The 2002 season was the Minnesota Vikings' 42nd in the National Football League, and the first under head coach Mike Tice.

The Vikings lost their opening game in Chicago 27–23 after surrendering a 20–10 halftime lead, and ended up going 0–4 before their bye week.

Results improved after the bye, but they ultimately went 6–6 in their remaining games, including a three-game winning streak to end the season.

They finished the season with a 6–10 record and missed the playoffs for the second year in a row.

Second-year running back Michael Bennett enjoyed a successful year, rushing for 1,296 yards, resulting in a Pro Bowl selection at the end of the season.

After losing Cris Carter to retirement, Randy Moss had a career-high 106 receptions, but only had 7 touchdowns.