News Vikings Team Notes

Vikings Will Not Be Featured On “Hard Knocks” This Season

Vegas Golden Knights v Minnesota Wild - Game Six

Photo by Luke Schmidt/NHLI via Getty Images

The purple stay out of the crosshairs

The National Football League has made its decision on which teams will be featured in this year’s installments of the Hard Knocks television series, and our Minnesota Vikings have dodged the bullet once again.

The league has announced that the Buffalo Bills will be featured on the preseason version of the long-running series, while the newer in-season version will focus on the NFC East. The Vikings do play all of the NFC East teams this season, but they will obviously not be the primary focus of the show.

In all the years the NFL has been doing Hard Knocks, the Vikings have never been featured. Some of that has to do with the fact that there were restrictions in place that narrowed which teams the league could mandate to do the show, but even with the changes to those rules that were announced back in April the purple will not be featured.

I’m not sure whether not being on Hard Knocks is a good thing for the Vikings or not. On the one hand, it might be a bit of a distraction for the players having all the extra attention, though I have my doubts that Kevin O’Connell and his staff would allow it to get that out of control. On the other hand, any Vikings content is good content as far as I’m concerned, so one day it might be interesting to see the curtain pulled back for a closer look at what goes on with the team.

In any event, if you want to see the Minnesota Vikings featured on Hard Knocks, you’ll have to wait until the 2026 season at the earliest.

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...ikings-will-not-be-on-hard-knocks-this-season
 
Norse Code Podcast Episode 559: Demolish The World (With Guest Victoria Zeller)

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Norse Code Logo

Arif and James are back to discuss the Caleb Williams story, flag football, the Brock Purdy contract, and much more! We also feature an interview with Victoria Zeller who is on to discuss her new book “One of the Boys.” Note: Victoria curses a few time during the interview. We reference this a few times during the show.

*****Download Link Here******

Episode Notes:




Follow us on Twitter / Bluesky


To listen to more, this is the link to that iTunes feed. If you can’t for whatever reason subscribe via iTunes, subscribe to via our RSS feed, which should support the RSS reader or podcast organizer of your choice. You can still leave a review even if you can’t subscribe via iTunes because it’s easy to create an AppleID. We also have a YouTube channel. Our podcasts are automatically uploaded there.

You can visit our shop here. Buy a onesie? Maybe a wiggler sticker?

But we also have a Patreon and that should make it even easier to support the best podcast for your Minnesota Vikings. We have a discord just for our Patreon supporters, along with special edition episodes. Check it out here. If you wanted to donate via Paypal instead of Patreon, head to this link.

And if you want something to show off your support of the show, buy our merch! We have multiple designs. Please do not buy a shower curtain.

Once again, contact me at arifmhasan (at) gmail dot com or the podcast at NorseCodePodcast (at) gmail dot com. Follow us on twitter at @NorseCodeDN or just me @ArifHasanNFL

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...demolish-the-world-with-guest-victoria-zeller
 
Vikings’ 2025 Draft Video Review: Is it a SKOL Blockbuster?

2025 NFL Draft - Rounds 2 & 3

Tyler Forness & Dave Stefano review the Vikings’ 2025 NFL Draft video like a blockbuster! Is it a SKOL-worthy hit or a draft dud? Dive into Donovan Jackson, Tai Felton, Kobe King, and a $16.4M cap update. Tune into The Real Forno Show! | Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images

Dive into The Real Forno Show as Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano review the Minnesota Vikings’ 2025 NFL Draft video like a Hollywood blockbuster! Is it a Certified Fresh hit or a draft flop? From Donovan Jackson’s first-round selection to Tai Felton’s potential and Kobe King’s upside, plus a $16.4M salary cap update, this Vikings 1st & SKOL podcast.

On The Real Forno Show, hosted by Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano on Vikings 1st & SKOL, the Minnesota Vikings’ 2025 NFL Draft video gets a cinematic critique akin to a Rotten Tomatoes review. Is it a “90% Fresh” blockbuster or a draft dud? The episode dives into the team’s behind-the-scenes draft strategy, analyzing the steadfast selection of left guard Donovan Jackson, the debated pick of wide receiver Tai Felton, and the excitement for linebacker Kobe King. A $14.227M salary cap update and hefty UDFA investments, like $234,000 guarantees for players such as Tyler Batty, highlight the Vikings’ focus on roster depth. Forness likens the video to “state-run media,” selectively edited to showcase the team’s best angles, but he unearths nuggets like trade maneuvers and cultural insights. From draft room decisions to community support for a cancer-fighting fan, this episode is a must-watch for Vikings fans craving insider takes on the 2025 season.

Key Points of the Episode:

  • Donovan Jackson’s Priority: The Vikings were set on drafting Ohio State’s Donovan Jackson at No. 24, eyeing him or Gray Zabel, with Forness calling it an “over-investment” but noting the team’s calculated trade plans if targets were unavailable.
  • Tai Felton’s Selection: The third-round pick of Maryland’s Tai Felton (No. 102) felt hesitant, with Forness suggesting the Vikings wanted to trade down but couldn’t, though the Sam Howell trade netted picks 201 and 202.
  • Kobe King’s Potential: Sixth-round linebacker Kobe King (No. 201) is a team favorite, considered earlier at No. 139, with a humorous video edit showing an opponent breaking his tackle.
  • Salary Cap Breakdown: The Vikings have $14.227M in cap space, with $5.2M playable after reserving $9M for practice squad and in-season moves, per Over the Cap.
  • UDFA Strategy: Nine UDFAs, including Tyler Batty and Logan Brown, received $200,000+ guarantees, with $234,000 ensuring practice squad salaries, reflecting a depth-focused approach.
  • Community Support: Stefano promotes a raffle for Viking-themed artwork to support Rap’s dad, battling cancer, showcasing the show’s community spirit.

Listen:

Watch:


Grab your popcorn and tune into The Real Forno Show for a SKOL-tastic breakdown of the Vikings’ 2025 NFL Draft video! Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano deliver a cinematic analysis that’s as gripping as a Hollywood thriller, unpacking Donovan Jackson’s star turn, Tai Felton’s underdog story, and Kobe King’s sleeper potential. With salary cap insights and a heartfelt community call, this Vikings 1st & SKOL podcast, partnered with Fans First Sports Network, is your ticket to the draft’s biggest secrets. Subscribe, like, and join the Vikings’ saga—will this draft be a box office hit?

FAN WITH US!!!


Tyler Forness @TheRealForno of Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and A to Z Sports @AtoZSportsNFL, with Dave Stefano @Luft_Krigare producing this Vikings 1st & SKOL production, the @RealFornoShow. Podcasts partnered with Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN and its NFL feed @FFSN_NFL.

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...5-draft-video-review-is-it-a-skol-blockbuster
 
Is Josh Metellus still an underappreciated player for the Vikings?

NFC Wild Card Playoffs: Minnesota Vikings v Los Angeles Rams

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

Josh Metellus has led the Vikings in tackles each of the past two seasons, but he may still be an underappreciated player in Minnesota.

Vikings do-it-all defender Josh Metellus is likely a household name around these parts, but outside of the state of Minnesota, there still seems to be some hesitancy to hold him in a higher regard amongst the league’s best defenders.

Take this recent piece from NFL.com where analyst Tom Blair picks one player from each of the 32 franchises that he considers to be underappreciated. For the Vikings, Blair picked the 27-year old Metellus who is now entering his third season as a full-time starter.

“With his impressive renovation of Minnesota’s defense over the past two seasons, Brian Flores has established himself as one of the most esteemed coordinators in football today,” says Blair. “But one of his key cogs hasn’t received the national shine he deserves. The Vikings’ second-leading tackler in each of the past two seasons, Metellus is the chess piece Flores moves all over the board. Just look at how Pro Football Focus charted his positional alignment from this past season:

Box: 512 snaps

Slot corner: 330 snaps

Free safety: 90 snaps

D-line: 63 snaps

Wide corner: 33 snaps

“Currently in the final year of his contract, Metellus feels like a prime extension candidate, given his Swiss Army Knife role in Flores’ attacking defense.”

Over the past two seasons since entering the starting lineup, Metellus has collected 219 total tackles, nine tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, three interceptions, 10 pass breakups, five forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. He’s arguably been the steadiest presence on a defense that has been one the best and most ferocious in the league during his short time as a starter.

Following the additions of defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave in free agency, I would not be surprised to see career seasons from multiple box defenders for the Vikings as the presence of the former two are likely to take up a lot more attention on a down-by-down basis. This means players like Metellus could be kept free more often, leading to more impact plays and clean runs through the line of scrimmage.

So what do you all think of Blair’s pick for an underappreciated Viking? Is Metellus the right call or do you think another member of the team could have been picked all the same? Let us know all of your thoughts below!

