After several close calls, the Minnesota Vikings finally lost their first game, and now panic is spreading throughout the fan base. But Brian Flores still leads the NFL’s best defense, and there’s plenty of talent on offense to get this group back on track. But again, it’s not like all hope is lost for the 6-1 team that’s currently leading the NFL’s best division.

If anything, the Vikings’ first loss helped expose some needs that first-year general manager and his team are likely more closely evaluating ahead of the Nov. 10 NFL trade deadline. But which players/positions should the Vikings target? Here are a few ideas.

Grover Stewart

The Indianapolis Colts already traded one veteran defensive tackle in DeForest Buckner. The former Pro Bowler netted them a fourth-round pick in 2027. Yet, there’s another veteran DT the Colts could trade next: Grover Stewart. The 33-year-old is on an expiring contract and won’t be around by the time the Colts are competitive again, yet the run-stuffer could go chase a chance to reach the playoffs while playing a key role on Brian Flores’ defensive line. With the Vikings allowing 384 rushing yards in the past two weeks, it’s clear that they need to make some changes, and Stewart may provide an easy solution. Plus, he wouldn’t cost a fourth-round pick as Buckner did, but the price won’t be far off; perhaps a 2027 fifth plus a sixth or seventh in 2028 gets it done.

Amani Hooker

While he wasn’t a household name when the season kicked off, the Tennessee Titans safety should be now after intercepting Joe Burrow three times in Week 8. Amani Hooker, a Brooklyn Park, Minnesota native, would likely welcome the opportunity to play football in his home state again. Plus, the likely 2026 Pro Bowler could end up being a long-term replacement for Vikings legend Harrison Smith, who is in his final season of play. For now, Hooker will replace Theo Jackson in the Vikings’ safety rotation, and fans will quickly fall in love with his versatility and ability to impact both the rushing and passing games.

Kirk Cousins

With Kyler Murray still not looking fully comfortable in an offense that ranks 27th in scoring yet with a defense that ranks first, it’s time to consider everything, including replacing the starting QB. It’s uncommon for contenders to trade for a new quarterback in the middle of the season, but Kirk Cousins is uniquely equipped to pull it off, having played for Kevin O’Connell for two seasons and running the offense better than any other QB has in Minnesota since. While the Raiders may act like they don’t want to deal him, Fernando Mendoza is not only lurking in the shadows; he’s the future of Las Vegas football.

Jonathan Taylor

It’s obvious that coach O’Connell doesn’t completely trust the Vikings backfield, which is composed of Aaron Jones, Jordan Mason, and DeeJay Dallas. Each has their respective roles, but Jonathan Taylor is the type of talent who can wear multiple hats, delivering bone-crushing runs that make him a perfect fit near the goal line and in every other rushing scenario. The Vikings could keep utilizing Dallas’ intensity on special teams, Jones on passing downs, and Mason; well, he could get moved elsewhere or remain as an excellent insurance policy as the team’s leading rusher from 2025.