Minnesota Vikings Position Competitions: Defense

The Minnesota Vikings are a week into training camp. From the observations and reports of others, here’s how I’m seeing the competitions at the team’s defensive positions.

Defensive Line

Jonathan Allen

Harrison Phillips

Javon Hargrave

Jalen Redmond

Levi Drake Rodriguez 

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins

Taki Taimani

Elijah Williams

Alexander Musch Williams

Jonathan Harris

Travis Bell

If it were up to me, I’d try finding a way to keep nearly all of these players on the roster. After an aggressive offseason that saw the Vikings add Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, I’ve been thrilled with the depth of this group. An interesting aspect of the defensive linemen, after starters Allen, Hargrave, and Harrison Phillips, they are all late-round and no-round picks. Despite being somewhat disrespected during their respective drafts, each brings intriguing skills. In my opinion, the defensive line competition is the most interesting of training camp. When it’s all said and done this summer, I believe the top six will be the six on the roster. I find that frustrating because I really want to see Taki Taimani, Elijah Williams, and Alexander Williams on the roster. 

Outside Linebacker

Jonathan Greenard

Andrew Van Ginkel

Dallas Turner

Bo Richter

Gabriel Murphy

Tyler Batty

Chaz Chambliss

Brian Flores said in a training camp press conference that the Vikings have three starting outside linebackers in Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Dallas Turner. Many Vikings observers were disappointed in Turner’s rookie season. He didn’t get the snaps many hoped for a simple reason. Greenard and Van Ginkel. I believe Turner’s second season will be a revelation. Those skeptical observers will see the player they hoped to see as a rookie. Actually, they’ll see a player much better than the one they expected. Bo Richter and Gabriel Murphy are the easy favorites to complete the group but Tyler Batty could make the final decision difficult. 

Inside Linebacker

Blake Cashman

Ivan Pace Jr.

Eric Wilson

Kobe King

Brian Asamoah II

Austin Keys

Dorian Mausi

The biggest linebacker question is whether the Vikings keep five. The top four are pretty much locks. Can Brian Asamoah II force the team to keep a fifth?

Cornerback

Byron Murphy Jr.

Isaiah Rodgers

Jeff Okudah

Mekhi Blackmon

Dwight McGlothern

Zemaiah Vaughn

Reddy Steward

Ambry Thomas

Kahlef Hailassie

Keenan Garber

Cornerback is right behind defensive line among the Vikings most interesting training camp competitions. 

The top four feel secure. Dwight McGlothern continues to prove that his performance last summer as an undrafted rookie was no fluke. Last year, he was competing for a roster spot. This year, he’s competing for playing time. Undrafted this year, Zemaiah Vaughn is doing what McGlothern did last year. These two unheralded youngsters are doing their best to blow up the pre-training camp worries over the Vikings cornerback depth. As for the top of the depth chart, Byron Murphy Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers are the starters. I’m often overly optimistic when it comes to the Vikings but I wouldn’t be surprised if Murphy and Rodgers emerge as one of the league’s best corner duos. With this Vikings defense and these Vikings coaches, Jeff Okudah has perhaps his best opportunity to become the player he was drafted to be. After being the third overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Okudah is now with his fourth team. Mekhi Blackmon entered training camp last year competing for a starting role. He tore his ACL in the first practice. He’s healthy now and again competing for significant playing time. So many have questioned this group. I really like the group’s potential. 

Safety

Harrison Smith

Joshua Metellus

Theo Jackson

Jay Ward

Tavierre Thomas

Gervarrius Owens

Mishael Powell

The Vikings safety group is pretty easy to project. The first four are locks and make the group a versatile strength. Tavierre Thomas was signed this offseason for his work on special teams. He makes the roster with that as his primary role. Anything he provides on defense is extra. 

Minnesota Vikings Position Competitions: Offense

The Minnesota Vikings are a week into training camp. From the observations and reports of others, here’s how I’m seeing the competitions at the team’s offensive positions.

Quarterback

J.J. McCarthy

Sam Howell

Brett Rypien

Max Brosmer

There is no competition. Well, there is a competition for backup quarterback but the Vikings quarterback job belongs to J.J. McCarthy. I have no worries about his readiness. The Vikings traded for Sam Howell during the draft to be the backup. From those that have watched the practices, he’s struggled. Perhaps due to his aggressive, single season as the starter for a 4-13 Washington Commanders team and the fact that he’s now on a talented, well-coached team, my worries for Howell as a backup are low. As the Commanders starter, he had intriguing moments. I believe that he has skills with which Kevin O’Connell, Josh McCown, and Jordan Traylor can work. Despite the early training camp struggles, I still see Howell as the backup this season. If Brett Rypien outplays Howell through training camp and in preseason games, so be it. My main concern about the Vikings quarterback position is whether two or three are kept on the active roster. In order to maximize space for other positions, I’d be tempted to keep only two quarterbacks on the 53-man roster and try to stash two on the practice squad. 

Running Back

Aaron Jones

Jordan Mason

C.J. Ham - fullback

Ty Chandler

Zavier Scott

Tre Stewart

The top three players are safe. Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason should form an impactful running duo. C.J. Ham supplements the backfield as the fullback, plays a key special teams role, and provides on- and off-the-field leadership. The competition is for the third running back role. Zavier Scott is the contender that intrigues me most. For some reason, I’m always intrigued by running backs that have a history as a receiver. Scott had that in college. He was signed to the practice squad after being cut by the Indianapolis Colts last season. Since that happened in September and he wasn’t activated during the season, I’ve yet to see him play for the Vikings. From what I’ve heard from training camp observers, it sounds like Scott might be the leading contender to be RB3. His receiving experience and abilities could be the difference.

Receiver

Justin Jefferson

Jordan Addison

Jalen Nailor

Tai Felton

Rondale Moore

Tim Jones

Lucky Jackson

Jeshaun Jones

Thayer Thomas

Silas Bolden

Dontae Fleming

Myles Price

Robert Lewis

The top four players are safe. In my opinion, Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison are the league’s best receiver duo. Jalen Nailor is a strong WR3 and Tai Felton is an intriguing rookie. The competition for the final two receiver spots is one of the most interesting of training camp. While the Vikings could keep only five receivers, return responsibilities and the competition will probably have the team keeping six. I’ve liked Rondale Moore for one of the roster spots since he was signed. I believe that his quickness and versatility will add another dimension to the playbook. He’s coming back from a torn ACL. From a distance, his quickness and shiftiness are back. After a year on the practice squad, Lucky Jackson and Jeshaun Jones look like players ready for a role on the 53-man roster. I can easily see one of them on the roster. The return job will impact receiver roster decisions. My preference is that the job goes to a receiver that provides something on offense. That’s the reason that I hope Felton or Moore secures it. If Silas Bolden separates himself from the contenders for the return job, so be it. The Vikings must get better at returns. If that means using a roster spot solely for returns, I’m fine with it. 

Tight End

T.J. Hockenson

Josh Oliver

Ben Yurosek

Gavin Bartholemew 

Bryson Nesbit

Giovanni Ricci

Currently, the Vikings tight end group is pretty straightforward. T.J. Hockenson and Josh Oliver are locks and a top tier tight end duo. With the number of two-tight end formations in the team’s offense, TE3 is a key role. Sixth-round pick Gavin Bartholomew and priority undrafted free agents Ben Yurosek and Bryson Nesbit entered offseason work and training camp on equal footing. A back injury has kept Bartholomew off the field and has set him back in the competition. He may not recover as Yurosek has taken the lead in the competition and might be closing in on ending it. 

Offensive Line

Christian Darrisaw

Donovan Jackson

Ryan Kelly

Will Fries

Brian O’Neill

Justin Skule

Blake Brandel

Michael Jurgens

Walter Rouse

Logan Brown

Joe Huber

Zeke Correll

Henry Byrd

Vershon Lee

Leroy Watson IV

Marcellus Johnson

The only training camp issue with the offensive line has been availability. Christian Darrisaw is coming back from a midseason knee injury. Will Fries is coming back from an early season broken leg. Darrisaw is way ahead in his rehab schedule but he’s not quite all-the-way-back. Fries is back but being eased into full-time action. After an offseason focused on overhauling the interior, the Vikings offensive line finally projects as a team strength. With the starting group getting much stronger, the skill level of the backups has increased. In past years, the team’s current backups were competing for starting roles. The top nine offensive linemen are set. If the Vikings keep 10 on the active roster, priority undrafted free agents Logan Brown is probably the 10th lineman. Otherwise, I can easily see Brown, Joe Huber, Zeke Correll, and perhaps others on the practice squad. I can’t recall ever seeing the Vikings offensive line group looking this solid. 

Minnesota Vikings Training Camp Thoughts

As Minnesota Vikings Training Camp approached, some of the players and competitions I was most excited to see were the following:

Jeff Okudah

Dallas Turner

Rondale Moore

Jordan Mason

Isaiah Rodgers

Donovan Jackson

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins

And, of course, J.J. McCarthy

The Vikings are approaching the completion of their first week of training camp practices. Most importantly, the team has finally had a practice in pads. Until pads, practices can be more fluff than substance. The observations from those that were lucky enough to be there revealed what often happens when pads are finally added to the process. The defense dominated. The defensive front had their way with an offensive line still missing Christian Darrisaw and Will Fries full time. From all accounts, Jonathan Allen, Javon Hargrave, Jonathan Greenard, and Dallas Turner were a rampaging, menacing bunch. They made things difficult for J.J. McCarthy and the quarterbacks. Training camp evaluations can be a puzzling thing. When the defense dominates, should we be concerned about the offense? When the offense has their way, should we be concerned about the defense? For me, I’m thrilled over the play of the defense and I see it as a needed learning experience for the offense and the young quarterbacks. Moving forward, McCarthy will be better for it. 