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...us-brian-flores-jonathan-allen-javon-hargrave
 
J.J. McCarthy and Katya Kuropas are Expecting

Minnesota Vikings v Los Angeles Rams

Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images

Congratulations to the happy couple!

Before the new starting quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings takes over long-term ownership of the NFC North, he’s going to be looking at a couple of even larger commitments off the field.


J.J. McCarthy and his fiancée, Katya Kuropas, took to Instagram earlier this week to announce that they are expecting their first child, a son who is due in September.

McCarthy and Kuropas have been together since high school and got engaged in January of 2024. The Vikings drafted McCarthy with the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft a few months after that, and he’s now set to take over as the Vikings’ starting quarterback after missing his entire rookie season with a meniscus tear.

With this announcement, McCarthy is going to have even more on his plate as the start of the 2025 NFL season approaches. However, I’m going to go out on a limb and predict that he’ll be able to handle everything just fine.

Congratulations to J.J. and Katya on the September arrival of their first child!

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...as-expecting-baby-pregnancy-minnesota-vikings
 
The “AI Baby” Trend Has Reached the Minnesota Vikings

NFL: NOV 10 Vikings at Jaguars


Whether we like it or not

If you’ve spent any time on social media over the past couple of weeks, you’ve no doubt seen a significant number of “AI Baby” videos on various platforms. For those of you who have not, what these videos do is use AI to generate baby avatars. . .I guess, for lack of a better term. . .who then give speeches or other performances with the adult audio behind them.

If you’re a bit confused by that description, allow me to show you an example, as this trend has now officially reached our Minnesota Vikings thanks to the folks at KFAN-FM in the Twin Cities.


The audio is a bit we all recognized, which is the legendary call of the Minneapolis Miracle from the Vikings’ play-by-play duo of Paul Allen and Pete Bercich. In this instance, however, both announcers have been morphed into babies. Again, this is happening all over the place and I’m honestly surprised that it took this long to finally make this one happen.

You can like these videos or hate them and, believe me, I’ve seen plenty of folks on both sides of that coin. Personally, I think they’re kind of funny, and there’s no way that I wasn’t going to share this one now that it’s out in the wild.

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...s-minneapolis-miracle-paul-allen-pete-bercich
 
Can you guess this Vikings defensive end in today’s in-5 trivia game?

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Think you can figure out which Vikings player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Minnesota Vikings fans! We’re back for another day of the Daily Norseman in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Daily Norseman in-5 game​


If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​


Saturday, May 24, 2025
Friday, May 23, 2025
Thursday, May 22, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​


NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Daily Norseman in-5 instructions​


The goal of the game is to guess the correct Vikings player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/5/25/24436837/sb-nation-vikings-daily-trivia-in-5
 
Vikings trivia: Your in-5 daily game, Monday edition

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Think you can figure out which Vikings player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Minnesota Vikings fans! We’re back for another day of the Daily Norseman in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Daily Norseman in-5 game​


If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​


Sunday, May 25, 2025
Saturday, May 24, 2025
Friday, May 23, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​


NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Daily Norseman in-5 instructions​


The goal of the game is to guess the correct Vikings player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/5/26/24437316/sb-nation-vikings-daily-trivia-in-5
 
J.J. McCarthy Receives Solid QB Ranking from Pro Football Focus

Indianapolis Colts v Minnesota Vikings

Photo by David Berding/Getty Images

All things considered, that is

There are a lot of questions surrounding Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy as he prepares to take the helm in 2025 after missing his entire rookie season. While one might expect McCarthy not to rank too highly among the 32 starting quarterbacks around the NFL, one outlet has him in a place that, all things considered, is a bit of a surprise.

Pro Football Focus has racked and stacked the NFL’s starting quarterbacks and has placed young McCarthy at #21 out of 32. While that may not sound like a terribly impressive ranking, it’s not bad for a guy who has yet to take a meaningful snap at the pro level and pretty good compared to his contemporaries from the Class of 2024.

McCarthy’s ranking puts him ahead of several of the quarterbacks who started games in their rookie season in 2024, including Drake Maye (#22), Michael Penix Jr. (#23), and Caleb Williams (#24). He’s behind Jayden Daniels (#6) and Bo Nix (#19) but, again, given that McCarthy only has one preseason game’s worth of experience at the NFL level, a ranking like this certainly makes it look like he’s pretty highly thought of.

Here’s PFF’s commentary on McCarthy’s ranking:

I’m leaning on my personal evaluation here, as I had McCarthy as the top quarterback in the 2024 NFL Draft. We didn’t get to see him as a rookie, but his 2023 season at Michigan — where he earned a 92.2 PFF grade and a 93.4 passing grade — highlighted everything you want in a young passer. If he’s fully healthy in 2025, and considering what Sam Darnold managed in this offense, McCarthy is set up to succeed.

This is sort of what we’ve been saying all along. The Vikings already had one of the best collections of skill position players in the league, particularly with T.J. Hockenson finally getting back to full health, and they made a real commitment to upgrading the offensive line this offseason through both free agency and the Draft. If McCarthy doesn’t succeed in this offense, it certainly won’t be because the Vikings didn’t do everything possible to give him advantages.

It’s hard to argue that McCarthy should be much higher than PFF currently has him ranked, to be honest. But, given the circumstances, having him ranked in the upper 20s of a list like this is a pleasant surprise.

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...-ranking-pro-football-focus-minnesota-vikings
 
Can you guess this Vikings running back in today’s in-5 trivia game?

dn_social.0.png


Think you can figure out which Vikings player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

Hey Minnesota Vikings fans! We’re back for another day of the Daily Norseman in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

Today’s Daily Norseman in-5 game​


If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

Previous games​


Monday, May 26, 2025
Sunday, May 25, 2025
Saturday, May 24, 2025

Play more SB Nation in-5 trivia games​


NFL in-5
MLB in-5
MMA in-5

Behind the Daily Norseman in-5 instructions​


The goal of the game is to guess the correct Vikings player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

Enjoy!

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/5/27/24437841/sb-nation-vikings-daily-trivia-in-5
 
Vikings Links: OTAs Underway The Next Two Days

Minnesota Vikings v Las Vegas Raiders

Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images

The long wait is over!

What is the weakest position group on the Vikings?

It has to be Quarterback right now right? I mean, JJ simply has not played yet. Next I think is either Safety or Cornerback. What trades or signings can the team still make? I think after June 1st is when it is most realistic due to cap constraints. Any team needing cap help has to wait until June 1st before making a deal. This would include Jalen Ramsey for example.

...

1 move every NFL team should make before training camp

Minnesota Vikings​

Sign S Julian Blackmon​

The Vikings are in a great spot looking ahead to the summer. If they find themselves itching to continue an aggressive offseason, though, they might benefit from some added depth at safety. Blackmon’s athleticism and versatility could be particularly useful in Brian Flores’ creative defense.​


...

We Endorse 2 Trades for the Vikings

Trade Endorsement No. 2​

CB Tariq Woolen from SEA​

Adofo-Mensah could perhaps send a 3rd-Rounder to Seattle for Woolen and a 5th-Rounder.​


...

I like the Blackmon idea and am surprised he is still available. I do not know if he has an injury or not.



The next organized team activites.

The schedule is ...

OTAs: May 27-28, May 30, June 2-3, June 5, June 16-18

Mandatory Minicamp: June 10-12



Minnesota Vikings News and Links

Vikings OTA preview: J.J. McCarthy takes the reins while questions remain on Brian Flores’ defense

With OTAs set to ramp up on Tuesday, there are multiple things for the Vikings to look at, including the future on offense.

J.J. McCarthy taking the starting reps

Getting that time with the offense and developing more chemistry with the receivers is paramount for early success.

Wide receiver depth

Jordan Addison has a jury trial in June that will likely mean the projected suspension he will get hits in the 2025 season. Jalen Nailor has done a good job overall being the number three receiver, but there are real questions about him being that consistently, let alone stepping up as the number two receiver.

Tai Felton was picked in the third round of this year’s NFL Draft, but is he ever going to be anything more than a speed threat? Is Rondale Moore going to be healthy enough to be relied upon? What about Tim Jones or Lucky Jackson? Seeing how that group shapes out will be interesting.

Who starts opposite of Byron Murphy Jr.?

Isaiah Rodgers was signed to compete to be the starter on the outside, and Mekhi Blackmon is coming off a torn ACL. Outside of those two, it’s a group headlined by former third overall pick Jeff Okudah and UDFA from last year, Dwight McGlothern.Isaiah Rodgers was signed to compete to be the starter on the outside, and Mekhi Blackmon is coming off a torn ACL. Outside of those two, it’s a group headlined by former third overall pick Jeff Okudah and UDFA from last year, Dwight McGlothern.




