Yes, among other things… Most notably for the Vikings, as they went through the motions down in Indianapolis over the last handful of days, general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and head coach Kevin O’Connell were trying to find a tag and trade market for 27-year-old quarterback Sam Darnold.

Minnesota Vikings still deciding what to do at quarterback…

With JJ McCarthy reportedly healthy and successfully gaining weight, it appears the No. 10 overall pick from last year’s draft will be ready for the start of offseason workouts. But that doesn’t mean Minnesota is ready to hand the offensive reigns over to their redshirt rookie QB.

In fact, there were a couple of storylines out of Indy that makes you wonder if the Minnesota Vikings might be interested in any of the top quarterbacks available this April. When the combine first got started, Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders was spotted walking around the streets outside of Lucas Oil Stadium with a Vikings hat hanging from the back of his backpack.

That may not have projected Vikings interest in Sanders, but at the least, it was definitely a signal to O’Connell and Kwesi that one of the top two QBs in this draft class was interested in finding his way to Minnesota. Of course, the likelihood of Shedeur Sanders landing in purple is still miniscule.

Vikings met with Miami QB Cam Ward at NFL Combine

But then, another NFL insider report dropped on Sunday that makes you wonder WTF the Vikings have planned over the next two months. According to the longtime NFL reporter, Jeremy Fowler (ESPN) — who covered the Vikings for the Pioneer Press from 2010-2012 — Kevin O’Connell and the Minnesota Vikings met with Miami Hurricanes QB and the projected top quarterback selected on April 24, Cam Ward (Miami) at the combine.

One more interesting nugget that might mean nothing but is at least noteworthy: The Vikings interviewed Cam Ward at the combine.

Jeremy Fowler – ESPN

Is Cam Ward the best QB prospect in 2025? (via @MoveTheSticks)

📺: #NFLCombine on @NFLNetwork
📱: Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/NfiTnjwWUr

— NFL (@NFL) March 1, 2025

As Fowler notes, the meeting between Ward and the Vikings may wind up as nothing more than a footnote in NFL combine history. We know Kevin O’Connell is fascinated by quarterbacks, and getting to know the best QB talent coming into the league is never a bad idea. But it is worth wondering whether or not there is more to their meeting than two QBs getting to know each other.

Cam Ward played the first part of his D1 college career at Washington State, where he racked up 6,968 yards passing (65.5% completion rate), 48 touchdowns and 16 interceptions during his two starting seasons as a Cougar, before transferring to Miami (FL).

Related: Vikings Desperately Want Byron Murphy Jr… But They Aren’t Alone

In his one season with the Hurricanes, Ward raised his completion percentage to 67.2%, while throwing for more yards (4,313) and touchdowns (39 – lead nation) than he ever did at Washington State, where he topped out at 25 touchdowns as a junior.

Louis Riddick just said on SportsCenter he thinks Cam Ward will be a “superstar” in the NFL “right away”.

Was all over Jayden Daniels and CJ Stroud. Good track record. Interesting…

— Grant Puskar (@grant_puskar_) March 1, 2025

On defense, the Gophers proved they were more than just Joe Rossi, who left at the end of 2023, to take the defensive coordinator job at Michigan State. Under one-and-done DC Corey Hetherman, the 2024 Golden Gophers defense ranked No. 9 in points allowed (16.9 PPG) and No. 5 in total yards allowed (285.7 YPG).

PJ Fleck coined the phrase “Row the Boat” long before he arrived at the University of Minnesota. But he doesn’t just wear those words out with his mouth. He lives by his favorite motto, and expects the same out of his football players.

The culture PJ has built in Dinkytown, and the way he lives his life, may rub haters the wrong way. But the now eight-year head coach has proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that he knows how to develop kids with football talent into responsible, hard-working men who excel on the football field.

This week at the NFL Combine, multiple Minnesota Gophers are trying to prove to NFL scouts, coaches and executives that they should spend one of their April draft picks on their football future. When asked about PJ Fleck or the Golden Gophers football program, they’ve gushed over the man and the program that helped raise them into them men they are today.