As for me, a fan from afar, moving forward, some of the players and competitions I’m most excited to see are the following:

Jeff Okudah

Zemaiah Vaughn

Defensive line depth/rotation

Kobe King

Jay Ward

Rondale Moore

Lucky Jackson

Silas Bolden and the returners

Jordan Mason 

Zavier Scott

I’m not sure why I even attempt to single out players that I’m excited to see. I’m excited to see all of them. I want to hear about all of the competitions and the players emerging from them. Any player stepping up is a good thing for the team. I just want to see the team come together. 

Greatest Comebacks For Each NFL Team

Random NFL graphics floating across social media often catches my attention. This one did that recently. It’s a list of the greatest comebacks for each of the NFL’s 32 teams.

Greatest Comebacks For Each NFL Team

33: Minnesota Vikings: Indianapolis Colts - 12/17/2022

32: Buffalo Bills: Houston Oilers (Tennessee Titans) - 1/13/1993*

28: Indianapolis Colts: Kansas City Chiefs - 1/4/2014*

28: San Francisco 49ers: New Orleans Saints - 12/7/1980

27: Jacksonville Jaguars: Los Angeles Chargers - 1/14/2023*

25: Cleveland Browns: Tennessee Titans - 10/5/2014

25: St. Louis (Arizona) Cardinals: Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 11/8/1987

25: New England Patriots: Atlanta Falcons - 2/5/2017*

24: Philadelphia Eagles: Washington Redskins (Commanders) - 10/27/1946

24: Detroit Lions: Baltimore Colts (Indianapolis) - 10/20/1957

24: Denver Broncos: Boston (New England) Patriots - 10/23/1960

24: Miami Dolphins: New England Patriots - 12/15/1974

24: Houston Oilers (Tennessee Titans): Cincinnati Bengals- 9/23/1979

24: Los Angeles (Oakland) Raiders: San Diego (Los Angeles) Chargers - 11/22/1982

24: Los Angeles Rams: Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 12/6/1992

24: Washington Redskins (Commanders): Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 10/25/2015

24: Kansas City Chiefs: Houston Texans - 1/12/2020*

23: Green Bay Packers: Los Angeles Rams - 9/12/1982

23: New York Jets: Miami Dolphins - 10/23/2000

21: New York Giants: Philadelphia Eagles - 12/2/1945

21: Pittsburgh Steelers: Chicago (Arizona) Cardinals - 10/11/1953

21: New Orleans Saints: San Francisco 49ers - 11/23/1969

21: Cincinnati Bengals: Seattle Seahawks - 9/6/1981

21: San Diego (Los Angeles) Chargers - 10/9/1983

21: Atlanta Falcons: New York Jets - 10/23/1983

21: Dallas Cowboys: New Orleans Saints - 10/21/1984

21: Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kansas City Chiefs - 11/2/2008

21: Baltimore Ravens: Arizona Cardinals - 10/30/2011

21: Houston Texans: San Diego (Los Angeles) - 9/9/2013

21: Seattle Seahawks: Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 11/2/2013

20: Chicago Bears: Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 10/25/1987

17: Carolina Panthers: Jacksonville Jaguars - 9/7/2003

* - Postseason Game

***

The second half of that Minnesota Vikings - Indianapolis Colts game was a beauty. 

Five of the 32 comebacks, including half of the eight greatest, were postseason games. One of those was Super Bowl LI. 

Five of the 32 comebacks came in the pre-Super Bowl era. Two occurred in the 1940s. 

The greatest comeback in the history of the Pittsburgh Steelers came against a Cardinals team that was still playing in Chicago. 

Each of the Cardinals three homes (Chicago, St. Louis, and Arizona) is represented on this list. 

The greatest loser is easily the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Five teams have had their greatest comeback against the Buccaneers. 

***

Now, it’s back to training camp watch. The Vikings are in pads today!

Metellus Signs!

The Minnesota Vikings have had an active and efficient business. Their last bit of business was signing versatile defensive weapon Joshua Metellus to a contract extension. Not only was the versatile defender on the last year of his contract, he’d outplayed the value of that contract over the last two years playing for defensive coordinator Brian Flores. On and off the field, Metellus has emerged as one of the most valuable players on the roster. The Vikings had to keep him and he wanted to stay in Minnesota. A contract extension had to get done and it got done yesterday. The Vikings and Metellus agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $36 million with a maximum value of $42 million. It includes $25 million in guarantees. The positional versatility of Metellus is a great thing on the football field but it must’ve made for difficult contract negotiations. All player contract negotiations start with the going rates of contracts for players at that position. There’s no other defensive player in the league that plays all over a defense like Metellus. NFL Films caught a post-game conversation between Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Robert Spillane and Metellus. Spillane asked Metellus “What are you?” He’s a special football player and the Vikings had to get this deal done. Thankfully, team and player got it done. 

Joshua Metellus has had an interesting NFL career. I didn’t know much about him entering the 2020 NFL Draft. The Vikings had Harrison Smith and an emerging Anthony Harris so safety wasn’t a significant need. I had to do a bit of research to familiarize myself with this Michigan safety the Vikings had just selected in the sixth round. The sentence in a draft profile of his that’s stuck with me is: “When he gets on the field, he isn’t coming off.” He sounded like a player that plays well beyond his modest athletic traits. With COVID, 2020 was a difficult time for everyone. Navigating that time was difficult for a sixth-round rookie trying to make an NFL roster. Metellus had no preseason games to show what he could do. He was cut out of training camp but was brought back after the start of the season. It was a humbling start. Playing in 15 games that first season, he gradually established himself as a valuable special teams player. That role grew over his first three seasons and his value to the team earned him a “C” on his jersey. It also earned him a second contract in 2023. It was a decent special teams deal that he immediately outplayed under a new defensive coordinator. Brian Flores took the valuable, versatile special teams player and turned him into a defensive chess piece that he could move all over the field. In many ways, the versatility of Metellus became the centerpiece of the Vikings defense. In two seasons, he’s become invaluable. But, “what is he?” That’s a question that opposing offenses are going to be trying to answer for at least the next four seasons. 

Congratulations Joshua Metellus! The new deal is very much deserved. You earned it. 

First Round Signing Tracker: And Then There Was None

The rookie holdout that felt like it could last for a while has finally come to an end. The Cincinnati Bengals and first-round pick Shemar Stewart reached an agreement on his rookie contract. Coming to an agreement with the notoriously penny-pinching Mike Brown and Bengals management is always a difficult thing. Trey Hendrickson probably agrees. Rookie contracts are basically scripted the moment a player is selected in the draft. There isn’t much left to negotiate. The Bengals can find something and usually comes down to guaranteed money and the words surrounding its distribution. With the signing of the Stewart, all of the players selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft have signed their first NFL contract. 

And then there was none. 

1.   Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami - Signed

2.   Jacksonville Jaguars: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado - Signed

3.   New York Giants: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State - Signed

4.   New England Patriots: Will Campbell, OT, LSU - Signed

5.   Cleveland Browns: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan - Signed

6.   Las Vegas Raiders: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State - Signed

7.   New York Jets: Amand Membou, OT, Missouri - Signed

8.   Carolina Panthers: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona - Signed

9.   New Orleans Saints: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas - Signed

10. Chicago Bears: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan - Signed

11. San Francisco 49ers: Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia - Signed

12. Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Booker, G, Alabama - Signed

13. Miami Dolphins: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan - Signed

14. Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State - Signed

15. Atlanta Falcons: Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia - Signed

16. Arizona Cardinals: Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi - Signed

17. Cincinnati Bengals: Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M - Finally Signed

18. Seattle Seahawks: Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State - Signed

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State - Signed

20. Denver Broncos: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas - Signed

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon - Signed

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina - Signed

23. Green Bay Packers: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas - Signed

24. Minnesota Vikings: Donovan Jackson, G, Ohio State - Signed

25. New York Giants: Jaxson Dart, QB, Mississippi - Signed

26. Atlanta Falcons: James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee - Signed

27. Baltimore Ravens: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia - Signed

28. Detroit Lions: Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State - Signed

29. Washington Commanders: Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon - Signed

30. Buffalo Bills: Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky - Signed

31. Philadelphia Eagles: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama - Signed

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State - Signed

***

32 of the 32 players selected in the first round have finally singed their first NFL contract. 

Now, the only remaining unsigned draft pick is Cleveland Browns second round pick Quinshon Judkins. With his current off-the-field issues, who knows when his NFL career might get going? 

Minnesota Vikings Jersey Choices

The Minnesota Vikings announced some special jersey games. Thankfully, we’ll be seeing the return of the beautiful Classic jerseys and the incredibly beautiful Winter Warrior jerseys. It’s a great thing. 

Classic Jersey Games:

Week 2: Atlanta Falcons - 9/14

Week 18: Green Bay Packers - TBD

Winter Warrior Game:

Week 17: Detroit Lions - 12/25

It’s going to be a beautiful Christmas.

With the announcement of those special jersey games came a reveal of the jerseys the Vikings will wear in every game. Including the preseason games.

Preseason #1: vs Houston: Primary Purple

Preseason #2: vs New England: Primary Purple

Preseason #3: at Tennessee: Primary White

Week 1: at Chicago: Primary White

Week 2: vs Atlanta: Classic Purple

Week 3: vs Cincinnati: Primary Purple

Week 4: at Pittsburgh (Dublin): Primary White

Week 5: at Cleveland (London): Primary White

Week 6: Bye

Week 7: vs Philadelphia: Primary Purple

Week 8: at Los Angeles Chargers: Primary White - I’ll be wearing a Classic jersey at this game!