One thing to watch for every NFC team entering OTAs: Packers’ WR competition, Vikings’ J.J. McCarthy, more

One thing to watch: How quarterback J.J. McCarthy looks

The Vikings traded up in the 2024 NFL Draft to select McCarthy 10th overall, and then he tore his meniscus last preseason. That opened the door for veteran journeyman Sam Darnold to take the reins, and he produced the first Pro Bowl season of his seven-year NFL career.

Minnesota possesses perhaps the best offensive ecosystem in the NFL with Pro Bowlers at running back (Aaron Jones), wide receiver (Justin Jefferson), tight end (T.J. Hockenson), center (Ryan Kelly) and right tackle (Brian O’Neill). That list doesn’t include young first-round talents at wide receiver (Jordan Addison) and guard (Donovan Jackson). Plus, head coach and offensive play caller Kevin O’Connell is the reigning NFL Coach of the Year. How healthy will McCarthy look, especially after being robbed of crucial developmental reps as a rookie because of his injury? The Vikings are all in on McCarthy, so it’s critical he shows he might have what it takes to be a reliable NFL starter.




Vikings predicted to sign 562-tackle, 15-INT veteran to help solidify Brian Flores’ defense

Minnesota likely isn’t done adding to its secondary, and Moe Moton of Bleacher Report predicts GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah will take a shot on former Los Angeles Rams starter John Johnson III. Here was his take:

“At safety, the Vikings have Harrison Smith and Josh Metellus in starting spots and not much behind them. Fourth-year veteran Theo Jackson and third-year pro Jay Ward have played 285 career defensive snaps combined,” Moton wrote. “Johnson has experience at both safety positions, and he can also take on assignments in the slot. Last September, he suffered a hairline fracture in his scapula. Now healthy, the 29-year-old can fill multiple roles.”

After passing on the big-name safeties both in free agency and April’s draft, a late veteran signing like this would make some sense. Johnson flashed early in his career as a starter on some good Rams teams, including a breakout season in 2018 during L.A.’s run to the Super Bowl (13-3 loss to Patriots). He wound up spending a two-year stint with the Cleveland Browns before returning to L.A. in more of a reserve role.

Johnson has had a productive, eight-year pro career despite some recent injury-plagued seasons. He’s racked up 562 tackles and 15 interceptions in 105 career games, and was once rated among PFF’s highest-graded safeties in the NFL.




Vikings 2025 win-loss predictions: Are experts sleeping on J.J. McCarthy and Minnesota?

The NFL’s 2025 regular-season schedule is out and the predictions are already trickling in.

One early verdict? Experts aren’t yet ready to go all-in on the Minnesota Vikings and first-year starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

Jacob Camenker, USA TODAY: 11-6

Camenker: “The Vikings should compete for the NFC North title once again. That said, they may log fewer wins this season as the whole division faces a much tougher schedule. Minnesota has the fifth-hardest projected schedule in 2025, per Sharp Football Analysis. That’s not only because of the strength of the NFC North; it’s also because the division is set to play the AFC North and NFC East, two of the league’s toughest divisions, as part of the NFL’s rotating schedule.”




Who won the Stefon Diggs trade between the Vikings and Bills?

Final terms and players of the Stefon Diggs trade

Bills get WR Stefon Diggs, 2020 seventh-round pick 239 overall

Vikings get 22nd overall pick in 2020 NFL Draft, 2020 fifth-round pick 155 overall, 2020 sixth-round pick 201 overall, 2021 fourth-round pick 134

The Vikings used pick 22 to select wide receiver Justin Jefferson.

The Vikings traded pick 155 for a fourth-rounder in 2021 with the Chicago Bears, which became pick 125 overall in 2021. They used that pick on safety Camryn Bynum.

Pick 201 was used in another trade package with the Baltimore Ravens. The Vikings sent 201 and 219 to Baltimore and received pick 225 and a 2021 fifth-round from Baltimore that was originally Pittsburgh’s pick. At 225, Minnesota picked DE Kenny Willekes and the 2021 pick ended up being 168th overall, and they selected TE Zach Davidson.


...

Who won the Stefon Diggs trade between the Vikings and Bills?

You have to say that the Vikings came out ahead by getting a much younger and cheaper receiver that has been better than Diggs. They also nabbed a four-year starter at safety with one of the throw-in picks.

However, I think Diggs was a really big part of the Bills’ ascension and the maturation of Josh Allen. Buffalo’s young QB and team in general also benefited very much from Diggs’ presence and then the Bills also got a high pick in return for trading him later.

The Vikings many have won the trade, but the Bills also got a really good return on their investment.




With an NFL expansion draft possible in the near future, here’s who the Minnesota Vikings could leave unprotected

How would the Vikings handle a potential expansion draft? That’s a very interesting discussion, and something that our own Wendell Ferreira is exploring by building a mock franchise and going through over the next few weeks.

Being that we have 90-man rosters, Ferreira is going at things a little bit differently. Here are the rules for an expansion draft:

1. Each current NFL team has to leave 12 players unprotected.,

⁠2. Players with 0 or 1 accrued seasons are automatically protected and can’t be on the list. Players with no-trade clauses can’t be added either.,

⁠3. If the player is taken, the expansion team will absorb both his future salaries and signing bonus prorations, so it can be a useful tool to unload veteran contracts. You can add on the unprotected list the worst possible players and/or some bad contracts, use strategy here.,

⁠4. The list is final, meaning that teams can’t withdraw a player after another one has been selected.,

⁠5. The expansion team can get a maximum of two players from each NFL team, and a maximum of 40 players.

Vikings offensive players unprotected

RB Ty Chandler

WR Rondale Moore

WR Tim Jones

QB Brett Rypien

OT Leroy Watson IV

Vikings defensive players unprotected

ILB Brian Asamoah II

DT Travis Bell

CB Kahlef Hallassie

DL Jonathan Harris

CB Ambry Thomas

CB Tavierre Thomas

P Ryan Wright




JJ be like ...



Again, we all know the rules, but in case someone is new:

  • No discussion of politics or religion
  • No feeding of the trolls
  • Leave the gender hatred at the door
  • Keep the bad language to a minimum (using the spoiler tags, if you must)
  • Speaking of which, if discussing a newer show or movie, please use spoiler tags
  • No pictures that could get someone fired or in serious trouble with their employer
  • If you can’t disagree in a civil manner, feel free to go away
  • While navigating the open thread, just assume it’s sarcasm

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...y-jordan-addision-harrison-smith-byron-murphy
 
The Vikings Are Practicing Again, and Here’s Video Proof

NFL: JAN 13 NFC Wild Card Playoffs - Vikings at Rams

Photo by Kevin Abele/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Lest you think we were lying

We are a mere two months from the start of Training Camp for the Minnesota Vikings, as well as for the 31 other NFL teams who don’t matter as much as the Minnesota Vikings do.

Yesterday, the team gathered in Eagan for the start of their Organized Team Activities for the 2025 season. We have video proof that this actually happened, courtesy of the team.


Go time.#Skol pic.twitter.com/RVBYvSnRc0

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) May 28, 2025

Obviously, there isn’t a lot to be seen in the video, but at least it’s football. There are even some players in the video that you’ll recognize!

Based on all of the reports, it seems like pretty much everyone on the roster is in attendance in Eagan this week, including Justin Jefferson. If memory serves me correctly, Jefferson has not been at the voluntary portion of OTAs for the past year or two, but he’s certainly at this week’s session as you can see in the video.

The Vikings’ mandatory mini-camp will not be taking place until 10-12 June. They’ll have voluntary OTAs today and Friday, and also on 2, 3, and 5 June, as well as 16-18 June. Training Camp will get underway as it always does in late July, with the team’s preseason opener taking place against the Houston Texans at U.S. Bank Stadium on 9 August.

The video that the Vikings have provided isn’t much, sure, but at this point of the offseason we’ll take what we can get.

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/5/28/24438596/minnesota-vikings-practicing-again-video
 
Vikings enter 2025 season with one of the NFL’s most complete rosters

NFC Wild Card Playoffs: Minnesota Vikings v Los Angeles Rams

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

The Vikings got bigger and better this offseason and analysts are agreeing it may be one of the best rosters in the NFL this year.

On Wednesday morning, Eric Edholm of NFL.com went about ranking the top 10 most complete rosters in the NFL. While there may be a few surprises included, most of the teams are and have been at the top for awhile now.

The top spot went to the Philadelphia Eagles who are fresh off their Super Bowl victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. They were followed by the Ravens, Lions, the aforementioned Chiefs, and the Buffalo Bills which rounded out the top five.