Justin Walley speaks highly of Minnesota Gophers culture

Justin Walley is one of a record six Minnesota Gophers prospects who received an NFL Combine invite this offseason. The U of M CB1 should hear his name called by the end of the draft on April 27. Once drafted, Walley will have the opportunity to be the next key former Gopher wreaking havoc for an NFL defense.

Walley played his entire collegiate career at the University of Minnesota, a rare feat for any college football player these days. After hearing him talk abou Fleck and the Gophers program at the combine, you can see why he never left, even though he was one of the top cornerbacks in the Big Ten since his sophomore season.

#Gophers Justin Walley talking about the impact of P.J. Fleck. pic.twitter.com/EkQcATR6s3

— GopherHole.com (@GopherHole) February 28, 2025

“It’s great. I mean, he really creates a brotherhood. I know in this day and age with NIL and the portal it’s really hard to have a team that’s all in for each other. The culture there just creates that.”

Justin Walley on playing for P.J. Fleck

The premise of a slogan like Row the Boat can’t be hollow. If something like that becomes a goofy tagline then P.J. Fleck immediately struggles with a level of credibility. Walley suggesting that the culture and brotherhood at Minnesota is amazing truly means the players grab an oar and willingly row right alongside their head coach.

Related: Revealed: Why Gophers LB is Sitting Out NFL Combine Drills

Fleck’s MN Gophers program will never have the same NIL funds or lucrative avenues to land talent against premier schools. That forces the team into a blueprint of development and buy in. The more that Fleck can create a culture where players stay and grow, the better his teams will be for it.

Walley played 49 games for the Gophers across a four-year collegiate career. He racked up 113 tackles along with seven interceptions, two of which came this season. Walley scored his first pick six and had a career-best ten passes defensed as well.

The Minnesota standout showed well in the speed department at the combine as well. Despite sporting a cast on his hand, Walley ripped off a 4.4 time in the 40-yard dash. NFL teams will certainly enjoy utilizing that speed in their secondary.

Justin Walley 4.40 unofficial 40 pic.twitter.com/lDhmN0PNKU

— Billy M (@BillyM_91) February 28, 2025

Related: Four-Star CB Commits to Gophers Over Big Money Helmet Schools

As a defensive back, he will be looking to make an impact at the next level. Minnesota has fared well with their safeties at the highest level, but Walley can generate a name for the cornerbacks.

Next season presents a schedule that P.J. Fleck and his team should feel good about. The Minnesota Gophers can compete in virtually every contest they have lined up, and it could result in a double-digit winning record.

Max Brosmer felt Minnesota Gophers culture too

Walley had played for the P.J. Fleck in each of his four collegiate seasons. Minnesota recruited Max Brosmer as a transfer player and he felt the same culture Walley discussed, despite his time being brief. When asked what stuck out to him about his time at the University of Minnesota, Brosmer again pointed to PJ Fleck and the unity his culture breeds.

QB Max Brosmer on Minnesota putting together a good stretch during the season pic.twitter.com/rbarKlsBII

— Damon Wolfe (@NFLinMotion) February 28, 2025

“Unity I think. After the Michigan game. I think the unity piece was there, but actually proving to ourselves that we can do it. I remember coach Fleck’s postgame speech after Michigan was the most incredible postgame speech I’ve ever heard in my life…The feeling you had in the locker room, after a loss, was nothing that I had ever been a part of. After that we just hit the ground running.”

Max Brosmer on the Gophers unity this season

It’s not at all surprising that Brosmer gets it. He displayed a high level of leadership all season and should have a long NFL career because of his ability between the ears.

The ability to come into a new environment and immediately set a higher standard for your teammates, while also earning their trust, allin a short period of time shows the type of leader the NFL is getting in the Gophers’ one and done QB.

Max Brosmer’s 2,800 yards passing, and 18/6 TD/INT ratio, will go down as one of the best QB seasons in University of Minnesota history. He won’t be day one pick, and could even slip to day three, but there’s no doubt he can add a lot of talent, brainpower and work ethic to whatever NFL locker room he joins.

Culture shows in MN Gophers staying as well

Walley briefly touched on the ever-changing landscape of college football. With NIL money and the transfer portal being prevalent now, players have more opportunities than ever. When guys like Koi Perich and Darius Taylor stick with the program that has begun to build them, it speaks to P.J. Fleck’s culture as well.

