This is a "prove-it" year for the Vikings — one that could either reinforce the direction in which they are heading or lead to sweeping changes.
But not everyone has an equal amount at stake. The question, then, is this: Which Vikings player has the most to prove in 2019?
First take: Michael Rand
With strictly players in mind, I have to say it's the biggest of the big fish: Kirk Cousins. He played like a top-10 quarterback for the first half of last season. But he faded as the competition improved, the offensive line fell apart and disarray consumed the scheme in general.
If the Vikings can deliver more cohesiveness and talent on the offensive line while presenting a consistent system tailored to Cousins' skills, there will be no excuses. He'll either need to deliver a season worthy of his $84 million guaranteed contract, or the Vikings will need to think about their options in 2020 and beyond.
First take: Andrew Krammer, Vikings writer
Beyond Cousins, I have a candidate on either side of the ball in running back Dalvin Cook and linebacker Anthony Barr. Cook is elusive and game-breaking when healthy, but that has only happened for parts of 15 games in two NFL seasons. Rick Spielman used a third-round pick on Alexander Mattison for two reasons — a priority to run the ball and Cook's durability issues.
Expectations should be raised even more for Barr, now the highest-paid 4-3 outside linebacker in football. He is steady but has lacked game-changing plays.