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Vikings 2007 season record: 8-8

1. Defensive End: For the second straight season Minnesota ranked No.1 in the league against the run. Still, the line will be without its 2007 sacks leader Kenechi Udeze (5.0) who unfortunately is out while battling leukemia.

Jared Allen, the reigning NFL sack leader, has been acquired via trade from Kansas City for the Vikings No.17 overall pick and both its third-round selections.

Allen, 26, is in the prime of his career and is a top tier pass rusher. However, it's often noted that the 6'6, 270 lbs lineman is guilty of over-pursing plays and occasionally roams out of position defending the run. Plus, Allen's arrival takes some pressure off back-up Erasmus James, whose recovering from a knee injury that landed him on the IR in December. And, while Jayme Mitchell brings speed from the end he isn't as efficient against the run. The team could use another high draft pick to build around Pro Bowlers Kevin and Pat Williams at the tackle positions.

2. Cornerback: While the Vikings dominated on run defense in 2007 they were dead last in pass defense. Secondary veterans Dwight Smith, Tank Williams and Michael Doss were all released this off-season. Marcus McCauley has turned into more of a special teams player and the versatile Charles Gordon could move from cornerback to safety. Adding a cornerback will also complement an ageing Antonio Winfield and leading tackler Cedric Griffin.

3. Wide Receiver: Bernard Berrian was signed away from division rival Chicago this off-season but, a more dynamic receiver is still needed for the team's 28th ranked passing offense in 2007. Back-up Sidney Rice saw limited time last year and suffered a late season ankle injury. Aundrae Allison matured last year as a return man having led the NFC in kick return average (28.7).

4. Safety: One safety spot is wide-open next to Pro Bowler Darren Sharper. Michael Boulware was signed after his release from Houston. Although, Boulware's production declined with the Texans as he failed to win a starting role and was limited to special teams. Madieu Williams comes over from Cincinnati with a lot of upside and the expectation he'll start next to Sharper. Still, the team is thin on its secondary depth chart.

5. Left Tackle: Bryant McKinnie has started every game but one in his five year career at left tackle. However, a suspension looms after McKinnie's Feb. 24 alleged brawl in a downtown-Miami nightclub. It's paramount the Vikings find a replacement for McKinnie to protect Tavaris Jackson's blind side. Chase Johnson is listed as McKinnie's replacement but, he was inactive for 15 games in 2007. Also, it wouldn't hurt to improve an offensive line that has two potential thousand yards backs (Adrian Peterson and Chestor Taylor) behind them.

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