But that next spot at number six? That was filled by none other than the Minnesota Vikings.

“It’s difficult to precisely place the Vikings, who have a Formula 1 roster but a learner’s permit driver,” says Edholm. “After being sidelined with a knee injury for all of 2024, first-year starting QB J.J. McCarthy likely holds the key for this team, which is coming off a 14-win season, but how do you properly rank a talented squad with a quarterback who has just 30 snaps in a preseason game under his belt?”

Edholm goes on to say that McCarthy’s pedigree as a top-10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft helps him keep the floor of this team high, and that his projected success stems from the fact that he has an even better supporting cast around him than Sam Darnold did during the team’s recent 14-3 season. While the weapons are the same, the Vikings spent a lot of money up front for McCarthy’s protection by adding both guard Will Fries and center Ryan Kelly.

As for the other side of the ball, Edholm loves what Brian Flores and Co. brought in, including the pair of impact defensive tackles in Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave.

“The defense has a front seven capable of controlling games. Most members of last year’s strong crew return, and the additions of Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen make it harder to double anyone up front. The secondary is the biggest concern, potentially counting on players such as Isaiah Rodgers and Theo Jackson for expanded roles. If everything comes together, Brian Flores could have another strong defense.”

The special teams unit looks to remain the same in 2025 with the trio of kicker Will Reichard, punter Ryan Wright, and long snapper Andrew DePaolo all returning for another go-round. Edholm believes there could be some room for improvement here, but overall knows it’s still a solid enough group that did their part in helping the team to the 14-3 record from a season ago.

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...-mccarthy-roster-justin-jefferson-sam-darnold
 
Vikings OTA Updates & Ramsey Buzz

NFL: MAY 10 Minnseota Vikings Rookie Camp

On *The Real Forno Show*, Tyler Forness discusses JJ McCarthy’s OTA progress, noting his growing chemistry with Justin Jefferson and Harrison Smith. Forness is more optimistic but tempers expectations, predicting McCarthy could thrive in the Vikings’ elite system, potentially leading to a 12-win season if average.

Vikings OTA insights, J.J. McCarthy’s growth, and Jalen Ramsey trade rumors dominate this Real Forno Show episode. Could Ramsey be the Vikings’ missing piece, or is McCarthy’s chemistry with Jefferson the real game-changer?

The latest episode of The Real Forno Show, hosted by Tyler Forness and producer Dave Stefano, offers an in-depth look at the Minnesota Vikings’ 2025 Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and the swirling rumors of a potential Jalen Ramsey trade. Airing as part of the Vikings 1st & SKOL production on the Fans First Sports Network, the episode highlights the team’s focus on player development, with Forness emphasizing head coach Kevin O’Connell’s teaching philosophy during OTAs: “This is the learning, the teaching phase.” Key discussions include right guard Will Fries’ recovery, J.J. McCarthy’s chemistry with Justin Jefferson, and the pros and cons of acquiring Ramsey. Forness tempers expectations for McCarthy while praising the Vikings’ elite infrastructure, predicting a potential 12-win season even with an “average” quarterback performance.

Key Points from the Episode:

  • Will Fries’ Recovery: Fries remains sidelined post-tibia injury, but the Vikings are cautious, expecting him ready by training camp. Forness sees no major concern, citing Fries’ familiarity with the offensive line.
  • J.J. McCarthy’s Development: Forness is increasingly optimistic about McCarthy, noting his growing bond with Jefferson, though he urges fans to temper expectations for the young QB.
  • Justin Jefferson’s OTA Attendance: Jefferson’s presence, likely driven by a $250,000 workout bonus, signals leadership and boosts team chemistry, critical for McCarthy’s success.
  • Jalen Ramsey Trade Debate: Forness questions trading for the soon to be 31-year-old cornerback due to his $24.235 million salary and declining stats, preferring a cut scenario with a $10-15 million deal.
  • Vikings’ 2025 Outlook: With a strong roster and coaching, Forness believes the Vikings are “quarterback-proof,” projecting 12 wins if McCarthy performs averagely.

Join the Vikings Conversation!

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The Real Forno Show delivers the pulse of the Minnesota Vikings’ offseason, blending sharp analysis with fan-friendly insights that make it a must-listen for SKOL Nation. Whether you’re curious about J.J. McCarthy’s potential, Justin Jefferson’s impact, or the strategic merits of a Jalen Ramsey trade, Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano have you covered. Tune into this Vikings 1st & SKOL production, subscribe, and ring the bell to stay updated on the latest Vikings news. Don’t miss out—join the conversation and fuel your Vikings fandom today!

FAN WITH US!!!

Tyler Forness @TheRealForno of Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and A to Z Sports @AtoZSportsNFL, with Dave Stefano @Luft_Krigare producing this Vikings 1st & SKOL production, the @RealFornoShow. Podcasts partnered with Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN and its NFL feed @FFSN_NFL.

Do you believe the Vikings are “quarterback-proof?”

Will J.J. McCarthy be better than just average?

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/5/29/24439477/vikings-ota-updates-ramsey-buzz
 
Minnesota Vikings News and Links: Two Days Of OTAs Are Done

Las Vegas Raiders v Minnesota Vikings

Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images

How did our QB look?

The first two days of OTAs are in the books and it is all good right? I think it is and it is nice to see JJ McCarthy out there getting those first team reps. We got a long ways to go but it is a start. If I am going to be honest, I was not a big fan when he was coming out of college. It seemed like too much hype and the draft talk about trading multiple high picks to get him was too much for my tastes. I am happy that the team did not give up very much to secure him. I was surprised when the Falcons took Michael Penix and would have wondered if the Vikings would have taken him instead of JJ. Maybe they do not trade up if both were on the board? I believe they would have taken JJ due to his age and injury history (at the time).

I was impressed after seeing that first preseason game. He made the passes he needed to make to get some scores and showed very good mobility. It is going to be exciting to see him play in the preseason game which he should.



The next organized team activites.

The schedule is ...

OTAs: May 27-28, May 30, June 2-3, June 5, June 16-18

Mandatory Minicamp: June 10-12



Minnesota Vikings News and Links

How did JJ McCarthy look at OTAs? Well...

Bigger, faster, stronger.

That’s how JJ McCarthy described himself physically following Wednesday’s OTA practice at TCO Performance Center, which was open to the media.

I would quote Larry David to characterize his practice: Pretty, pretty, pretty…. pretty good.

Question: Did McCarthy throw the ball with similar velocity and accuracy as we saw from him last year in training camp?

Answer: Yes. He completed most of his passes with a high degree of accuracy. One in particular stood out — a deep out route to Jordan Addison that was around 20 yards downfield.




3 Observations: J.J. McCarthy, Justin Jefferson & Offense Focus on Growth; Fast-Paced Defense; Vikings Newcomers

McCarthy threw passes (albeit in a helmet and shorts) and executed handoffs during 7-on-7 drills and some non-contact 11-on-11 sessions.

He also continued growing in Head Coach Kevin O’Connell’s system, appreciating valuable time to develop above-the-neck aspects of playing the sport’s hardest position.

“In the 7-on-7 space, I think you can really get a feel for, ‘Is a guy reading with his feet? Is he taking the right drop? Is his base and body and balance positioned to the throws and sequence of the drop in the proper place? And did he make the throw? And then was it accurate?’ And then you can kind of coach backwards from the ending of the play,” O’Connell explained when asked about assessing progression. “Then there’s a lot of things, like, ‘Did the other guys do their jobs?’ And that’s why it’s so great to have the participation of Justin [Jefferson] and Jordan [Addison] and T.J. [Hockenson], and we’ve got a group out there and guys that know what they’re doing, so they can give him some real-time feedback, as well.

“ ‘Hey, I know you [went elsewhere with the football], but hey, I’m going to win at the top of this route, regardless of the leverage.’ That’s something he’s going to get used to hearing from No. 18 (Jefferson) early and often. Little things like that,” O’Connell added. “It’s just you can’t put that — you can’t measure the importance of those things. But then, today was a little bit more decisive than yesterday; Friday will be the same, and there’ll be just growth and growth.”


O’Connell said the Vikings are approaching these sessions by having a “significant amount of offense” in the practices.

“We’d be doing a disservice if we try to work real slowly with the material and plays,” O’Connell said. “The better thing we can do is throw a lot at the group, see who’s handling what, because we’ve got other new guys in all three phases that we’re trying to see. ‘Where are they going to slot and fit when it comes to the competition phase in the fall.’ “

1. Pace-INT-ing around the ball

O’Connell emphasized the importance of not placing too much weight on outcomes of plays at this point in the calendar.

There was good for the Vikings and bad on the very first snap of 7-on-7.