Week 9: at Detroit: Primary White

Week 10: vs Baltimore: Primary Purple

Week 11: vs Chicago: Primary Purple

Week 12: at Green Bay: Primary White

Week 13: at Seattle: Primary White

Week 14: vs Washington: Primary Purple

Week 15: at Dallas: Primary White

Week 16: at New York Giants: Primary White

Week 17: vs Detroit: Winter Warrior 

Week 18: vs Green Bay: Classic Purple

The excitement for the 2025 Minnesota Vikings season just keeps building. 

Throwback Thursday: Spec Sanders

This Flicker was originally posted March 1, 2012. 

Orban Eugene Sanders was born on January 26, 1918. Everyone saw that mass of freckles on young Orban's face and started calling him "Spec." The name just stuck.

Buddy Young, who saw a lot of football as a player and later as a league official, once described Spec Sanders as being in a class with just a handful of other backs, including Jim Brown, Gale Sayers, Hugh McIlhenney and Lenny Moore. That's a pretty select group. All but Sanders are honored in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Sanders lost the early years of his career to World War II. His best years were in the All America Football Conference with the New York Yankees. So his efforts have mostly been ignored by the NFL. That's unfortunate as his 1947 season was one of the best ever. He led the AAFC with 231 carries, 114 points and his 18 rushing touchdowns was a professional record that stood until Jim Taylor rushed for 19 in 1962. His 1432 yards rushing established a record that stood until 1958 when Jim Brown ran for 1527 yards. Sanders could throw the ball as well, completing 93 passes for 1442 yards and 14 more touchdowns. He also returned kicks, taking one kickoff back for another score. Although he was used sparingly on defense, he intercepted three passes. He also averaged 42.1 yards on 46 punts. In a game against the Chicago Rockets, Sanders gained 250 yards rushing, a mark that went untouched for more than 25 years. He was removed from the game after only three quarters. If he'd remained in the game, Adrian Peterson's 296 yards against the San Diego Chargers might still be looking up at Sanders. It was an incredible season. When viewing season statistics of this era, Spec Sanders' 1947 season is so outlandish it strikes one as a misprint.

At a time when most players did a lot of things on the football field Sanders did everything better than pretty much everyone. His versatility might be matched only by the great Sammy Baugh.

Sanders suffered from knee woes and retired after the 1948 season. Despite playing only three of the league’s four seasons, he finished as the AAFC's second leading all-time rusher, leader in touchdowns, fourth in total points, and still found time to finish eighth in passing.

Sanders was lured out of retirement to play in the NFL in 1950 with a different but similarly named New York Yanks. Because of the knee problems, he opted to play only defense that year. In his one year in the NFL Sanders was named to the Pro Bowl after his record setting 13 interception season.

Spec Sanders had only a four year career with only one in the NFL. World War II and knee problems kept it brief. It's unfortunate that his three incredible years in the AAFC are largely forgotten. Those that saw Sanders play football never forgot him.

Minnesota Vikings Training Camp Is Here!

The 2025 Minnesota Vikings step on the TCO Performance Center fields for training camp this morning. It’s the team’s 65th training camp. It’s my 50-something training camp with this team. I’m not sure if any has been more anticipated and exciting.

So, what’s different about this training camp? 

It starts with a 22-year old quarterback. The Vikings haven’t had much luck finding a long-term, franchise quarterback to replace Fran Tarkenton. The Hall of Famer retired after the 1978 season. There’s been a legion of contenders for the “franchise” quarterback role. There’s always been something that’s kept each contender from becoming the “one.” J.J. McCarthy is the next one and might be the one with the best chance to succeed. On- and off-the-field, there’s something about this kid. I was sold before the Vikings made him the 10th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Despite losing his rookie season to injury, I’m even more sold now. 

The excitement around this team isn’t all about the young, unproven quarterback. The Vikings have had an offensive line problem for more than a decade. It’s been a clear problem and derailed some otherwise talented teams. For most of that time, the team’s decision-makers dabbled at improvements. A mid- to late-round guard here. A modest free agent tackle there. A position change? Why not? This offseason, there was no dabbling. The Vikings attacked the improvement of the offensive line. Blessed with an elite tackle duo, they focused on the interior of the line. They spent big free agent money on right guard Will Fries. They replaced their undersized center with bigger, experienced, established Ryan Kelly. He might be closer to the end of his strong career than the beginning but he’s the perfect center for a young quarterback that’s yet to take a regular season snap. The Vikings completed their overhaul of the line interior with the selection of left guard Donovan Jackson in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. No dabbling. The three players were high-end replacements to fix a long-term problem. On paper, this is the best Vikings offensive line in decades. The potential is there for them to be among the league’s best. 

The excitement around this team isn’t all about the young, unproven quarterback and the rebuilt offensive line. The Vikings defense has emerged as a strength under defensive coordinator Brian Flores. Despite all of the good things this defense has done, an interior pass rush has been lacking. It’s forced Flores and his coaches to lean on an often maniacal blitzing scheme. In addition to improving the offensive trenches, the Vikings prioritized improvements in the defensive trenches. Before free agency officially opened, defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave were signed. While Hargrave is on the wrong side of 30 and has been a personal dream free agent signing since he left the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019, he can still wreck an offense. The Vikings have accumulated an intriguing collection of late-round and no-round defensive line talent. The group is young and raw and hopefully ready. Surrounding Harrison Phillips with Allen and Hargrave allows the coaches to pepper a rotation with these youngsters. The Vikings defensive line competition is going to be one of the most interesting of training camp. 

The excitement around this team isn’t all about the young quarterback, the rebuilt offensive line, and intriguing, talented defensive line. The reasons for excitement around the 2025 Minnesota Vikings are many. 

Justin Jefferson

Jordan Addison

Harrison Smith

Jonathan Greenard

T.J. Hockenson

Byron Murphy Jr. 

Blake Cashman

Dallas Turner

Aaron Jones

Jordan Mason

Andrew Van Ginkel

Joshua Metellus

Isaiah Rodgers

Andrew Van Ginkel

Ivan Pace Jr.

Josh Oliver 

Will Reichard

Theo Jackson

Jalen Nailor

A couple new players that have me excited about their potential:

Jeff Okudah

Rondale Moore

It’s an exciting time. 

Vikings Reporting!

On Sunday, 40 players reported to TCO Performance Center for 2025 Minnesota Vikings Training Camp. The 40 players were the team’s quarterbacks, rookies, and a handful of injured players, and a few other veterans. 

Gavin Bartholomew

Tyler Batty

Silas Bolden

Max Brosmer

Logan Brown

Henry Byrd

Chaz Chambliss

Oscar Chapman

Zeke Correll

Christian Darrisaw

Tai Felton

Dontae Fleming

Will Fries

Keenan Garber

Sam Howell

Joe Huber

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins

Donovan Jackson

Marcellus Johnson

Jeshaun Jones

Austin Keys

Kobe King

Vershon Lee

Robert Lewis

Dorian Mausi

J.J. McCarthy

Rondale Moore

Bryson Nesbit

Mishael Powell

Myles Price

Brett Rypien

Zavier Scott

Reddy Steward

Tre Stewart

Thayer Thomas

Max Tooley

Zemaiah Vaughn

Alexander Williams

Elijah Williams

Ben Yurosek

Sixth-round tight end Gavin Bartholomew and undrafted outside linebacker Chaz Chambliss were placed on the PUP list. They will continue to rehab their injuries before they cleared for practice. Perhaps it’s premature but it feels promising that left tackle Christian Darrisaw, right guard Will Fries, and receiver Rondale Moore weren’t placed on the PUP list. 

Today, the remaining 51 players report for training camp. Minnesota Vikings 2025 Training Camp is on. 

Second Round Signing Tracker

Draft pick-signing attention is usually reserved for the players selected in the first round. Other than the Cincinnati Bengals and Shemar Stewart, that work was completed last week. This year, the second round is the round with the drama. Thanks mostly to the Cleveland Browns and the Houston Texans giving fully guaranteed contracts to Carson Schwesinger and Jayden Higgins, respectively, the second-round signing progress has been stalled for more than a month. Training camps opening across the league has jump-started those signings in recent days. So, here’s a look at the signing status of the players selected in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. 