Related: Minnesota Gophers Hire Fresh Face as New RB Coach

The Minnesota native Perich racked up accolades and quickly earned playing time at Minnesota. He certainly would have had opportunities to play elsewhere. That didn’t happen. Taylor has been a standout in his first two seasons with the Gophers. He could have had other opportunities but isn’t leaving either.

This week, the football world has gathered in Indianapolis for the annual NFL Combine, an event that has become notorious for spandex, rumors and league drama. But most importantly, the combine has become a default early offseason meeting place where all 32 NFL teams can gain insight on rival plans and organize their own, before free agency (March 12) and the draft (April 24).

2025 NFL Combine means QB clarity for Minnesota Vikings

For the Vikings, the this week in Indy represented answers to their biggest question. How does the offseason market view Sam Darnold? If his trade market felt like it would be robust, they were hoping to discuss possible tag and trade scenarios with interested teams. If not, most expect the Vikings to let their 2024 MVP candidate walk to free agency, so they can officially begin the JJ McCarthy era in Minnesota.

Before the combine, however, a narrative had already started forming around the MN Vikings’ plans for Darnold. Most local and national reports, as recently as last week, were pushing the idea that tagging Darnold was too risky. That there was no guarantee of Darnold trade market that would make that tag worth it.

The Vikings still have all options available when it comes to Darnold. They could sign him to a multiyear extension. Unlikely. They could franchise-tag him. Possible. They could allow him to depart via free agency. Most likely. Whether or not the franchise tag becomes an option depends on whether another team would be willing to trade for Darnold.

That’s the question: Does that team exist?

Alec Lewis – The Athletic

Franchise tagging Sam Darnold runs the risk of being stuck with him and his $40M+ cap hit in 2025. That’s not the best problem to have if Kevin O’Connell wants to move on to JJ McCarthy. It was this runaway narrative that caused me to write about the half-dozen quarterbacks traded over the last decade, who have garnered a 1st round pick or more in return, for the team trading the.

Related: Shedeur Sanders Sending Not So Subtle Signal to Minnesota Vikings at NFL Combine

Those 1st round compensation QBs include happy-ending massage enthusiast (allegedly) Deshaun Watson (2022), a broken Carson Wentz (2021), an over-the-hill Russell Wilson (2022) and degenerative knees Sam Bradford (2016), among others. If the Minnesota Vikings let Sam Darnold walk for nothing more than a 2026 3rd round comp pick, I wrote, it should be considered “organizational malpractice”.

Sam Darnold market revealing itself at NFL Combine…?

After reports ping ponged back and forth early this week, with some insiders spreading word that the Vikings were looking to tag and trade Darnold, while others stayed with the pre-combine narrative… it appears the final feeling coming out of the NFL combine on Friday is very similar to what it was last week, prior to everyone emerging on Indy.

The MN Vikings are afraid to franchise tag Sam Darnold, because they are not confident in his market. If that’s the decision they make, March 4 will come and go without any news and Darnold will be free to negotiate with other teams when the legal tampering period begins on March 10.

“The Vikings do not anticipate tagging Sam Darnold” ahead of the tag deadline on March 4th and will let him test free agency according to @Andrew_Krammer on his guest appearance of Vikings Happy Hour

Full episode: https://t.co/DKryKyea8Z pic.twitter.com/KmnwBJXfw1

— Matt Anderson (@MattAnderson_8) February 28, 2025

If the Raiders don’t land Stafford, it’s unlikely that they’ll make a large financial commitment to another veteran quarterback who’s expected to be available this offseason, according to league sources. Las Vegas has three quarterbacks on its roster — Aidan O’Connell, Gardner Minshew and Carter Bradley — but none of them have proven themselves to be a viable starter.

Dianna Russini – The Athletic

This entire situation has made me incredibly skeptical of whether or not Kwesi Adofo-Mensah is capable of running an NFL front office. There are already all sorts of questions surrounding his talent as an evaluator, and he’s struggled to come out ahead in trade calculations for Dallas Turner, and other maneuvering he has done during the draft.

MN Vikings cannot extend Kwesi Adofo-Mensah

At this point, it seems very possible that Kwesi is not a good negotiator, and does not understand the nuances and value of dictating the narrative that is running through insider circles. If he can’t sit down in a room with opposing NFL decision makers and regularly win in negotiations… then why do the Minnesota Vikings have him in that role?