McCarthy targeted Jefferson on his first pass but the ball looped up slightly, and Byron Murphy, Jr., knew just what to do. He came in and contacted the football, which went right to linebacker Ivan Pace, Jr., for an interception.

Pace also was able to knock a ball out before Aaron Jones, Sr., completed a catch and surged through the line of scrimmage on a blitz during 11-on-11 action.

McCarthy did lock in with multiple other receivers and dropped one in the bucket to Jefferson for a touchdown later in the practice.

2. O-line combo

The Vikings spent considerable time and energy in remaking the offensive line this offseason.

New center Ryan Kelly manned the pivot and was joined on his left by first-round pick Donovan Jackson.

Blake Brandel, who started at left guard in 2024, moved to right guard, where free agent addition Will Fries is projected to start. Fries is on the mend from a broken leg he suffered last season.

It was no surprise that Brian O’Neill manned the right tackle spot, but instead of Christian Darrisaw, who is recovering from a knee injury in Week 8 last season, it was veteran newcomer Justin Skule at left tackle for the first grouping of offensive linemen.

3. Defensive newcomers step right in

The Vikings defense continues to evolve under Brian Flores.

Two things stood out, despite again adding multiple newcomers to the mix and utilizing varied groupings and formations: the smoothness in communication before the snap and the group speed during the plays.

Up front, Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave began their teamwork that is designed to reach full force once the pads go on.

Veteran cornerback Jeff Okudah was involved early in coverage, lining up opposite of Murphy in a 7-on-7 grouping that also included Pace and Blake Cashman at inside linebacker, Andrew Van Ginkel on the edge, and Harrison Smith and Theo Jackson at safety. (CB Isaiah Rodgers and all-arounder Joshua Metellus were not at the voluntary session). Jay Ward also logged some work in filling in for Metellus.




‘He’s a tremendous talent’ J.J. McCarthy talks about Justin Jefferson, sends clear message about chemistry

“He’s a tremendous talent, tremendous leader. But his leadership really shows up when he’s here. And, you know, just being able to get, you know that chemistry building on and off the field has been invaluable.

“We spent a good amount of time, you know, the Wolves game was interesting, being miked up and all that. But, um, yeah, we spent a good amount of time together.”

McCarthy was directly asked about how much work they got together last year, and he gave both an honest and vague answer.

“Last year? I don’t know the specific amount of reps, but I would say it’s probably not as much as it is now. And it’s every receiver that I’m with. It’s that timing, those reps, all of that has to be built up over time. So, the more reps the better. And yeah, I just feel like we’re not where we want to be, but we’re going to be there when we need to.”




J.J. McCarthy is ‘bigger, stronger, faster’ — and smarter in Year 2

J.J. McCarthy says he’s “bigger, faster, stronger” than he was at this time last year. That’s big new for the Minnesota Vikings, and clearly part of the reason why the franchise elected to move forward with him instead of giving Aaron Rodgers or anyone else a chance to lead the purple to the promised land.

McCarthy credits natural aging — he turned 22 on Jan. 20 — for his physical improvements.

“I would say just naturally age. Being able to be here the entire offseason, work out five days a week and just consistently stack those days because over time it’s going to show up to how I feel now,” McCarthy said after the Vikings held an organized team activity on Wednesday.

It also helps that he’s 10 months removed from the torn meniscus that ended his rookie season after one preseason game.

“It feels amazing,” he said of being back on the field. “When you get it taken away from you, you take every chance you get to be back out here and really appreciate it, really take the most out of it. There’s just nothing better than being out here with the boys, playing some ball.”

Head coach Kevin O’Connell raved about McCarthy’s growth from Year 1 to 2.

“Yeah, he’s healthy. He’s done an unbelievable job,” O’Connell said. “You kind of forget the fact that this is his first runway since the injury happened. I think it’s just a credit to the work he put in. There’s been a lot of lonely hours where it’s him and the training staff and the strength staff. Jut the work he’s put in to get his body where he’s at, and the arm feeling the way it is, and then of course coming off the injury his lower body feeling as good as it does, to move the way he’s doing. He looks great. He’s feeling really good. Now we just gotta stack a lot of really good days together this spring together.”

“I would say the familiarity within the offense,” McCarthy said of his growth. “Just being able to regurgitate play calls and understand where guys are at, where they’re supposed to be if they’re not there. Yeah, the familiarity in the offense is the biggest change.”


O’Connell said “darn near 100%” of the roster showed up to the voluntary OTAs, including wide receiver Justin Jefferson, whose connection with McCarthy is growing on and off the field.

“I think it’s been huge. Not only just for J.J.,, but he’s an energy ignitor of the whole building. He’s come back with a purpose and a mindset,” O’Connell said of Jefferson’s’ presence.

“We’re not where we want to be, but we’re going to be there when we need to,” McCarthy said, noting that he enjoyed being mic’d up alongside Jefferson at a recent Timberwolves playoff game.

On the field, it’s all about getting as many reps as possible with Jefferson, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, Jalen Nailor, Brandon Powell, Tai Felton and every other weapon he has at his disposal.

“Just reps with receivers, finding that timing with all these guys. Just keep stacking day after day. Not trying to put it on ‘em, but really trust them in and out of the cut and put the ball to a spot where it needs to be. It’s just all about feel and just getting those reps. That’s where the accuracy with come,” he said.

“We can’t assume that he knows any particular thing just based upon the meeting room. We gotta come out and feel it and organically feel exactly where he’s at,” O’Connell said. “What I’ve been really surprised by is some of the things that he does know. You’re like, ‘man, we covered that in a 10-minute burst in Week 11 last year. How do you remember that?’ And then there are some other things where you’re like, ‘Oh, I assumed he knew that.’ So what’s our job? Baseline teaching and stacking days and layered learning so that we’re constantly making him feel like he’s growing, but never comfortable, never satisfied on any particular outcome because we’re building towards something much greater than just a single play here or there.”


Will Fries unlikely to be full force until training camp

“It’s almost hard to believe with how strong he is,” O’Connell said. “But we’re being really smart just with the injury that it was. Knowing how we handle the spring, I don’t know if we’ll see him fully active this spring. But I have no hesitation to say that I’m really excited to see him when he’s able to get out there, more than likely training camp, but there’s still a chance we could see him in some bits and pieces of work over the next two weeks. But he’s in a good spot.”




Reputable Vikings insider doesn’t think Jalen Ramsey speculation is crazy

Is there any chance that All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey gets traded to the Minnesota Vikings?

We connected the dots from a logical perspective last week, and former NFL star Jason McCourtney said on ESPN Tuesday that he thinks Ramsey would be an “awesome fit” with defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ scheme in Minnesota. And now you can count reputable Vikings insider Ben Goessling of the Minnesota Star Tribune among those who think it’s worth keeping an eye on.

“It is an interesting question,” Goessling said on KFAN-FM 100.3, replying to a question from a listener of the weekday show hosted by Vikings announcer Paul Allen.

“I think it’s certainly worth keeping in mind because there is that history with Kevin O’Connell. He won a Super Bowl with Kevin O’Connell. I think there would be a need there, certainly,” Goessling continued. “You’d have to figure out how you’d have to make that work financially, but if they could figure that out, I wouldn’t rule it out. I think it’s certainly worth keeping in mind just because of the need and the familiarity with him from a lot of that coaching staff having been with him with the Rams.”




Insider expects ‘legit battle’ between Sam Howell and Brett Rypien for backup spot

When the Vikings traded for Sam Howell last month, he became the obvious choice to be their backup quarterback next season. Local Minnesota sports insider Darren Wolfson, however, thinks it’s a “legit battle” between Howell and Brett Rypien to be QB2.

“I’m telling you, that’s a legit battle. Brett Rypien v Sam Howell,” Wolfson said on the latest episode of the Minnesota Sports with Mackey and Judd podcast. “To think it’s 100% foregone conclusion that Sam Howell is the next man up? No. Hold your horses. That’s a legit battle, July into August, Howell versus Rypien.”




Minnesota Vikings continue to be overlooked for one singular reason and it doesn’t make sense

The Minnesota Vikings are in a position to make waves this year thanks to a very deep roster. Even so, not everyone is a believer, as ESPN’s analytics writer Seth Walder used FPI to make projections for the 2025 season and they aren’t viewed highly at all. Why? Once again, it’s the presence of J.J. McCarthy.

If there is a curveball, it’s that Minnesota ranks only 15th after going 14-3 in 2024. But the Vikings relied on their defense — which ranked third in EPA per play — last season while ranking a mediocre 15th on offense. And even though Brian Flores remains as defensive coordinator, defensive success is hard to replicate.