Second Round Signing Tracker

33. Cleveland Browns: Carson Schwesinger, LB, UCLA - Signed

34. Houston Texans: Jayden Higgins, WR, Iowa State - Signed

35. Seattle Seahawks: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina - Signed

36. Cleveland Browns: Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State

37. Miami Dolphins: Jonah Savaiinaea, G, Arizona - Signed

38. New England Patriots: TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State - Signed

39. Chicago Bears: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri - Signed

40. New Orleans Saints: Tyler Shough, QB, Louisville - Signed

41. Buffalo Bills: T.J. Sanders, DT, South Carolina - Signed

42. New York Jets: Mason Taylor, TE, LSU - Signed

43. San Francisco 49ers: Alfred Collins, DT, Texas - Signed

44. Dallas Cowboys: Donovan Ezeiruaku, Edge, Boston College - Signed

45. Indianapolis Colts: JT Tuimoloau, Edge, Ohio State - Signed

46. Los Angeles Rams: Terrance Ferguson, TE, Oregon - Signed

47. Arizona Cardinals: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

48. Houston Texans: Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota - Signed

49. Cincinnati Bengals: Demetrius Knight Jr., LB, South Carolina - Signed

50. Seattle Seahawks: Elijah Arroyo, TE, Miami - Signed

51. Carolina Panthers: Nic Scourton, Edge, Texas A&M - Signed

52. Tennessee Titans: Oluwafemi Oladejo, Edge, UCLA 

53. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame - Signed

54. Green Bay Packers: Anthony Belton, OT, North Carolina State - Signed

55. Los Angeles Chargers: Tre Harris, WR, Mississippi - Signed

56. Chicago Bears: Ozzy Trapilo, OT, Boston College - Signed

57. Detroit Lions: Tate Ratledge, G, Georgia - Signed

58. Las Vegas Raiders: Jack Bech, WR, TCU - Signed

59. Baltimore Ravens: Mike Green, Edge, Marshall - Signed

60. Denver Broncos: RJ Harvey, RB, Central Florida - Signed

61. Washington Commanders: Trey Amos, CB, Mississippi - Signed

62. Chicago Bears: Shemar Turner, DT, Texas A&M- Signed

63. Kansas City Chiefs: Omarr Norman-Lott, DT, Tennessee - Signed

64. Philadelphia Eagles: Andrew Mukuba, S, Texas 

***

A week ago, only two second-round picks had signed their first NFL contracts. First-round picks had been getting fully guaranteed deals for years. Agents for the second-round picks have been haggling for the same deal. The Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans caved to those demands with Carson Schwesinger and Jayden Higgins, respectively. That started the months-long standoff with every other second-round pick. Training camp is a natural deadline for rookie deals. As camps approached teams started offering and agents started accepting a significant percentage of the contracts guaranteed. Now, only four second-round picks remain unsigned. 

Minnesota Vikings 91-Man Roster

The Minnesota Vikings will welcome quarterbacks, rookies, and perhaps an assortment of veterans to TCO Performance Center for the start of the team’s 65th training camp. The remainder of the team will report on Tuesday. While it’s just reporting day, Minnesota Vikings Training Camp 2025 is here. 

In advance of the camp fun, here’s another look at the Minnesota Vikings 91-man Roster. There are many pundits out there that believe that the team is a little lacking in the cornerback department. I disagree. I can’t wait to see the group prove that they are just fine. I believe that Byron Murphy Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers will emerge as one of the league’s better corner duos. I believe that Mekhi Blackmon, Jeff Okudah, Dwight McGlothern, Zemaiah Vaugh, Ambry Thomas, Reddy Steward, whoever comes out of the camp competition will provide quality and versatile depth. 

Minnesota Vikings 91-Man Roster (91)

Offense (45)

Quarterbacks (4)

  9 J.J McCarthy

  8 Sam Howell

19 Brett Rypien

12 Max Brosmer

Running Backs (5)

33 Aaron Jones

27 Jordan Mason

32 Ty Chandler

36 Zavier Scott

38 Tre Stewart

Fullback (1)

30 C.J. Ham

Receivers (13)

18 Justin Jefferson

  3 Jordan Addison

  1 Jalen Nailor

  4 Rondale Moore

13 Tai Felton

14 Tim Jones

81 Lucky Jackson

82 Jeshaun Jones

89 Thayer Thomas

83 Silas Bolden

19 Dontae Fleming

31 Myles Price

85 Robert Lewis

Tight Ends (6)

87 T.J. Hockenson

84 Josh Oliver

86 Gavin Bartholomew

48 Ben Yurosek

46 Bryson Nesbit

85 Giovanni Ricci

Offensive Linemen (16)

71 Christian Darrsisaw

74 Donovan Jackson

78 Ryan Kelly

76 Will Fries

75 Brian O’Neill

64 Blake Brandel

78 Walter Rouse

65 Michael Jurgens

67 Justin Skule

62 Logan Brown

60 Joe Huber

66 Vershon Lee

79 Marcellus Johnson

72 Leroy Watson IV

68 Henry Byrd

63 Zeke Correll

Defense (42)

Defensive Linemen (11)

97 Harrison Phillips

93 Jonathan Allen

98 Javon Hargrave

61 Jalen Redmond

50 Levi Drake Rodriguez

94 Taki Taimani 

90 Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins

99 Alexander Williams

69 Elijah Williams

92 Jonathan Harris

95 Travis Bell 

Outside Linebackers (7)

58 Jonathan Greenard

43 Andrew Van Ginkel

15 Dallas Turner

59 Gabriel Murphy

98 Bo Richter

96 Tyler Batty

57 Chaz Chambliss

Inside Linebackers (8)

  0 Ivan Pace Jr.

51 Blake Cashman

55 Eric Wilson

  6 Brian Asamoah

41 Kobe King

45 Max Tooley

52 Dorian Mausi

56 Austin Keys     

Cornerbacks (11)

  7 Byron Murphy Jr.

  5 Mekhi Blackmon

  2 Isaiah Rodgers

21 Jeff Okudah

29 Dwight McGlothern

37 Tavierre Thomas

23 Ambry Thomas

20 Reddy Steward 

25 Kahlef Hailassie

35 Keenan Garber

34 Zemaiah Vaughn     

Safeties (5)

22 Harrison Smith

44 Josh Metellus

26 Theo Jackson

20 Jay Ward

40 Mishael Powell

Special Teams (4)

Kickers (1)

16 Will Reichard

Punter (1)

17 Ryan Wright

91 Oscar Chapman

Long Snapper (1)

42 Andrew DePaola

***

The NFL’s offseason roster limit is 90 players. The Vikings have an international pathway exemption for Australian punter Oscar Chapman. He’s exempt from the 90-player roster limit. 

12 Minnesota Vikings Players I’m Most Excited To See

Minnesota Vikings Training Camp is within sight. I’m excited to see the progress and play of all 91 players on the roster. Here are 12 of the players I’m most excited to see. It was supposed to be 10 players but I couldn’t cut it to 10. 

12 Minnesota Vikings Players I’m Most Excited To See

12. Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, WRs

I’m always excited to see the league’s best, most technically skilled receiver duo. 

11. Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, DL

The Vikings selected only five players in the 2024 NFL Draft. I was thrilled with the selection of guard Donovan Jackson in the first round. I was intrigued with the selection of receiver Tai Felton in the third round. I’m excited about the selection of Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins in the fifth round. Georgia has sent a fleet of defensive linemen to the NFL. Several have been selected at the top of recent drafts. Three were selected in the first round of this past draft. Ingram-Dawkins might be a Day 3 steal. If he’d gone back to Georgia and entered the 2026 NFL Draft, he might’ve been a Day 1 pick. He’s a raw player with immense physical talent. He’s competing for a rotational role this year. He might be a franchise cornerstone player in a couple years. 

10. Theo Jackson, S

Camryn Bynum will be missed on and off the field. His departure was hardly a surprise when a player the quality of Theo Jackson has been waiting for his shot. Jackson was signed off the practice squad of the Tennessee Titans during the 2022 season. Ever since, he’s been making plays in practice and in his scattered game opportunities. Whenever a Vikings defensive player is asked about Jackson, they smile and say “he just makes plays.” As a Cal guy, I’m going to miss Bynum but I’m really looking forward to seeing Theo Jackson take his deserved and earned place in the Vikings defense. 

  9. T.J. Hockenson, TE

Last year, T.J. Hockenson spent the offseason, training camp, and early part of the season rehabbing his torn ACL. He did return to the field but he never quite looked like the player he was pre-injury. He will this season. 

  8. Jonathan Allen, DT

The Vikings defense directed by defensive coordinator Brian Flores has played above their talent level. The lack of an interior pass rushing threat has forced Flores and the defensive coaches to manufacture one with maniacal blitzing and schemes. Jonathan Allen adds an interior threat. 

  7. Javon Hargrave, DT

I’ve been a fan of Javon Hargrave since he was paired with Cam Heyward in Pittsburgh. I hoped that the Vikings could sign him in free agency in 2020. I hoped that the Vikings could sign him in free agency in 2023. They have him now. Better late than never. He may be 32 now but he can still wreck an offense. Hargrave and Jonathan Allen and Harrison Phillips will be a real fun defensive front. 

  6. Jordan Mason, RB

The Vikings were very active in free agency. Improvements to the offensive line and defensive line got most of the attention. The additions at cornerback were a highlight. The trade that brought Jordan Mason from the San Francisco 49ers was an under-the-radar move. Aaron Jones was terrific in his first season in Minnesota. His versatility was a significant boost for the offense. He was also much better at the start of the season than the end. Along with the improvements to the interior of the offensive line, Mason will add some power to the run game. The Vikings learned in Week 2 how difficult it is to get him on the ground. 

  5. The New Offensive Line Interior

The Vikings offensive line has been a serious weakness for more than a decade. In response, the team’s decision-makers annually dabbled at improvements. That dabbling did yield two elite tackles in Christian Darrisaw and Brian O’Neill but the interior has been closer to horrible than serviceable. This offseason, the team’s decision-makers attacked the improvement of the interior of the offensive line. Center Ryan Kelly and right guard were targeted in free agency. Left guard Donovan Jackson was selected in the first round. The five offensive linemen have yet to take a practice snap together. For now, improvements are all on paper. On paper, the offensive line looks like a team strength. I can not wait to see the offensive line, and the interior in particular, on the field. 

  4. Dallas Turner, OLB

While most people moaned about Dallas Turner’s lack of playing time during his rookie season, I focused on the talent that he flashed when he had opportunities. Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel were revelations last season. The opportunities for a rookie, no matter how talented, were few. In his second season, I believe that the defensive coaches will find a way to get Turner on the field often. 

  3. Jeff Okudah, CB

There once was a time when Jeff Okudah was one of the most talented corners to enter the league in recent years. There was an easy reason that he was the third pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. He was an outstanding prospect. That wasn’t that long ago. Whether it’s injuries, coaching, or circumstances, Okudah hasn’t become the player that he has the talent to be. Maybe, this is his opportunity to finally become that player. 