The rumors and reports surrounding Darnold, since before the offseason ended, have been controlled by other teams and those inside Sam Darnold’s circle. As you can see from a recent Alec Lewis report below, those inside the Vikings organization haven’t even been trying to sell other teams on Darnold being worth anything.

Kwesi couldn't sell water in a desert lol pic.twitter.com/8amCjwcbSj

— Minnesota Sports Fan (@realmnsportsfan) February 28, 2025

Then, when it came time to sit down with front office leaders, Kwesi couldn’t flip the script, then evacuated Indianapolis early due to a mysterious illness. Say it with me: ‘Organizational Malpractice’.

Over the past few years, we’ve seen a noticeable uptick in future NFL stars choosing to skip drills at the Draft Combine. In the current sports landscape, self-preservation is key as athletes are increasingly focused on avoiding injuries that could jeopardize their careers. Naturally, top quarterbacks often prefer showcasing their skills in the familiar, controlled setting of their university’s Pro Day. Meanwhile, players at other positions have their own compelling reasons for bypassing the Combine’s drill sessions, also opting instead to shine at their Pro Day events.

Cody Lindenberg is among the new school record, of six Minnesota Gophers attending the NFL Combine. Lindenberg had a very nice showing during the Senior Bowl, but he won’t be participating during the drills portion in Indianapolis.

Minnesota Gophers Cody Lindenberg underwent surgery

Standout MN Gophers linebacker Cody Lindenberg was invited to the NFL Combine, after capping a strong collegiate career. He will talk with evaluators and undergo physical testing, but hernia surgery keeps him out of individual drills, reports Star Tribune journalist Andrew Krammer.

“Gophers linebacker Cody Lindenberg will not run drills Thursday with other linebackers at the NFL scouting combine. Lindenberg, the Gophers’ leading tackler last season as a redshirt senior, is recovering from Dec. 2 sports hernia surgery, his agent, Blake Baratz, told the Star Tribune on Wednesday. Lindenberg said he plans to run every drill at Gophers pro day March 19.”

Krammer on Lindenberg’s participation (Star Tribune)

It’s pretty impressive that Lindenberg was able to play in the Senior Bowl, despite still recovering from his surgery. The Mobile, Alabama Senior Bowl spectacle took place on February 1, which means that Lindenberg was playing just two months after going under the knife.

Related: Minnesota Gophers Hire Fresh Face as New RB Coach

The Anoka, Minnesota native honed his skills over five years as a standout linebacker for the Minnesota Gophers. This isn’t Lindenberg’s first brush with injury, though. His ability to bounce back time and again showcases the kind of grit and determination that’s sure to catch the attention of NFL reps this week. As he meets with them, he’ll likely highlight that resilience, while working to ease any concerns about his injury history.

Last season Lindenberg played 12 games for P.J. Fleck’s 7-5 Gophers squad, but he sat out of the Duke’s Mayo Bowl victory to prepare for the Draft. He led the team in tackles over the season with 94, and he generated five tackles for loss. He also picked up just the second sack of his career, along with his first interception.

2023 was a tough season for Lindenberg, as he played just four games for the Minnesota Gophers during his junior season. The difficult part for Lindenberg is that was after starting 13 games the year prior, as a sophomore. Lindenberg understands what he has been through, and knows it will help him to push through this injury, avoiding a setback.

“The hardships, the good times, everything has prepared you for this whether you know it or not or whether you’re being intentional with it or not. It all builds up to this moment…It’s the work that really sets you apart.”

Lindenberg on his journey (Star Tribune)

“It’s not what you do, it’s how you do it.”

Proud of you, @cody_lindenberg 〽️ #RTB #SkiUMah #Gophers pic.twitter.com/mcScj9V6fp

— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) February 26, 2025

Minnesota has remained home for Lindenberg as he played college football just minutes from where he took the field in high school. The Vikings don’t necessarily have a pressing need at linebacker, but it would be neat to see him paired up with another former Gopher and Minnesota native Blake Cashman.

Wherever Lindenberg winds up, an NFL team will get a battle-tested prospect who holds 38 games of college experience under his belt. He helped to elevate the Minnesota Gophers defense this past season, and should have a good shot to contribute at the next level.

