The NFL world has shown understandable skepticism about the Minnesota Vikings' start to the 2026 season. Brian Flores' defense has been one of the league's best, and the special teams unit has returned a punt for a touchdown and blocked a field goal, showing its own dominance.
Minnesota's offense lagged for almost four weeks. Kyler Murray was knocked out three drives into the season opener, then had to settle into the offense in Week 3 after Justin Jefferson left the game after the first drive with an ankle sprain.
However, Murray has grown more comfortable in Kevin O'Connell's system over the past five quarters. After finishing the Vikings' Week 4 win over the Dolphins by completing 13/14 passes, Murray connected on his first 12 passes in Sunday's
game against the Saints.
In Week 5, Murray finished 24/30 for 229 yards and a touchdown. He also showed his athleticism, scrambling seven times for 51 yards and earning an "A" grade from Bleacher Report's Brent Sobleski.
Murray understands the assignment when it comes to serving as the Vikings' starting quarterback: Get the ball to Jefferson. This growing rapport was punctuated by a touchdown connection in the back of the end zone with three New Orleans Saints defenders in the vicinity.
"I didn't necessarily see that two-by-two box in the back corner of the end zone that Kyler put that ball into," coach Kevin O'Connell told reporters. "But I will say this. His trust is something. And it is Justin Jefferson."
The Vikings are 5-0, facing the Lions, Bills, Packers, and 49ers in their next five games. Minnesota's defense will show up and give the team a chance. If Murray can keep building on his recent play, the Vikings could not only survive the rough stretch but also show they can hang with the league's elite teams.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: What grade did Kyler Murray earn in Week 5?