  2. Isaiah Rodgers, CB

Another corner. Was it a surprise that the first signed free agent this offseason was a cornerback? No. Was it a surprise that the cornerback was Isaiah Rodgers? Yes. His was an under-the-radar signing. Vikings defensive coordinator has an eye for talent and he’s had his eyes on Rodgers for a while. That’s enough for me. I have a feeling that Byron Murphy Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers are going to emerge as one of the best cornerback duos in the league. 

  1. J.J. McCarthy, QB

It’s always about the quarterback. The J.J. McCarthy era starts with this training camp. I’ve been waiting for this moment from the moment the Vikings selected McCarthy with the 10th pick of the 2024 NFL Draft.

Interesting Minnesota Vikings Position Competitions

Minnesota Vikings Training Camp is less than a week away. Here’s another look at some of the team’s  interesting position competitions. 

Interesting Minnesota Vikings Position Competitions

Defensive Line

Harrison Phillips and newcomers Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave are penciled in as the Vikings starting defensive line. After two years of scheming an interior pass rush with maniacal blitzing, defensive coordinator Brian Flores finally has player talent that can form an impactful front. With the respective ages of Phillips, Allen, and Hargrave (29,30,32), the Vikings need a solid defensive line rotation to keep those three stalwarts at their best throughout games and the season. The contenders to be part of that rotation:

Jalen Redmond

Levi Drake Rodriguez

Taki Taimani

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins

Alexander Williams

Elijah Williams

Travis Bell

Jonathan Harris

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the group is their late-round or no-round status. 2025 fifth-round pick Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins is the highest drafted of the bunch. He’s raw but immensely talented. It’s been suggested that he would’ve been a first- or second-round pick in next year’s draft if he’d stayed at Georgia for another year. Instead, he’s getting a jump on his NFL career with the Vikings. Ingram-Dawkins and Jalen Redmond are the easiest to see as part of the Vikings defensive line rotation. I expect the Vikings to roster at least six defensive linemen. I believe that the talent competing for that final spot might force the team’s decision-makers to keep seven. Perhaps that’s simply because I can’t cut one of Levi Drake Rodriguez and Taki Taimani or undrafted free agents Alexander Williams and Elijah Williams. I’m glad these roster decisions aren’t mine. 

Cornerback

Most of the nation’s football pundits question the Vikings corners. I’m excited about the potential of the unheralded bunch. I believe that Byron Murphy Jr. and underrated free agent signing Isaiah Rodgers will emerge as one of the league’s top corner duos. Rodgers is probably the player that I’m most excited to monitor in training camp and see in preseason games. If he plays in the preseason games at all. If it wasn’t for Rodgers, another cornerback would be the player I’m most excited to see. Jeff Okudah. The third pick of the 2020 NFL Draft hasn’t played to that elite draft status. His talent is obvious. Perhaps injuries, coaching, system have kept him from becoming the player that he was drafted to be. He has an opportunity in Minnesota and I believe that Flores and the defensive coaches will come up with a role that works with his particular talents. Until Okudah’s role is revealed or established, I believe that third-year Mekhi Blackmon is likely CB3. He was in line for a starting job last year. Unfortunately, he was lost for the season with an ACL injury on the first day of training camp. He’s back and healthy and ready to compete for a prominent role in the secondary. As for the final spot or two, I like the potential of second-year undrafted Dwight McGlothern and first-year undrafted Zemaiah Vaughn. Despite the opinions of those national talking heads, I’m excited about a cornerback room that potentially includes Murphy, Rodgers, Blackmon, Okudah, McGlothern, and Vaughn. Ambry Thomas and Reddy Steward might have something to say about that group. 

Offensive Line

Offensive line makes this list more for the potential of the group than the competition within it. For the first time in more than a decade, the Vikings offensive line looks like a team strength. Until they step on the field, it’s all on paper. The complete group has yet to even take a practice snap together. 

Christian Darrisaw

Donovan Jackson

Ryan Kelly

Will Fries 

Brian O’Neill

That’s a group that has the potential to rank among the best in the league. The Vikings attacked the improvement of the offensive line this offseason. Blessed with an elite tackle duo, the entire interior has been rebuilt. Ryan Kelly and Will Fries were priority free agent signings. Donovan Jackson was selected in the first round. After years of flailing about in their attempts to improve the offensive line, this offseason the team’s decision-makers were focused and committed. We won’t know if it worked until they step on the field but it sure looks promising on paper. 

With the improved starters, the backups have also improved. 

Outside Linebacker

The Vikings outside linebacker group is intriguing due to the talent at the top and the competition for depth. Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel were outstanding throughout their first year in Minnesota. They were so outstanding that first-round pick Dallas Turner couldn’t get on the field. Brian Flores and the Vikings defensive coaches will find a way to get all three on the field this season. It’s going to be beautiful to watch. The competition to round out the group will be between Gabriel Murphy, Bo Richter, Tyler Batty, and Chaz Chambliss. All are undrafted players. 

The Vikings have a lot of undrafted players competing for significant roles on defense. 

Receiver

The beauty of the Vikings receiver group is at the top of the depth chart with Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. They are the best, most skilled receiving duo in the league. The interesting part of the Vikings receiver group is the competition for roster spots after the top two. 

Jalen Nailor

Tai Felton

Rondale Moore

Tim Jones

Jeshaun Jones

Thayer Thomas

Lucky Jackson

Silas Bolden

Myles Price

Dontae Fleming

Robert Lewis

Jalen Nailor is primed for a strong offensive role. He just has to stay on the field. Tai Felton was drafted in the third round to be a playmaker now and moving forward. It would be no surprise if they are #3 and #4. After that, it’s all up in the air. Rondale Moore is the wildcard. If he’s healthy, his quickness and versatility could give the Vikings a unique offensive weapon. Return jobs will likely determine #5 and perhaps force a #6. 

Returner

Special Teams Coordinator Matt Daniels is already lobbying for Isaiah Rodgers as the team’s kick returner. Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores might not like one of his top corners taking kick return shots. Rondale Moore is another potential returner that wouldn’t be on the roster solely for a special teams role. The same goes for rookie receiver Tai Felton. When it comes to trimming the roster those are things to consider. 

The Vikings must improve their return game. It feels like forever since Cordarrelle Patterson and Marcus Sherels made it a strength. The cast of returner contenders probably include the following.

Isaiah Rodgers

Rondale Moore

Tai Felton

Silas Bolden

Myles Price

Dontae Fleming

This might be one of the most fun competitions of training camp. 

Training camp is days away. 

Throwback Thursday: Flea Flicker Favorite Football Books

I bring this list back when I’m thinking about football books. Since I’m often reading a football book, I don’t actually bring it back as often as I’m thinking about them. I am this time. Here are 27 of my favorite football books. 

27. Namath: a Biography, Mark Kriegel, 2005
If you're at all curious about the Joe Namath legend this is the book to read.

26. Friday Night Lights, H.G. Bissinger, 1990
A football classic. As much sociological study as football book.

25. Going Long: The Wild Ten Year Saga of the American Football League in the Words of Those Who Lived It, Jeff Miller, 2004
Perhaps the best book on the wildly entertaining American Football League.

24. The Mannings, Lars Anderson, 2016
Any book about the Mannings that's still talking about Archie's football career 150 pages in is an entertaining read. Not to take anything away from the Manning kids but their careers are so fresh in our football minds. Archie was a very good quarterback on a very bad team. He was also one of my favorite non-Minnesota Vikings players of his era. He's a better dad. This book is as much, or more, about raising a family and relationships as it is about football. A great book.

23. About Three Bricks Shy of a Load, Roy Blount Jr., 1974
This book is an excellent season-long, inside look at the Pittsburgh Steelers just before the team took over the NFL.

22. Chuck Noll: His Life's Work, Michael MacCambridge, 2016
Blount's book took a close look at one season before the Steelers' dynasty. MacCambridge's book looks at the life of the man behind it. It's hard to imagine the Steelers being a laughing-stock but they were for nearly all of their first 40 years in the league. When Dan Rooney hired Chuck Noll in 1969 the Steelers started to change. Quickly. MacCambrige tackles one of the game's great coaches and perhaps least known.

21. Giants and Heroes: A Daughter's Memories of Y. A. Tittle, Dianne Tittle De Laet, 1998
A look at a football star from the rare perspective of his daughter. This book is simply wonderful.

20. Native American Son: The Life and Sporting Legend of Jim Thorpe, Kate Buford, 2010
This is the best book on one of America's greatest athletes.

19. Kassulke, Karl Kassulke, 1981
The former Vikings safety delivers the wildly entertaining characters on the Minnesota Vikings of the 1960s. It's a must for Vikings fans.

18. Paper Lion, George Plimpton, 1966
George Plimpton's writing. George Plimpton's football talents. The 1963 Detroit Lions. Fun times.

17. PB: The Paul Brown Story, Paul Brown with Jack Clary, 1978
From stories of his days attending San Francisco 49ers games at Kezar Stadium in the 1940s, my father introduced me to the coaching legend of Paul Brown. As a result those Cleveland Browns teams and their coach will always have a fond place for me.

16. A Civil War, John Feinstein, 1997
A terrific, intimate look into the incredible Army-Navy rivalry.

15. Dutch Clark: The Life of an NFL Legend and the Birth of the Detroit Lions, Chris Willis, 2012

This book would probably make the list simply because of the subject. One of the best, and one of my favorite, players of the NFL’s early years was woefully covered. Chris Willis uncovered him. 