Related: Four-Star CB Commits to Gophers Over Big Money Helmet Schools

The first decision they need to make is at quarterback. That’s why, around the combine this week, there is a lot of talk surrounding what Minnesota will do with 2024 starting QB Sam Darnold, who is due to hit free agency in less than two weeks, along with all those other pending Vikings UFAs.

One thing the Minnesota Vikings are not expected to do this offseason is trade up in the NFL Draft to take a top quarterback, like they did last April, when they moved up one spot in order to secure Michigan QB JJ McCarthy. After a season of recovery from two meniscus surgeries, he is the betting favorite to be Vikings QB1 in 2025.

Shedeur Sanders Sporting a Minnesota Vikings Hat at NFL Combine

With that being said, what if I told you that one of the most polarizing quarterback prospects of our lifetime seems to be sending out signals this week at the NFL combine in the direction of our favorite football team?

Because that’s exactly what happened on Wednesday, when Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders was spotted outside of Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis with a Minnesota Vikings hat hanging from his backpack, along with three other teams (Browns, Saints and maybe Jets).

Shedeur Sanders was spotted walking around the NFL Combine wearing Browns, Vikings, and Saints hats hanging on his backpack.

Sanders is keeping all his options open 👀 pic.twitter.com/JBqsP8sYEg

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 27, 2025

Arguments are raging on the internet as to the motive behind Sanders’ choices. But let’s be real, those hats are not picked at random. But that begs to question, why are the Vikings hanging there? Does Shedeur Sanders really believe he has any chance at landing with the Minnesota Vikings in the draft next month?

Related: New Perfect Fit Trade Targets Come Available for Vikings

It makes sense Sanders would be interested in wearing purple, given the QB acumen of Kevin O’Connell and the player-friendly environment at TCO Performance Center. With that being said, Shedeur and Miami’s Cam Ward are undoubtedly the two best quarterbacks in this draft class. Both will almost certainly be taken in the top ten.

Should Vikings be interested in Sanders?

As a senior at Colorado, Shedeur Sanders threw for 4,134 yards, 37 touchdowns and just 10 interceptions. His 74.0% completion rate led the entire nation. Even more impressive, he also led the country in pass attempts (477).

Shedeur is THAT guy🥶
Sanders Highlights⬇️#SkoBuffs | #Big12FB | @Big12Conference pic.twitter.com/cm8PuNMmoJ

— Big 12 Studios (@big12studios) November 10, 2024

The Minnesota Vikings’ first pick in April’s draft is currently slotted at No. 24, meaning some serious moves would have to be made, in order for Sanders to land in Minnesota. For example, it’s possible the Titans would take McCarthy in exchange for their No. 3 overall pick, which would move the Vikings in range to draft Shedeur.

But to this point, there has been ZERO buzz that head coach Kevin O’Connell has any interest in blowing up the JJ McCarthy plan in any way, or that the Vikings are sniffing around the top quarterbacks in this class. Still, there’s really no denying Shedeur Sanders strategically chose the four teams he did, which is why we are here discussing this in the first place.

Related: Vikings Insider Hints at Possible Return of Legendary Safety

Up to this point, the Minnesota Vikings have made it clear they are targeting interior linemen this offseason, whether via free agency, trade or the 2025 NFL Draft. Lucky for them the iOL and iDL markets appear to be more saturated than normal, no matter where you look.

Will Kwesi and KOC blow all of that up, and shift their QB plans toward Sanders? Probably not… but it’s also possible Deion and those helping Shedeur navigate the draft process know something we don’t, too…

This week holds special weight for NFL front offices, who are busy engaging with other teams about possible trades and sitting down with newcomers to the league. Among them, the Minnesota Vikings have their sights set on a standout prospect—the Heisman runner-up.

Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty to meet with the Minnesota Vikings

Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, who just wrapped up one of the best seasons in college football history — racking up 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns in just 14 games — is meeting with the Vikings today, according to NFL analyst Ryan Fowler.

