March 10, 2026, 11:53 p.m. CT
The Minnesota Vikings haven’t been big spenders during the “legal tampering” period, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t try to snag one of the higher-profile free agents on the market.
Running back Travis Etienne agreed to a four-year, $52 million deal with the New Orleans Saints on Monday. However, Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported the Vikings and Denver Broncos were also interested in Etienne.
That report aligns with what Star Tribune beat writer Ben Goessling shared on KFAN Tuesday. In regard to acquiring a running back this offseason, Goessling told Paul Allen, “To find lightning to Jordan Mason’s thunder is probably their approach there.”
Mason ran 159 times for 758 yards and six touchdowns in 2025, but he needs another reliable back to help spell him on the field. Minnesota will officially release Aaron Jones on Wednesday, and although Zavier Scott is the only other running back under contract.
Perhaps the Vikings didn’t want to allocate that much money to a running back who would split carries. But they were interested in Etienne, meaning they are likely to add a formidable back either later in free agency or in the draft.
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