The Minnesota Vikings have been relatively quiet during the "legal tampering" period, but that doesn't mean they weren't in the mix for one of the top free agents available.
Running back Travis Etienne inked a four-year, $52 million deal with the New Orleans Saints on Monday. Reports from Dianna Russini of The Athletic suggest that both the Vikings and the Denver Broncos showed interest in Etienne, indicating they were in the hunt for his signature.
This aligns with insights shared by Star Tribune beat writer Ben Goessling on KFAN. Goessling mentioned to Paul Allen that the Vikings are likely looking for a dynamic complement to Jordan Mason in their backfield. Mason, who posted 758 yards and six touchdowns on 159 carries in 2025, could benefit from a partner to share the workload.
With Minnesota set to release Aaron Jones on Wednesday, and Zavier Scott being the only other running back under contract, it's clear the Vikings are in search of additional firepower in their running game. Although they might have balked at the hefty price tag for a back who would share carries, their interest in Etienne signals a strong intention to bolster their backfield, possibly through free agency or the draft.