Rob Kleifield

Sam Darnold ranks top six among quarterbacks in passing yards (3,776), touchdown passes (32), passer rating (105.4) and yards per attempt (8.2). Aaron Jones, Sr., ranks ninth among running backs in yards from scrimmage (1,394); Justin Jefferson owns the second-most receiving yards (1,387) and fourth-most touchdown catches (10). The stars have shined on defense, as well. Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel are 2 of 10 players this season responsible for 10-plus sacks. They also rank in the top six in tackles for losses. Byron Murphy, Jr.'s six interceptions trail only Green Bay's Xavier McKinney and Detroit's Kerby Joseph, and a handful of others – Blake Cashman, Joshua Metellus – are invaluable.

Sam Darnold's career Renaissance has transcended into a full-fledged MVP-esque season.

Voters love a narrative arc with this award, and Darnold certainly has a story to sell. The former third overall pick was labeled a bust after flaming out with the Jets and Panthers. He was considered a consolation prize at best, a placeholder at worst, when the Vikings signed him to a one-year, $10 million contract in free agency. As a result, the Vikings were forecast to be languishing at the bottom of the NFC North, not in prime position for the top spot in the NFL's toughest division with one game to go.

Alec Lewis of The Athletic conversed with 10 newcomers, ranging from the leader of Minnesota's scout defense, Bobby McCain, to a defender named to his first Pro Bowl, to visualize Jefferson's humble stardom.

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GLENDALE, Ariz. — Tears meshed with eye black on his cheeks as Joshua Metellus discussed brotherhood.

More than 20 Vikings players are about two months away from hitting the open market.

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