14. Finding the Winning Edge, Bill Walsh, 1997
This is the coach's manual on how to run a football team.

13. Instant Replay, Jerry Kramer and Dick Schaap, 1968
Jerry Kramer's diary of the Packers 1967 season. There are a few season-long, peak-behind-the-curtains books on this list. This book is one of the first to be written and still one of the best.

12. Halas by Halas, The Autobiography of George Halas, George Halas with Gwen Morgan and Arthur Veysey, 1979
George Halas' story is the story of the NFL.

11. The Pros: A Documentary of Professional Football in America, Robert Riger with commentary from Tex Maule, 1960
This is a unique coffee table-type book. It presents the NFL to the reader through the fantastic artwork and photography of Robert Riger and commentary of Tex Maule.

10. Total Football/Total Football II, Bob Carroll, David Neft, John Thorn, and Michael Greshman, 1997/1998
You want a pro football encyclopedia? Here's your pro football encyclopedia.

9. Run to Daylight, Vince Lombardi with W.C. Heinz, 1963
Perhaps the first "inside look" football books. Vince Lombardi takes the reader through a week of preparation for a game during the 1962 season.

8. The Game That Was, Myron Cope, 1970
Some of my favorite football books are the oral histories of the early days of the game. Myron Cope reached many of the game's best in this one. Dutch Clark, Johnny Blood, Marion Motley, Bill Willis, Bulldog Turner.

7. The Pro Football Chronicle: The Complete (Well Almost Record of the Best Players, the Greatest Photos, the Hardest Hits, the Biggest Scandals), Dan Daly and Bob O'Donnell, 1990
As the title suggests the book has a lot of everything.

6. Education of a Coach, David Halberstam, 2005
What could be better than a book written by a writer like David Halberstam about a coach like Bill Belichick?

5. What a Game They Played, Richard Whittingham, 1984
This is probably the best oral history book on football. Whittingham brings the reader the voices and experiences of many of the greats that made football great. Mel Hein, Don Hutson, Sid Luckman, Sammy Baugh, and so many others.

4. Red Grange: The Life And Legacy of the NFL’s First Surperstar, 2019

This might be the most thoroughly researched and comprehensive book on an individual football player. And it’s a fun read. 

3. A Thinking Man's Guide To Pro Football/The New Thinking Man's Guide To Pro Football, Paul Zimmerman, 1970 and 1984
This book is so great that it had to be done twice. I only wish that there was a Newer... and Newest... editions as well. Zimmerman was probably the most knowledgeable football writer in the business. He could talk and write about the game like a coach.

2. When Pride Still Mattered: A Life of Vince Lombardi, David Maraniss, 1999
The best football biography that I've read. There were a handful of years in which I had to re-read this book prior to the start of the NFL season. Just to get ready.

1. America's Game: The Epic Story of How Pro Football Captured a Nation, Michael MacCambridge, 2005
Michael MacCambridge tells the story of the NFL since World War II through a focus on the Browns, Chiefs, Colts, Cowboys, Raiders, and Rams. Well researched and very well written. If you want one book on the history of the NFL to read, this is it.

Although none made this list I can't leave a list of my favorite football books without mentioning some of those written by Jim Dent. Every one is a treat.
Twelve Mighty Orphans
Junction Boys
Monster of the Midway
Resurrection
Courage Beyond the Game: The Freddie Steinmark Story
Take your pick. Each is a well-written, incredible story. I hope that Dent can get his life in order. For himself mostly but also for the incredible football stories that he still has to tell.

First Round Signing Tracker: And Then There Was One

It often takes the start of training camp to trigger action. Since he was selected by the Denver Broncos in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Texas corner Jahdae Barron has been unsigned. The Broncos open their training camp doors for rookies today. After weeks of offseason practices and sitting idle for the month since those practices ended, Barron finally signed his first NFL contract on the eve of his first training camp. Better late than never. 

The signing of the final first round draft pick is looking more like never. The standoff between the Cincinnati Bengals and Texas A&M pass rusher Shemar Stewart has been contentious. Leave it to Mike Brown and the Bengals to make the breezy signing process of NFL first round picks difficult. The Bengals rookies are scheduled to arrive for training camp on Saturday. Perhaps Stewart and the Bengals will find common ground on Friday night like Barron and the Broncos did last night. With the notoriously penny-pinching Brown involved, I have my doubts. 

And then there was one. 

1.   Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami - Signed

2.   Jacksonville Jaguars: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado - Signed

3.   New York Giants: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State - Signed

4.   New England Patriots: Will Campbell, OT, LSU - Signed

5.   Cleveland Browns: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan - Signed

6.   Las Vegas Raiders: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State - Signed

7.   New York Jets: Amand Membou, OT, Missouri - Signed

8.   Carolina Panthers: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona - Signed

9.   New Orleans Saints: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas - Signed

10. Chicago Bears: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan - Signed

11. San Francisco 49ers: Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia - Signed

12. Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Booker, G, Alabama - Signed

13. Miami Dolphins: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan - Signed

14. Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State - Signed

15. Atlanta Falcons: Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia - Signed

16. Arizona Cardinals: Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi - Signed

17. Cincinnati Bengals: Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M

18. Seattle Seahawks: Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State - Signed

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State - Signed

20. Denver Broncos: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas - Signed

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon - Signed

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina - Signed

23. Green Bay Packers: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas - Signed

24. Minnesota Vikings: Donovan Jackson, G, Ohio State - Signed

25. New York Giants: Jaxson Dart, QB, Mississippi - Signed

26. Atlanta Falcons: James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee - Signed

27. Baltimore Ravens: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia - Signed

28. Detroit Lions: Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State - Signed

29. Washington Commanders: Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon - Signed

30. Buffalo Bills: Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky - Signed

31. Philadelphia Eagles: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama - Signed

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State - Signed

***

31 of the 32 players selected in the first round have singed their first NFL contract. 

Will Shemar Stewart be the first extended holdout of this easy-signing era? Someone has to budge before that happens. Right? 

Top 20 Minnesota Vikings Players

All Minnesota Vikings players will report for training camp in a week. That means another week of doing things like ranking the top 20 players on the Vikings roster. 

Top 20 Minnesota Vikings Players

20. Will Fries, RG

19. Ryan Kelly, C

18. Isaiah Rodgers, CB

17. Dallas Turner, OLB

16. Ivan Pace Jr., LB

15. Jonathan Allen, DL

14. Javon Hargrave, DL

13. Brian O’Neill, RT

12. Aaron Jones, RB

11. Harrison Smith, S

10. J.J. McCarthy, QB

  9. Blake Cashman, LB

  8. Joshua Metellus, S

  7. Andrew Van Ginkel, OLB

  6. T.J. Hockenson, TE

  5. Byron Murphy, Jr., CB

  4. Jordan Addison, WR

  3. Jonathan Greenard, OLB

  2. Christian Darrisaw, LT

  1. Justin Jefferson, WR

***

After Justin Jefferson and Christian Darrisaw, this ranking could go in dozens of different directions. The Mike Zimmer-Rick Spielman regime did the Kevin O’Connell-Kwesi Adofo-Mensah a huge favor with Jefferson and Darrisaw. Those two players are the team’s franchise cornerstone players of the present and foreseeable future.

Safeties Joshua Metellus and Harrison Smith and right tackle Brian O’Neill are also gifts from the previous regime. 

 Placing quarterback J.J. McCarthy in the middle of this list is hopeful. He’s yet to take a regular snap for the Vikings but all my expectations for the kid are sky high. I believe that will be higher than #10 on next year’s list. 

McCarthy is one of six players in this ranking that has yet to take a regular season snap for the Vikings. 

J.J. McCarthy

Javon Hargrave

Jonathan Allen

Isaiah Rodgers

Ryan Kelly

Will Fries

Another player that just missed this list is running back Jordan Mason. The offseason trade with the San Francisco 49ers to add Mason might be the underrated move of the offseason. 

Can’t wait for training camp. One. More. Week. 

First Round Signing Tracker

The rookies for the Los Angeles Chargers have already reported to their first training camp. The rookies for the Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New York Giants, San Francisco 49ers, and Seattle Seahawks report tomorrow. NFL Training Camp season will soon be fully underway. In these days of easy rookie contract negotiations it’s surprising to see two unsigned first-round picks so close to the start of training camp. The standoff between the Cincinnati Bengals and Shemar Stewart has reportedly become especially contentious. Leave it to Mike Brown and his penny-pinching ways to muck up something so easy. Who knows what’s going on with the Denver Broncos and Jahdae Barron. 

If two unsigned first-round picks is concerning, the signing status of the second-round picks is another level of concern. Only two of the players selected in the second round have signed their rookie contracts. If the general football-following public cares at all about the signing progress of the rookies, it’s the players selected in the first round. Here’s another look at the signings of those players.

1.   Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami - Signed

2.   Jacksonville Jaguars: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado - Signed

3.   New York Giants: Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State - Signed

4.   New England Patriots: Will Campbell, OT, LSU - Signed

5.   Cleveland Browns: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan - Signed

6.   Las Vegas Raiders: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State - Signed

7.   New York Jets: Amand Membou, OT, Missouri - Signed

8.   Carolina Panthers: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona - Signed

9.   New Orleans Saints: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas - Signed

10. Chicago Bears: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan - Signed

11. San Francisco 49ers: Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia - Signed

12. Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Booker, G, Alabama - Signed

13. Miami Dolphins: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan - Signed

14. Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State - Signed

15. Atlanta Falcons: Jalon Walker, LB, Georgia - Signed

16. Arizona Cardinals: Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi - Signed

17. Cincinnati Bengals: Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M

18. Seattle Seahawks: Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State - Signed

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State - Signed

20. Denver Broncos: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon - Signed

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina - Signed

23. Green Bay Packers: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas - Signed

24. Minnesota Vikings: Donovan Jackson, G, Ohio State - Signed

25. New York Giants: Jaxson Dart, QB, Mississippi - Signed

26. Atlanta Falcons: James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee - Signed

27. Baltimore Ravens: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia - Signed

28. Detroit Lions: Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State - Signed

29. Washington Commanders: Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon - Signed

30. Buffalo Bills: Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky - Signed

31. Philadelphia Eagles: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama - Signed

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State - Signed

***

30 of the 32 players selected in the first round have singed their first NFL contract. 

