Dallas Turner moves into a vital role for the Vikings, fulfilling their vision from the 2024 draft
The video crew the Minnesota Vikings had in their draft room for behind-the-scenes content captured a memorable reaction from coach Kevin O'Connell in 2024, when he widened his eyes and spun around in his chair upon being pleasantly surprised that a trade had been made to move up six spots in the first round for Dallas Turner. Turner's performance in training camp this summer after a strong…
Eagan, Minnesota (AP) — During the 2024 draft, Minnesota Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell was visibly thrilled when the team traded up six spots in the first round to acquire Dallas Turner. The third-year edge rusher has proven to be a valuable addition to the defense, with O'Connell stating that he now holds total ownership of the defense.
Turner's impressive performance in training camp, where he had 6½ sacks in his last eight games, has not gone unnoticed. His ability to beat blocks and reach the quarterback has earned praise from teammates Andrew Van Ginkel and Jonathan Greenard, both of whom were Pro Bowl picks in 2024. Turner's importance to the defense became apparent when Van Ginkel and Greenard both missed five games due to injuries last season, allowing Turner to step up and fill in for Greenard late in the season as a more traditional pass rusher.
With the team feeling confident in Turner's readiness for full-time action, rookie edge rusher Christian Darrisaw predicts a special year for Turner, who has bulked up without sacrificing his speed.
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