The following teams have formal meetings scheduled with Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty, per source:

• Giants
• Broncos
• Vikings
• Steelers
• Colts
• Bears
• Chargers
• Ravens
• Saints

— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) February 25, 2025

Jeanty narrowly missed out on the Heisman Trophy, which was awarded to two-way Colorado Buffaloes superstar Travis Hunter. According to Fowler, Ashton Jeanty has meetings lined up with nine different teams. Among the teams interested in Jeanty are the Vikings’ division rival, Chicago Bears.

Related: Successful Sam Darnold Experiment Proved Vikings Don’t Need Him in 2025

In his final season at Boise State, the 5-9, 215 lb workhorse back averaged a ridiculous 185.8 rushing yards per game, easily No. 1 in the nation by more than 50 yards per game. When will Jeanty hear his name called during the NFL Draft in a couple months? USA Today has him going No. 12 overall to the Dallas Cowboys.

It’s hard to choose just one but this might be my favorite Ashton Jeanty run from last year because 9 different defenders have a chance to make a tackle and none can. pic.twitter.com/ILpzKQkPJ2

— Field Yates (@FieldYates) February 25, 2025

With Aaron Jones not under contract for next season and the Vikings making it clear they’re not bringing him back on the same deal or with the same workload, they could be in the market for a running back in the draft. If Jeanty is still on the board at No. 24, landing him could be a home run pick for the Vikings.

Related: Newly Available DT Interested in Playing for Vikings…

Imagine if Ashton Jeanty suited up in purple as the Minnesota Vikings’ franchise running back with his unique stance. Pair him with a young core featuring McCarthy, Jefferson, and Addison, and this offense could be a nightmare for defenses for years to come. If Minnesota finds a way to land him, things would get very interesting.

But that doesn’t mean the scouting portion of the combine doesn’t happen. Already on Monday, NFL teams started meeting with draft prospects. One of those prospects in attendance this week is Minnesota Gophers linebacker Cody Lindenberg, who is homegrown out of Anoka, MN.

Minnesota Gophers linebacker Cody Lindenberg sitting out parts of NFL Combine

Cody will be in Indy, meeting with coaches and executives around the league, but he will not be a full participant. According to Darren Wolfson (KSTP), Lindenberg will not take part in any of the physical drills or tests at the NFL Combine late this week. It sounds like he is nursing some sort of injury…

Former #Gophers LB Cody Lindenberg (Anoka HS) will wait until Pro Day March 19th to do on-the-field testing. He’ll still do interviews this week at the Combine. The extra 3ish weeks give him a chance to be 100 percent. pic.twitter.com/rKtNNtOAYT

— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) February 24, 2025

Cody Linenberg played five seasons of college football (2020-2024), all of which were played at home with the Minnesota Gophers. After dealing with injuries that plagued much of his collegiate career, Lindenberg played 38 games, totaling 209 tackles, 8 passes defended, 1 interception and 1 forced fumble.

This season was only the second in which Lindenberg has stayed healthy throughout, and the numbers show that. In his final season as a Golden Gopher, Cody Lindenberg easily led Minnesota in tackles, with 94.

Related: Record Number of Minnesota Gophers Invited to NFL Scouting Combine

The second-most prolific tackler for Minnesota last season was Maverick Baranowski, who totaled 65 tackles. For those who struggle in the math department, that’s 29 less than his middle linebacking partner.

What will Lindenberg bring to NFL?

Lindenberg, a late-round projected pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, posted a 72.2 defensive PFF grade last season. His 79.3 run defense grade was good for 3rd on the team, behind only freshman safeties Kerry Brown and Koi Perich.

Every NFL team is looking for big 'backers who can run and Minnesota's Cody Lindenberg (6030e, 240e) is one of 𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐬𝐢𝐳𝐞/𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐬 in this year's LB class.

Checkout #45 run with shallow crosser here👇and then attack downhill with perfect timing for the sack… https://t.co/zHF79GkPhm pic.twitter.com/OJKO77gGlE

— Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_SB) October 17, 2024

Lindenberg is one of those linebacker prospects that reminds me a lot of Blake Cashman or Jack Gibbens, who have both found regular roles at the NFL level, after being drafted out of Minnesota.

Related: Minnesota QB Max Brosmer Gets THE Invite

Cody Lindenberg is a smart football player who will work hard to make himself the best possible linebacker he can be at the next level. As long as he stays healthy, there’s no reason to bet against Lindenberg making an NFL roster out of camp, no matter where he ends up being selected.