Will Shemar Stewart be the first extended holdout of this easy-signing era? Someone has to budge before that happens. Right? 

All-Time SEC Minnesota Vikings Team

It’s on to an All-Time Minnesota Vikings Team made up of players from SEC schools. 

All-Time SEC Minnesota Vikings Team

Offense

Quarterbacks

Fran Tarkenton, Georgia

Running Back

Moe Williams, Kentucky

Fullback

Tony Richardson, Auburn

Receivers

Justin Jefferson, LSU

Jarius Wright, Arkansas

Tight End

Jermaine Wiggins, Georgia

Offensive Tackles

Everett Lindsay, Mississippi

Tim Irwin, Tennessee

Guards

Anthony Herrera, Tennessee

Bernard Dafney, Tennessee

Center

Ryan Kelly, Alabama

Defense

Defensive Ends

Danielle Hunter, LSU

Jonathan Greenard, Florida

Defensive Tackles

Henry Thomas, LSU

Dalvin Tomlinson, Alabama

Linebackers

Dwayne Rudd, Alabama

Lonnie Warwick, LSU

Dallas Hunter, Alabama

Cornerbacks

Bobby Bryant, South Carolina

Willie Teal, LSU

Safeties

Corey Chavous, Vanderbilt

Jamarca Sanford, Mississippi

All-Time Big-10 Minnesota Vikings Team

It’s on to an All-Time Minnesota Vikings Team made up of players from Big-10 schools. 

All-Time Big-10 Minnesota Vikings Team

Offense

Quarterback

J.J. McCarthy, Michigan

I’m going with the quarterback that has yet to snap for the Vikings over Kirk Cousins. 

Running Back

Robert Smith, Ohio State

Fullback

Bill Brown, Illinois

Receivers

Cris Carter, Ohio State

Anthony Carter, Michigan

Tight End

T.J. Hockenson, Iowa

Offensive Tackles

Riley Reiff, Iowa

Korey Stringer, Ohio State

Guards

Steve Hutchinson, Michigan

Milt Sunde, Minnesota

Center

Kirk Lowdermilk, Ohio State

Defense

Defensive Ends

Carl Eller, Minnesota

Jim Marshall, Ohio State

Defensive Tackle

Ifeadi Odenigbo, Northwestern

Linebackers

Chad Greenway, Iowa

Scott Studwell, Illinois

Wally Hilgenberg, Iowa

Cornerbacks

Antoine Winfield, Ohio State

Trae Waynes, Michigan State

Safeties

Paul Krause, Iowa

Joshua Metellus, Michigan 

All-Time Pac-12 Minnesota Vikings Team

To help pass the time between now and the start of training camp, here’s an All-Time Minnesota Vikings Team made up of players from the Pac-12 schools. 

All-Time Pac-12 Minnesota Vikings Team

Offense

Quarterback

Warren Moon, Washington

Running Back

Hugh McElhenny, Washington

Fullback

Rick Fenney, Washington

Receivers

Ahmad Rashad, Oregon

Jordan Addison, USC

Tight End

John Beasley, California

Offensive Tackles

Gary Zimmerman, Oregon

Ron Yary, USC

Guards

Randall McDaniel, Arizona State

Ed White, California

Center

None

Defense

Defensive Ends

Doug Martin, Washington

Everson Griffen, USC

Defensive Tackles

Keith Millard, Washington State

Harrison Phillips, Stanford

Linebackers

Anthony Barr, UCLA

Eric Kendricks, UCLA

Fred McNeill, UCLA

Cornerbacks

Byron Murphy Jr., Washington

Jackie Wallace, Arizona

Safeties

Joey Browner, USC

Camryn Bynum, California

Throwback Thursday: Favorite Football Flicks

This post was originally posted prior to the Accademy Awards in 2018. It's been re-posted on several occasion since. Basically, it's been re-posted every time football flicks have been on my mind. These are very strange times. Times that call for a football flick. Here are 21 of my favorites. 

21. The Waterboy (1998)

A guilty pleasure movie. The football action is outrageous. 

20. Semi-Tough (1977)
A new addition to the list. Dan Jenkins' book is far more entertaining than the movie but the movie is still fun. Plus, former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Joe Kapp is in it. He plays a quarterback named Hose. Gotta love it. 

19. Leatherheads (2008)

This movie depicting the very early days of professional football would probably be higher on the list if I hadn't entered into it with such high hopes. It's an entertaining movie but probably one that I need to see again. Maybe it gets replaced on this list by The Replacements.

18. The Express (2008) 

The tragic story of Ernie Davis. It might be higher if not for some liberties taken with history. Like Art Modell being the Browns owner in the 1950s.

17. Invincible (2006)

The improbable football career of NFL-walk-on Vince Papale. Who doesn't love a story like this?

16. All The Right Moves (1983)

The most amazing thing about this movie is that Tom Cruise is actually believable as a high school cornerback.

15. Rudy (1993)
Some people love this movie. Others hate it. I guess that I'm somewhere in the middle. 

14. When The Game Stands Tall (2015)

You just knew that someone was going to make a movie about the incredible story of coach Bob Ladouceur and the De La Salle High Spartans. This was a nicely done look at the season that saw the loss that ended their 151-game win streak as well as the win that was arguably the greatest in school history. 

13. We Are Marshall (2006)

The remarkable rise of a town, a university, and a football team from a devastating plane crash. A great story. 

12. Any Given Sunday (1999)

Oliver Stone with a football movie? Never would have pegged that pairing. 

11. The Longest Yard (1974)

It's a classic. And Joe Kapp's in it. And Ray Nitschke. 

10. The Program (1993)

Despite being a fictional story it probably touches frighteningly close to the truth.

9.  Draft Day (2014)

Some of the trades are ridiculous but it's a very entertaining look at the greatest non-playing day on the football calendar. 

8.  Brian's Song (1971)

This one set the bar for tear-jerker football movies. Great story. Memorable performances. 

7.  Knute Rockne: All-American

A timeless look at one of football's great coaches. 

6.  Everybody's All-American (1988) 

Adapted from the terrific book by Frank Deford. A great but depressing movie. 

5.  Paper Lion (1968)

Another movie adapted from a terrific book. Alan Alda is excellent as George Plimpton. So excellent that I often picture Alda when I think of Plimpton. 

4.  Heaven Can Wait (1978)

A fine remake of Here Come's Mr. Jordan (1941) with a football spin. There was a time, a long time ago, when this was my favorite movie of any genre. 

3.  Undefeated (2011)

This is probably the only football movie to take home an Academy Award. It won for Best Documentary. A great story. A great movie. 

2.  Remember The Titans (2000) 

Great movie. Entertaining movie. You have Denzel Washington but you also have unknown youngsters like Ryan Gosling, Donald Faison, and Hayden Panettiere. 

1.  Friday Night Lights (2006)

Buzz Bissinger's book was outstanding. The movie was good but Friday Night Lights earns the top spot on this list because of the unbelievable television series. They may have lost some traction in the second season but they regained it in the third and never lost it again. This series was one of the best things that I've ever seen on television.

Minnesota Vikings Players With Highest Career Earnings

Earlier this week, the fine folks at VikingzFanPage put together this list of the Minnesota Vikings players with the highest career earnings. I found the list interesting.

Minnesota Vikings With Highest Career Earnings

10. Byron Murphy Jr., CB

      $27 million

  9. Christian Darrisaw, OT

      $30 million

  8. Aaron Jones Sr., RB

      $41.6 million

  7. T.J. Hockenson, TE

      $50 million

  6. Justin Jefferson, WR

      $51.8 million

  5. Brian O’Neill, OT

      $61.2 million

  4. Ryan Kelly, C

      $67.9 million

  3. Jonathan Allen, DT

      $76.5 million

  2. Javon Hargrave, DT

      $83 million

  1. Harrison Smith, S

      $96.4 million

A few thoughts:

1. The financial makeup of an NFL team sure looks a lot different when a ton of money isn’t devoted to a quarterback.

2. A safety at #1? 

3. Three of the top four career earners have yet to take a snap for the Vikings. 

4. Unless Brian O’Neill can beat Father Time, only Byron Murphy Jr, Christian Darrisaw, T.J. Hockenson, and Justin Jefferson are long-term franchise cornerstones. 

5. It’s amazing how much money goes to the top quarterbacks. The going annual rate for a quarterback considered even remotely franchise-quality is about $60 million. That’s Brian O’Neill’s seven years and nearly Ryan Kelly’s nine years. 

Unsigned Draft Picks: By Round

Thanks to the 2011 Collective Bargaining Agreement between the NFL and NFLPA, rookie holdouts are a thing of the past. The signings are inevitable. Although the current standoff between the Cincinnati Bengals and Shemar Stewart might put that to a test. Recently, the only difficulties come with the players selected in the second round. The agents for those players have been trying to get the fully guaranteed deals that only first-round picks have received. Only two players from the second round have signed their initial NFL contract. Both received a fully guaranteed deals. That should make the 30 remaining unsigned second-rounders even more determined. Here are the unsigned draft picks in each of the seven rounds.