Plus, second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy is an unknown after missing his rookie season with a torn meniscus in his right knee. While he might possess more upside than last year’s starter, Sam Darnold, McCarthy’s downside is almost certainly lower. Therefore, the FPI gives Minnesota only a 19% chance to win the division and a 43% chance to reach the playoffs




ESPN believes Vikings are in rare company that makes them dark horse Super Bowl contenders in 2025

The sportsbooks only have the Vikings with a win total of 8.5, just one year after winning 14 games with a roster that’s worse than what it is now.

ESPN’s Benjamin Solak is one who does have a belief in the Vikings, and it has to do with the entirety of the roster, something that I’ve been discussing for weeks on end.

There are two teams that could reasonably project as having the best offensive line and the best defense for the 2025 season: Minnesota and Denver. As such, Minnesota and Denver register as “Super Bowl dark horses” on my “What sort of contender are you?” scale before I even know anything about their respective young quarterbacks.




Kevin O’Connell on J.J. McCarthy’s Mobility, Will Fries Update & ‘Layered Learning’ at Vikings OTAs

O’Connell said it’s “been huge” having Jefferson in the facility for voluntary workouts.

“You know, not just for J.J., but you guys know this — he’s an energy igniter of the whole building. And I think he’s come back with a purpose and a mindset,” O’Connell told a large crowd of Twin Cities media members. “I know this is kind of your guys’ first time seeing him, but he’s been here and spent some time here during Phase 2 [of OTAs], just when we’re pitching and catching. You hear his voice, you hear his interaction with teammates, and they just carry such a long way.

“He and I have had a lot of conversations about his role,” O’Connell added. “He’s not only a captain, but he means so much to this organization, and the guys in that locker room that know, ‘If this guy, one of the best in the world at what he does, is pushing himself in May and June, I sure as heck better be doing the same thing.’ “




Roger Goodell’s latest comments threaten Minnesota Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s brilliant team building strategy

One of the things that Adofo-Mensah maximized was his use of void years. Utilizing those has been a great way to continue adding talent while staying within the constraints of the rigid salary cap. It’s how the Vikings compiled a regular season record of 34-17, despite having over $72 million in dead salary cap throughout the course of last year’s 14-win season.

The use of void years isn’t a new practice, but it’s one that seems to have the owners looking to eliminate. Commissioner Roger Goodell heavily alluded to that when he spoke at the owners meetings last week.

“There are no formal plans on any discussions,” Goodell told reporters. “We obviously continue to be in close communication with the union on a variety of matters, but no start of negotiations have been set or are under consideration really at this point. We did spend time today talking, at length, about areas of our Collective Bargaining Agreement that we want to focus on. The two areas that we spent time on were really the cap system itself, the integrity of that system, how’s it working, where do we need to address that in the context of collective bargaining, when that does happen. That was a very lengthy discussion.”

While Goodell didn’t directly say that they will be looking to get rid of void years, it does seem that it was the focus of the discussion. Over The Cap’s Jason Fitzgerald believes that to be the case.


Had a few questions about Goodell's comments on the cap...my gut feeling is those are about the current level of manipulation that exists with void years.

The nfl has always been a reactive league when it comes to rules. Changes often occur when too many teams skirt the rules

— Jason_OTC (@Jason_OTC) May 25, 2025


Vikings’ duo skyrockets in rankings of NFL’s elite edge rushers

The Minnesota Vikings’ star pass rushing duo of Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel have been named among the top 32 edge rushers in the league by Pro Football Focus. Combined, Greenard and Van Ginkel tallied 23.5 sacks in their debut season with the Vikings in 2024.

Greenard and Van Ginkel both placed in PFF’s top 20, coming in at No. 15 and No. 17, respectively. PFF’s Ryan Smith said Greenard “thrived” in Brian Flores’ defense, while Van Ginkel delivered “the most productive season of his career.”





Again, we all know the rules, but in case someone is new:

  • No discussion of politics or religion
  • No feeding of the trolls
  • Leave the gender hatred at the door
  • Keep the bad language to a minimum (using the spoiler tags, if you must)
  • Speaking of which, if discussing a newer show or movie, please use spoiler tags
  • No pictures that could get someone fired or in serious trouble with their employer
  • If you can’t disagree in a civil manner, feel free to go away
  • While navigating the open thread, just assume it’s sarcasm

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...hy-kevin-oconnell-justin-jefferson-will-fries
 
Reader Vote: D-Line Nickname Finals

Alan Page - File Photos

Photo by James Flores/Getty Images

Where will this unit rank in the annals of Vikings history???

Things are starting to heat up for the upcoming NFL season. Word out of OTAs is that the Minnesota Vikings' players are all in on 2025. This part of the season is where a lot of chemistry is built through different teambuilding activities. It is the time of the year, I imagine, where nicknames begin to emerge from within the team. But why should the players have all of the fun?

Without further ado, and with many excellent entries from readers like you, we have the four finalists for the defensive line nickname for 2025. The expected rotation, in no particular order, of Greenard, Van Ginkel, Allen, Hargrave, Phillips, Turner, and Redmond will be feared by opposing offenses. If you think I missed any names there, please make a case for why that player will be impactful in the comments.

We started with a dozen selections, all submitted by the Daily Norseman faithful. The top 4 vote getters are below.

As I've mentioned before, I do not have any magical influence powers. I can only promise that the nickname winners will be used by myself when writing articles about our favorite team. But hey, maybe the name will catch on during the season.

Bonus discussion: make your predictions in the comments. Where will this unit rank in the list of all time greats? The Purple People Eaters will likely never be dethroned, but where is the floor and where is the ceiling in the context of Vikings history?

Results for the running back tandem vote will be posted with the winner of today's vote. If there is anything else you'd like to vote on, or topics you'd like to discuss, let me know.

I am a man of the people!

Until next time.

-Jesse M

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...als-minnesota-vikings-defensive-line-nickname
 
Vikings Links: It’s An Exciting Time!

NFC Wild Card Playoffs: Minnesota Vikings v Los Angeles Rams

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

You have to be hyped up to see our QB!

It is an exciting time to be a Vikings fan. It is a little like 1998 for me. Obviously, the QB situation brings “worry” but the rookie QBs last year performed fairly well so there is no reason to believe that JJ McCarty is not going to do well especially playing in KOC’s offense.

...

The next organized team activites.

The schedule is ...

OTAs: June 2-3, June 5, June 16-18

Mandatory Minicamp: June 10-12



Minnesota Vikings News and Links

Five new quarterback-play-caller duos NFL defenses should be most worried about in 2025

Rank 2

Minnesota Vikings

QB: J.J. McCarthy

Play-caller: Kevin O’Connell

In his three years at the helm, KOC has worked wonders with every quarterback donning purple, including Sam Darnold , who revitalized his career by helping Minnesota finish sixth in the NFL in passing yards in 2024. So it follows that the Vikings’ offense should continue to roll even as McCarthy, who missed his rookie year because of a preseason knee injury, takes over as a first-time starter under center this season. Yes, McCarthy arrived in the NFL as the 10th overall pick in last year’s draft with a limited amount of experience (28 college starts), and he has not been able to gain much more yet. But the 6-foot-3, 220-pounder adds a different dimension to the offense as a mobile playmaker with the potential to terrorize opponents inside or outside the pocket.

I expect the call sheet to feature more movement-based concepts and RPOs that could make the young gunslinger a dynamic weapon in the backfield, meaning the Vikings’ prolific playmakers should ring up big numbers while snagging passes all over the yard. With Justin Jefferson , Jordan Addison , T.J. Hockenson and Aaron Jones taking turns as playmakers in a “catch-and-run” offense, the Vikings should remain a high-powered unit with McCarthy running the show.




J.J. McCarthy acknowledges taking important step in preparation for his first season as Minnesota Vikings starting quarterback

J.J. McCarthy is preparing the right way

One of the things that McCarthy has done is spend a lot of time with wide receiver Justin Jefferson. McCarthy understands that building a rapport with the best wide receiver in the game is important.

He also gets the little things that need to be done, including developing chemistry with his center Ryan Kelly. It’s an underrated relationship when it comes to the success of the offense, and he talked about spending time with him

“[I spent] a good amount of time with Ryan Kelly. We met a couple times with Coach Kup [Chris Kuper] and just went over just little things about the offense, base stuff, and just be on the same page with that. And it’s a continued process. That relationship is going to grow throughout the remainder of this off season and the entire season. So, I’m very excited. He’s an absolute stud. I can’t wait to get Will [Fries] out here and Justin [Skule] has been fantastic. Great additions to the room. Donnie [Donavan Jackson] got some time today. So, it’s been really awesome having those guys.”




Javon Hargrave Faces Pivotal Season Entering Vikings OTAs

At 31 years old, Hargrave needs to prove himself as still a viable starter in the NFL. The 2025 season might be the most crucial season of his career.