General manager Kwesi Adofo had seemingly drawn a line in the sand and it appeared Cousins’ camp is of the belief that he can get more. Since, we’ve seen rumors and reports on both sides of the isle and numbers floated from $30 million per year all the way up to $51 million. Kirk wants more “term” and “fully-guaranteed money” which seem to be the two sticking points in talks to this point.

But on Wednesday, ProFootballTalk.com’s founder Mike Florio sat down at the scouting combine with Vikings play-by-play voice Paul Allen where the two friends chopped it up for about 15 minutes on his “Nine to Noon” KFAN Radio show.

Florio has been in Indianapolis for a couple of days and he’s been out and about chatting it up with league executives and others in the know around the NFL. One of Mike’s main missions this week, as a Vikings fan, seems to be finding out what’s happening with the Kirk Cousins situation.

Mike Florio spills beans on Minnesota Vikings plan with Kirk Cousins

Through his Indianapolis sleuthing, Florio believes he’s nailed down Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s thinking, with the Cousins negotiations. He says the Vikings are “confident” that Kirk will NOT find what he is looking for while his agent Mike McCartney shops his services this week at the combine. That, essentially, Cousins will come crawling back to the organization after he realized the grass isn’t greener outside Minnesota.

(Cousins talk begins around the 21-minute mark — Transcript below)

“My assessment of the situation is, [the Vikings] have a number that they are willing to extend, and that if Kirk Cousins is able to find anything else that he likes better, he is free to take it. They are very clear eyed about it, they are very confident.

They use the phrase, Kevin [O’Connell] did a couple of times, ‘[Kirk Cousins] has earned the right to bet on himself’ and they believe that when the time comes for [Kirk] to go see what else is out there, he will learn that whatever else is out there is not better. That the grass will not be greener in Atlanta or Las Vegas or back in Washington.”

Mike Florio – KFAN Radio with Paul Allen

Grass won’t be greener for Kirk on other side of NFL scouting combine?

What does Mr. ProFootballTalk mean when he says ‘the grass won’t be greener’ for Kirk Cousins? Well, most of it seems to come down to a lack of options. Much like the last time he was a free agent, landing spots seem to be more limited than what many seem to assume.

Related: Vikings Crush NFLPA Player Team Rankings Again but Fall Off Top Spot

Florio is hearing that potential landing spots like Washington and Las Vegas won’t be as soft as expected. He’s even hearing that the Pittsburgh Steelers plan to run it back with Kenny Pickett and Mason Rudolph for another season, instead of handing the reins to an outside-the-organization veteran like Cousins.

“I don’t think Pittsburgh [is happening]. Some people I was talking to last night [say the Steelers] really are gonna do this Kenny Pickett, Mason Rudolph thing, as crazy as it sounds. That’s what I get the impression is what they’re going to do.”

“Look, when [Kirk Cousins] was a free agent six years ago, 29 years old and healthy, it was the Vikings and Jets [who were interested]. That’s it, the Vikings and the Jets. So now he’s 35, coming off a torn achilles tendon and once you pop one, you’re more likely to pop the other one. So who’s gonna be out there?”

Mike Florio – KFAN Radio with Paul Allen

But what about Atlanta?

Atlanta? That’s been the hot spot rumor for some time now. Problem is, it sounds like the Falcons could complete a deal with the Chicago Bears any moment to acquire Justin Fields. And it’s not just Mike Florio who’s reporting the Fields to Atlanta steam.

Related: ESPN Expert Jordan Reid Reveals Likely Vikings Defensive Draft Targets

DraftKings had to take the futures bet off their board because so many people were betting on the Falcons to land Fields. Should the Atlanta domino fall, Florio believes we could see the Vikings plan of waiting out Kirk Cousins start to unfold in real time as his options start to fall off the board one after another.

PA: “But now you mentioned that with Pittsburgh and and I had not thought of that or heard that. Well, if Justin fields gets traded to Atlanta, which I would make them favored”…”I mean, if Justin [Fields goes to Atlanta] and Pittsburgh wants to do this [Rudolph + Pickett] thing, [Cousins] is gonna run out of options.”