First Round

17. Cincinnati Bengals: Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M

20. Denver Broncos: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas

2/32 unsigned

Second Round

35. Seattle Seahawks: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina

36. Cleveland Browns: Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State

37. Miami Dolphins: Jonah Savaiinea, G, Arizona

38. New England Patriots: TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State

39. Chicago Bears: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri

40. New Orleans Saints: Tyler Shough, QB, Louisville

41. Buffalo Bills: T.J. Sanders, DT, South Carolina

42. New York Jets: Mason Taylor, TE, LSU

43. San Francisco 49ers: Alfred Collins, DT, Texas

44. Dallas Cowboys: Donovan Ezeiruaku, Edge, Boston College

45. Indianapolis Colts: JT Tuimoloau, Edge, Ohio State

46. Los Angeles Rams: Terrence Ferguson, TE, Oregon

47. Arizona Cardinals: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

48. Houston Texans: Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota

49. Cincinnati Bengals: Demetrius Knight Jr., LB, South Carolina

50. Seattle Seahawks: Elijah Arroyo, TE, Miami

51. Carolina Panthers: Nic Scourton, LB, Texas A&M

52. Tennessee Titans: Oluwafemi Oladejo, Edge, UCLA

53. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame

54. Green Bay Packers: Anthony Belton, OT, North Carolina State

55. Los Angeles Chargers: Tre Harris, WR, Mississippi 

56. Chicago Bears: Ozzy Trapilo, OT, Boston College

57. Detroit Lions: Tate Ratledge, G, Georgia

58. Las Vegas Raiders: Jack Bech, WR, TCU

59. Baltimore Ravens: Mike Green, Edge, Marshall

60. Denver Broncos: RJ Harvey, RB, UCF

61. Washington Commanders: Trey Amos, CB, Mississippi

62. Chicago Bears: Shemar Turner, DT, Texas A&M 

63. Kansas City Chiefs: Omarr Norman-Lott, DT, Tennessee

64. Philadelphia Eagles: Anthony Mukuba, S, Texas

30/32 unsigned

Third Round

38/38 signed

Fourth Round

107. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jack Kiser, LB, Notre Dame

1/36 unsigned

Fifth Round

0/38 unsigned

Sixth Round

0/40 unsigned

Seventh Round

0/41 unsigned

Thanks mostly to the second round, 33/257 of the players selected in the 2025 NFL Draft remain unsigned. 

Minnesota Vikings Training Camp: 10 Most Intriguing Players

Minnesota Vikings Training Camp is now less than two weeks away. Here’s a look at ten of the team’s Most Intriguing Players.

10 Most Intriguing Players

1. Jeff Okudah, CB

Wouldn’t it be something if the Minnesota Vikings finally unlocked Jeff Okudah’s talent?

2. Dallas Turner, OLB

The Vikings will find a way to get Dallas Turner on the field. 

3. Rondale Moore, WR

If his knee is healthy, Rondale Moore has the quickness, agility, and versatility to give the Vikings a gadget player and offensive dimension they haven’t had. He may also contribute as a returner. With Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison at the top of the team’s receiver depth chart, the position group is a team strength. If he can avoid the injuries that have nagged his first three seasons, Jalen Nailor is a strong #3. Third-round pick Tai Felton has terrific potential. Moore is a wildcard. He has the talent to make the Vikings receiver group a special group. 

4. Theo Jackson, S

An interesting aspect of Theo Jackson’s 2.5 years in Minnesota has been the reaction of defensive teammates when asked about the backup safety. There’s always an immediate smile. “He just makes plays.” They all say that. When Jackson has seen action the last couple years, he’s made plays. The players and coaches that know him best know that he’s ready for an expanded defensive role. Camryn Bynum will be missed but Theo Jackson is ready. 

5. J.J. McCarthy, QB

It wouldn’t be a list of intriguing players if the quarterback isn’t on that list. It’s the J.J. McCarthy era and I can’t wait to see it start. 

6. Jordan Mason, RB

Aaron Jones is RB1. Jones at his best makes the Vikings offense a stronger and more versatile group. Jordan Mason was acquired in a trade with the 49ers in the offseason. The Vikings decision-makers had an in-person look a Mason in Week 2 of last season. Mason was difficult to get on the ground. Now, he’s going to be that back for the Vikings. He’s a bull of a back. He will help in short-yardage and goal line situations. He should also take some of the hits that would be put on Jones. 

7. Isaiah Rodgers, CB

Isaiah Rodgers was a priority target in free agency to be a starter opposite Byron Murphy Jr. Considering their respective roles entering training camp, it would seem that Rodgers should swap places with Jeff Okudah on this list. Rodgers is at #7 because his role as a likely starter is a known thing. Okudah’s role is still in the works. As a result, he has greater intrigue. Rodgers has the talent and elite speed to be a playmaker and difference-maker. This is his first shot as an every-play defender. He may even be the Vikings kick returner. 

8. Ryan Kelly, C

With the Vikings relying on a first-time quarterback, Ryan Kelly could be one of the most significant additions of the offseason. An experienced center is a boost for an inexperienced quarterback. Clark is the fulcrum of a vastly improved offensive line. 

9. Donovan Jackson, G

The last time the Vikings selected a guard in the first round, Randall McDaniel went on to an incredible Hall of Fame career. Donovan Jackson won’t have similar expectations. At the time, McDaniel didn’t have those expectations either. I can’t wait to see Christian Darrisaw and Jackson on the left-side of the Vikings new-look offensive line. It’s a pairing I hope one day rivals that of Gary Zimmerman and Randall McDaniel. 

10. Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, DL

The Vikings didn’t have a lot of draft picks this year. With one of the picks they did have, I believe that they got a steal in the fifth round with Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins. He’s a raw talent that might’ve been a Day 1 pick with another year at Georgia. The Vikings rebuilt the defensive line in free agency with the additions of Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave. With Harrison Phillips closing on 30 and Allen and Hargrave past 30, a defensive line rotation will be key. Ingram-Dawkins has the talent to soon be the first off the bench and an eventual defensive line fixture. 

Minnesota Vikings Training Camp: Most Intriguing Position Groups

In two weeks, Minnesota Vikings quarterbacks, rookies, and perhaps a few others will be reporting TCO Performance Center for training camp. Two days later, the rest of the team will report. Minnesota Vikings Training Camp is so close. Every one of the team’s position groups brings some level of intrigue. Here’s a look at some of the most intriguing. 

Quarterback

It always starts with the quarterback. Fran Tarkenton retired after the 1978 season. It feels like the Vikings have been searching for his replacement ever since. There’s been a legion of contenders. Tommy Kramer, Rich Gannon, Wade Wilson, Brad Johnson, Daunte Culpepper, Christian Ponder, Teddy Bridgewater, Kirk Cousins. Injuries, lack of patience, and ineptitude kept any of the legion from being a long-term answer. Perhaps it’s because he’s the current contender that makes J.J. McCarthy so intriguing. There’s something about the kid. He’s a winner. He a leader. He connects with everyone he meets. On the field, he looks and plays like the perfect quarterback for Kevin O’Connell’s offense. I can’t wait to see the start of the J.J. McCarthy era.

Offensive Line

The Vikings finally spent an offseason focused on improving the offensive line. Fans have been begging for this sort of attention for most of the past decade. The interior of the offensive line is new. The Vikings added center Ryan Kelly and right guard in free agency. They selected left guard Donovan Jackson in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. The three new starters on the interior will be bookended by arguably the best offensive tackle duo in the league, left tackle Christian Darrisaw and right tackle Brian O’Neill. As with quarterback, the offensive line isn’t so much intriguing as it is exciting. 

Defensive Line

It wasn’t just the offensive line that saw a great deal of offseason attention. The Vikings added Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave in free agency. Each is an outstanding addition. The intrigue on the defensive line comes in the training camp competition for depth roles. Starters Harrison Phillips, Allen, and Hargrave are near or past 30 years. An effective rotation will be necessary. The competition to be part of that rotation is between an intriguing mix of late-round and undrafted players.

Jalen Redmond

Levi Drake Rodriguez

Taki Taimani

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins

Alexander Williams

Elijah Williams

Travis Bell

Jonathan Harris

As a fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins is the highest drafted of the bunch. For me, the competition for the final defensive line spots is the most intriguing of the Vikings training camp. 

Cornerback

From the national media’s perspective, it would seem that the most intriguing aspect of the Vikings cornerback group are players that aren’t on the roster. Most of these talking heads appear to believe that the Vikings are lacking at cornerback. I believe that the Vikings are perfectly content with the players they have. It’s a new group. Only Byron Murphy Jr., Mekhi Blackmon, and Dwight McGlothern return and Blackmon missed last season with a knee injury. The Vikings cornerbacks are a young group. That’s a pleasant change from the old farts that manned the position last year. The expectation is the Murphy and free agent addition Isaiah Rodgers will be the starters. The competition for CB3 will be fun. Former third overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft, Jeff Okudah will be part of that competition. The plans for Okudah will be interesting. If the Vikings coaches can bring out the talent that once got him selected third overall, Okudah’s signing will be one of the league’s great steals. 

Outside Linebacker

The Vikings outside linebacker group is intriguing due to the talent at the top and the competition for depth. Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel were outstanding throughout their first year in Minnesota. They were so outstanding that first-round pick Dallas Turner couldn’t get on the field. Brian Flores and the Vikings defensive coaches will find a way to get all three on the field this season. It’s going to be beautiful to watch. The competition to round out the group will be between Gabriel Murphy, Bo Richter, Tyler Batty, and Chaz Chambliss.