In his recent article, PFF writer Dalton Wasserman examined the top bounce-back season candidates from each of the 32 teams. Hargrave was the top candidate with Minnesota after missing significant time in 2024 with the San Francisco 49ers.

“Hargrave played just 104 snaps in 2024 before a torn triceps sidelined him for the remainder of the season. In the three years prior, he posted a 92.4 pass-rush grade, a 13.2% pressure rate and a 16.6% pass-rush win rate, all of which ranked in the top four among qualified interior defenders over that span. He now joins a Minnesota defensive front that finished 29th in pass-rush grade from interior defenders last season. Hargrave should have plenty of opportunities to make his presence felt in 2025.”




Vikings’ Justin Jefferson Makes Major Change for J.J. McCarthy



Ranking NFC North RB rooms for 2025: Where does Vikings’ new duo land?

3. Vikings

Starter: Aaron Jones

Others: Jordan Mason, Ty Chandler, Zavier Scott

I thought about putting the Vikings in second place on this list, but couldn’t quite justify it. Nonetheless, I was a huge fan of the trade for Mason, which I wrote about at length here. The 26-year-old ran for nearly 800 yards last year and has a career mark of 5.3 yards per carry. Somehow, his advanced metrics are even more impressive. He’s big, physical, explosive, and possesses excellent vision. Mason’s agility and tackle-shedding ability should help the Vikings quite a bit on early downs and in short-yardage situations.

The 1A back is still Jones, who is coming off an outstanding year with 1,546 yards from scrimmage and seven touchdowns. He played in all 17 games and handled a career-high 306 touches in the regular season. The Vikings want to reduce the 30-year-old’s workload a bit, which is part of the reason why they made the Mason trade. Still, Jones will be a key weapon for young quarterback J.J. McCarthy and could perhaps improve his per-carry efficiency in tandem with Mason behind Minnesota’s upgraded offensive line. Chandler had a strong finish to the 2023 season but is a distant third on the depth chart heading into a contract year, which made it slightly surprising the Vikings didn’t draft a running back this year.




Andrew Van Ginkel Shares Thanks for Contract Extension, More Time in Vikings Defense

“First off, I just want to start by thanking the Wilf Family for, obviously, adding another year to my contract,” Van Ginkel said Wednesday, speaking to reporters for the first time since his extension April 29. “I love this place. I love this organization. It’s a family atmosphere, and it’s a big part of who I am.

“I’m just thankful for my wife and kids, and being able to be in this city, this organization and state, is a blessing,” the 29-year-old added after concluding Minnesota’s second Organized Team Activity practice of 2025.

“Spending a majority of my career with Flores, I kind of know all the ins and outs, and I kind of know the expectations; what he’s trying to get done, and how we’re trying to attack different offenses,” Gink’ said.

Van Ginkel pointed out that Flores’ defense hinges on versatility, which he prides himself on.

“You have to be ready to adjust on the fly,” he emphasized, noting one of the draws of playing for Minnesota. “At any moment the game plan can change, or the scheme can change, and something that makes me love this defense is I’m versatile; I can play many positions, and I think me and Flo’ think alike.

“He’s always trying to evolve, he’s always trying to be one step ahead, and that’s one thing I love about him,” Van Ginkel continued. “He’s open to hearing what we recommend, or what we think will work.”


“J.A. (Jonathan Allen), ‘Graves (Javon Hargrave), all these guys that came in, you know, they’re bringing the right people in,” Van Ginkel said about the roster adds, singling out a couple interior d-linemen that could feasibly elevate his game on the edge. “They built a culture here and they’re sticking to it, and props to K.O. (Head Coach Kevin O’Connell) – kind of his standard, his expectations, and just filling voids.”

Regarding the not-so-surprising choice by captain Harrison Smith to return for Year 14, Van Ginkel quipped he was on the fence over any shock: “I am, but I ain’t,” he said, smiling and shaking his head.

“He’s a guy that loves football, he loves being around the guys, and just being able to develop a relationship with him is special,” Van Ginkel added. “And, you know, he’s still got more left in the tank.”

Van Ginkel, too. And then some.

“Obviously, we love it here,” Van Ginkel reiterated. “We wanted to be here, and anytime you can just get an extension, get more security, it’s something that I wanted and I’m glad that we could get it done.”




Kevin O’Connell Named Horrigan Award Winner by PFWA

O’Connell has been named the 2025 Horrigan Award Winner, the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) announced Friday. The honor comes on the heels of his third season at the Vikings helm, during which he led Minnesota to a 14-3 record in the regular season and appearance in the postseason.

According to the PFWA, the award is given annually to a league, club or other official for his or her qualities and professional style in helping the pro football writers do their job. The following was written of O’Connell for consideration:

O’Connell stands out from his coaching peers because of his openness and helpfulness with reporters. He routinely gives 1-on-1 interviews, meets regularly with beat writers for off-the-record discussions, provides thoughtful explanations for his decisions after games, and he creates an environment for both players and assistant coaches — like Grant Udinski, the assistant QB coach who became the Jaguars offensive coordinator — feel free to tell their stories.




NFL announces Vikings preseason dates, including national CBS game

The NFL released all the details for the preseason on Thursday, and Minnesota will open Saturday, Aug. 9 at 3 p.m. CT against the Texans inside U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.

The Vikings will then host joint practices with the New England Patriots the following week before hosting the Patriots in the second preseason game on Saturday, Aug. 16. That’ll be a 12 p.m. CT kickoff.

The preseason wraps up with the Vikings on the road against the Tennessee Titans on Friday, Aug. 22. That’ll be a 7 p.m. CT kickoff and the game will be televised on CBS. The Vikings-Titans matchup is one of only five preseason games that’ll receive national television coverage.

Hall of Fame Game: Chargers vs. Lions on July 31 (NBC)

Bills at Bears on Aug. 17 (FOX)

Bengals at Commanders on Aug. 18 (ESPN)

Patriots at Giants on Aug. 21 (Prime Video)

Vikings at Titans on Aug. 22 (CBS)




Yore Mock

Trade Recap​

Minnesota Receives: 2026: Round 1, Pick 24, 2026: Round 3, Pick 88​

San Francisco Receives: 2026: Round 1, Pick 18​

..​

Minnesota Receives: 2026: Round 4, Pick 107, 2026: Round 6, Pick 186​

Indianapolis Receives: 2026: Round 3, Pick 88​

...​


24. Dillon Thieneman S Oregon 6’0” 207

50. D.J. McKinney CB Colorado 6’2” 190

82. Zxavian Harris DL Ole Miss 6’6” 320

97. T.J. Guy EDGE Michigan 6’4” 250

107. Jaydn Ott RB Oklahoma 6’0” 210

118. Iapani Laloulu IOL Oregon 6’2” 325

174. Ethan Onianwa OT Ohio State 6’6” 335

186. Taylen Green QB Arkansas 6’6” 230

232. Devon Jackson LB Oregon 6’2” 230





Again, we all know the rules, but in case someone is new:

  • No discussion of politics or religion
  • No feeding of the trolls
  • Leave the gender hatred at the door
  • Keep the bad language to a minimum (using the spoiler tags, if you must)
  • Speaking of which, if discussing a newer show or movie, please use spoiler tags
  • No pictures that could get someone fired or in serious trouble with their employer
  • If you can’t disagree in a civil manner, feel free to go away
  • While navigating the open thread, just assume it’s sarcasm

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...thy-kevin-oconnell-javon-hargrave-aaron-jones
 
Where We Debate the Vikings’ Worst Trade of the Past Decade

NFL: International Series-NFL UK Live

Whenever there is an excuse to bring back this picture, we will bring back this picture. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Because the topic has come up

With this being the long, dark tea time of the offseason in the National Football League, we’re looking for nearly anything we can to potentially spark debate about the Minnesota Vikings. Thanks to the folks at Bleacher Report, we have a topic for such a thing.

BR put together a list of what they feel is the worst trade each team in the NFL has made in the last 10 years. For the Vikings, they chose the trade the team made for quarterback Sam Bradford before the start of the 2016 season.

Now, in hindsight, sure. . .it might not have been a great trade. But at the time, Rick Spielman didn’t have the benefit of hindsight. He had a team that was expected to compete in the NFC, had just lost their starting quarterback to a horrendous freak injury, and was staring down the barrel of potentially starting Shaun Hill for 16 games. That sort of context is important when looking at trades.

Plus, it’s not as if Bradford was actively awful or anything. He spent that 2016 season behind an offensive line that was pulling guys off of their couches to start games and, in a development that was pretty miraculous given Bradford’s injury history, started all 15 of the Vikings’ games after Hill started the opener. Plus, if you go back to the 2017 season opener, he looked downright magical and appeared poised to lead the team on a real run.

