Dallas Turner Poised for Breakout Season with Vikings

Analyst sees second-year linebacker taking on bigger role in 2026

Jan. 29, 2026 at 12:15pm

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The Minnesota Vikings' defense took a big step forward in 2025, with several young players emerging as key contributors. One of the most intriguing risers was linebacker Dallas Turner, who is expected to take on an even larger role in 2026 according to a PFF analyst.

Why it matters

Turner was a first-round pick for the Vikings in 2024, but struggled to find consistent playing time as a rookie. His breakout in the second half of 2025 suggests he could become a foundational piece of the Vikings' defense going forward, providing a boost to their pass rush and run defense.

The details

Turner stepped into a larger role in 2025 when veteran Andrew Van Ginkel was sidelined by injury, and he thrived in the increased snaps. From Weeks 10-18, he racked up 24 pressures and 7 sacks, ranking 16th among qualified edge rushers in PFF pass-rush grade. He also showed improvement in run defense, making him a more viable three-down player.

  • Turner was 21 years old when the Vikings drafted him in 2024.
  • In 2025, Turner appeared in all 17 games, making 10 starts.
  • Turner will turn 23 years old next month.

The players

Dallas Turner

A second-year linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings who emerged as a key contributor to their defense in 2025.

Andrew Van Ginkel

A veteran linebacker for the Vikings who was slowed by injury in 2025, allowing Turner to take on a larger role.

Jonathan Greenard

Another Vikings linebacker who operates primarily as a designated pass rusher, a role that suited Turner well in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Turner may have finally found his footing during the second half of this season. From Weeks 10 through 18, the former first-round pick racked up 24 pressures and seven sacks while ranking 16th among qualified edge rushers in PFF pass-rush grade (76.5). Turner also seemed to find further comfort in run defense, which could make him a more viable three-down player in 2026.”

— Dalton Wasserman, PFF Analyst

What’s next

Turner will once again compete for snaps with his two 2024 Pro Bowl teammates, Van Ginkel and Greenard, in 2026. However, the Vikings are expected to rotate their outside linebackers more to keep them fresh, which should allow Turner to take on an even larger share of the pass-rush snaps, particularly in obvious passing situations.

The takeaway

Dallas Turner's breakout in the second half of 2025 suggests he could be poised to become a foundational piece of the Vikings' defense in 2026 and beyond. His combination of physical tools and improved comfort in both pass rush and run defense make him an intriguing young player to watch as the Vikings look to build on their elite defensive performance from last season.