Honestly, there are several significantly worse trades over the past decade from this team that I can think of. Here are a couple of examples.

Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s first-ever draft trade (2022)​


We all remember this one. The Vikings were poised to pick at #12 in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and rather than make a pick, they made a trade with their division rivals from Detroit to move all the way down to #32. Compounding the problem was the fact that the player they selected at #32, safety Lewis Cine, played just four games as a rookie because of a nasty leg injury and never found a spot with the Vikings, getting waived after just two seasons.

The Yannick Ngakoue trade(s) (2020)​


The Vikings needed some pass rush help ahead of the 2021 season, so they made a deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars to acquire Yannick Ngakoue, who had averaged about nine sacks a year over his first four seasons. The Vikings gave up a second-round pick and a conditional fifth-round pick to acquire Ngakoue’s services. Ngakoue then proceeded to put up five sacks in his first six games in a Vikings uniform.

Then. . .for whatever reason. . .the Vikings decided to trade Ngakoue to the Baltimore Ravens for a third-round pick and a conditional fifth-round pick the next season. So, they lost ground in the draft for the privilege of having Ngakoue in uniform for six games. Sadder still is the fact that the five sacks that Ngakoue picked up in the first six weeks of that season were still enough to lead the 2020 Vikings in that category.

The Kaare Vedvik trade (2019)​


Veteran kicker Dan Bailey was coming off a fairly awful 2018 season, so the Vikings thought they’d bring in some competition for him. Usually, when teams bring in competition for a kicker, they grab someone off the street or something. Instead, the Vikings decided to send a fifth-round pick to the Ravens in exchange for Vedvik, who had done both kicking and punting during the preseason for Baltimore. Vedvik had gone 4-for-4 on field goal attempts, including a 55-yarder, in Baltimore’s first preseason game, and the Vikings made the trade a few days later.

Vedvik wound up being in Minnesota for a little less than three weeks, as Bailey ultimately won the job. So, not only did the Vikings burn a draft choice to acquire a kicker, they did so to acquire a kicker who never even suited up for them in the regular season. Woof.

Those are some of the actual worst trades the Vikings have made over the last decade. Which one do you think was the most egregious?

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/6/1/24441114/debate-minnesota-vikings-worst-trade-past-decade
 
Vikings 2025 OTAs: McCarthy Impressing, Kwesi Extended, & More!

NFL: MAY 10 Minnseota Vikings Rookie Camp

J.J. McCarthy shone in Vikings’ 2025 OTAs, showing sharp footwork, zip on throws, and command. No regression from preseason, fully recovered from meniscus injury. Veterans like Jefferson support him, building chemistry for a strong season. All this on Two Old Bloggers.

The Minnesota Vikings’ 2025 OTAs spark excitement as J.J. McCarthy impresses, veterans rally, and GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah secures an extension. Join Darren Campbell and Dave Stefano on Two Old Bloggers, for seasoned insights. Is this the year the Vikings conquer?

In the latest episode of Two Old Bloggers, hosts Darren Campbell and Dave Stefano dive into the Minnesota Vikings’ 2025 Organized Team Activities (OTAs), offering fans a detailed look at the team’s early preparations for a highly anticipated season. With a 14-3 record in 2024, the Vikings are under pressure to maintain their momentum, and this episode captures the optimism surrounding second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy’s standout performance, the team’s unified veteran presence, and significant front-office moves. Aired on the Vikings 1st & SKOL, the show blends passionate fan-driven analysis with seasoned commentary, making it a must-listen for Vikings faithful eager for updates on their team’s journey toward a potential Super Bowl run.

The episode’s key themes, from McCarthy’s promising OTA showing to the strategic extensions and promotions solidifying the Vikings’ leadership. The hosts also spotlight players under scrutiny, such as edge rusher Dallas Turner and the revamped interior offensive line, setting the stage for a season of high expectations. Whether you’re curious about McCarthy’s readiness, the impact of Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s leadership, or the potential of emerging stars, this episode delivers the insights you need to stay ahead of the NFL curve.

Key Points of the Episode:

  • J.J. McCarthy’s OTA Performance: McCarthy demonstrated strong footwork, zip on his throws, and command, showing no regression from his rookie preseason despite a prior meniscus injury.
  • Veteran Commitment: Key players like Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson, and Jordan Addison attended OTAs voluntarily, building chemistry with McCarthy.
  • Front-Office Moves: GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah received a multi-year extension, while Ryan Grigson and Demetrius Washington were promoted to assistant GMs, signaling stability.
  • Jalen Redmond’s Rise: The UFL-to-NFL standout played 24 games in 2024, earning a significant role on the defensive line for 2025.
  • Players Under Scrutiny: Dallas Turner, Theo Jackson, Isaiah Rogers, Aaron Jones, and the interior offensive line (Ryan Kelly, Will Fries, Donovan Jackson) face high expectations to elevate the team.

Listen:

Watch:


Don’t miss this episode of Two Old Bloggers on Vikings 1st & SKOL, where Darren and Dave unpack the Vikings’ 2025 OTA highlights and set the stage for a thrilling season. With McCarthy poised to lead, a fortified roster, and a front office locked in, the SKOL Nation is buzzing. Tune in on the Fans First Sports Network, follow on X and Facebook, and join the conversation to see if the Vikings can turn their 14-3 magic into a Super Bowl triumph!

Fan With Us!


We have your Minnesota Vikings talk amongst the Two Old Bloggers, Darren @KickassblogVike, and Dave @Luft_Krigare. Join the conversation! Fan with us at Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and with our podcast partner Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN and Fans First Sports Network’s NFL feed @FFSN_NFL where you get sports takes for the fan, from the fan!

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...-otas-mccarthy-impressing-kwesi-extended-more
 
Vikings roll dice on another Clemson CB in new 2026 mock draft

2024 ACC Football Championship - Clemson v SMU

Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images

The Vikings could end up regretting not taking a cornerback in the 2025 NFL Draft. If so, the 2026 draft class has some good players, including Clemson’s Avieon Terrell.

Leading into this year’s draft, it sure felt like the Vikings were going to come away with a new cornerback at some point during the three-day event, but surprisingly that wasn’t the case. As it stands, the defense’s top trio at corner is made up of Byron Murphy Jr, Mekhi Blackmon, and free-agent signing Isaiah Rodgers.

I don’t think it’s crazy to suggest that this starting trio isn’t necessarily bad, but I also wouldn’t call it a good one either. Murphy Jr. is a legitimate player, but Blackmon missed all of the 2024 season with an injury and Rodgers will be learning a new system. This is why adding a new body within the first three rounds made sense.

But alas, that’s in the past. But because of their decision to forego a corner, Vikings fans may end up having to watch their team get paired with a cornerback for the next 11 months.

Just like I’m about to show you right now!

In a new 2026 mock from CBS Sports NFL analyst Ryan Wilson, with the 20th pick in the draft — hey! that’s a playoff appearance! — the Vikings selected Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell, the younger brother of current Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell.

“Has NFL bloodlines — his brother is former first-round pick A.J. Terrell. Avieon plays bigger than his listed size (see his matchup with former Stanford WR Elic Ayomanor). He can stay in phase on vertical routes and has good ball skills — he will try to bait the QB into making throws. In run support, he plays outside CB like he’s a strong safety.”

As a true freshman for the Tigers, the 5’11, 180-pound Terrell started five games while playing in 13 total contests. He ended that year with 19 tackles, four pass breakups, and a lone interception. His sophomore season saw him breakout a bit with a career-high 12 pass breakups and two interceptions to go with 58 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, one sack, and three forced fumbles. It was an impressive seasons that has obviously put him on track to potentially join his brother as a first-round pick should he declare for next year’s draft.

On film, Terrell plays bigger than his listed measurements and he showed that against the larger wideouts he faced on the 2024 schedule. Scouts have described his style of play as a “strong safety playing outside cornerback” with the way he brings his pads behind him on tackle attempts. In coverage, he possesses fluid hips and the transition skills to stay in the hip pockets of receivers all over the field. Through two collegiate seasons, he also looks to be just as good at executing man coverage responsibilities as he does zone assignments.

To put a cherry on top for Terrell, he can also bring return value to an NFL team, as well. He averaged 32.1 yards per kickoff and 15.8 yards per punt return while in high school.


Watched some 2026 prospects today. Very impressed by Avieon Terrell pic.twitter.com/GXtQE77jhJ

— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) April 28, 2025

So what do you all think of this pick for the Vikings? Yay or nay? Let us know all of your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: https://www.dailynorseman.com/2025/...ieon-terrell-2026-mock-nfl-aj-terrell-clemson
 
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