Florio: Right, and I think that’s what [the Vikings] are counting on.”

Mike Florio – KFAN Radio with Paul Allen

Florio then riffs for a little bit on how Kwesi needs to be careful during this process with Cousins. That he cannot assume Kirk won’t up and move to another city, if he feels disrespected or if the Vikings overplay the whole, ‘my kids are already in school in Minnesota and my family is already comfortable’ card.

In fact, he says he has gotten tips that Kirk and Julie have already scoped out schools and neighborhoods in Atlanta, should he end up there. But in the end, Mike comes back to the same thought. If Atlanta trades for Fields, Kirk could be facing a return to Minnesota with his tail between his legs..

Florio: “It would be foolish to assume that Kirk and Julie Cousins haven’t already scoped out everything that they would be doing in Atlanta, including the school. I’m in a position where I get all sorts of crazy tips from people. Some of the tips I’ve gotten is they’ve already been down there and they know exactly where the kids would go to school if Atlanta is the place.”

PA: “Yeah, well [the Cousins’] absolutely have [scoped things out already].”

Florio: “But if they go Justin fields then it doesn’t matter. And I got the impression from hearing Raheem Morris, the new head coach of the Falcons yesterday, that it is going to be Justin Fields.”

If you don’t believe Mike Florio, and some certainly will not, then maybe you’ll soften a bit when you read the quote that came out of Kwesi-Adofo Mensah, on the same KFAN radio station, earlier in PA’s show.

Related: Vikings Meet Formally with LSU QB Jayden Daniels at NFL Scouting Combine

Kwesi-Adofo Mensah hinting that Florio may be right?

That’s when the Vikings GM talked about how he expects the negotiations with Kirk Cousins to go all the way to the very last moment, which is expected to be March 13, right before his $28.5 million dead cap penalty would hit the books if there is no new deal. This sure makes it seem like the front office is waiting for Kirk to shop around until he comes to the realization that, like Florio said, the grass isn’t greener on other teams’ fields.

#Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah via @KFAN1003 on when a likely decision on Kirk Cousins will be made 👀

“I think it probably go right down to the deadline. I hope it doesn’t. I don’t like hoping, but as I’ve learned in this league deadlines do just kind of get people to tighten… pic.twitter.com/kDUhpTS6Z0

— The Purple Persuasion (@TPPSkol) February 28, 2024

And when that happens, ESPN NFL Draft expert and insider Jordan Reid — who also happens to be a huge Vikings fan — believes general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, head coach Kevin O’Connell and defensive coordinator, Brian Flores, will gravitate to some specific defensive players he has projected across the first couple days of picks, come April.

Defensive players the Vikings may target in NFL Draft – per Jordan Reid (ESPN)

Reid sat down with Paul Allen on KFAN Radio Tuesday for their regularly scheduled combine interview and he was excited about eight defensive playmakers that he believes the Vikings are either already interested in or soon will be.

At approximately the 45-minute mark of the above episode, Reid dives into the defensive players he likes for the Vikings. Remember, Jordan bleeds purple and gold and started his path to ESPN writing and doing video/podcast content on the Vikings, along with the NFL Draft. There’s no team in the league that Jordan Reid has his finger on more than our Vikings. If he says Kwesi & Co are or will be interested in someone, you listen.

DL Jer’Zhan Newton – Illinois

Newton is one of the most experienced defensive linemen in this year’s draft class. The three-year starter brings juice and strength as a run defender. He also had a career-best 7.5 sacks for the Illini last season.

“He was the focal point of that defense (Illinois) coming into the year, and he upped his game. Over 700 snaps last year, which was 8th in the FBS last year. So, he doesn’t come off the field…If you’re asking him to strictly be a three-technique, penetrate and get up the field right now, and you can also move him around, I think he would be a great fit.”

ESPN Draft Analyst Jordan Reid on KFAN Radio Tuesday

Related: Vikings Plant Seed with Patriots Over Possible Trade for No. 3 Overall Pick

If Minnesota is looking to bring both depth and energy to their defensive interior, the 6-2, 300-pound Newton could be a wise first-round selection for HC Kevin O’Connell and DC Brian Flores.

CB Terrion Arnold – Alabama

Any cornerback that is coached by Nick Saban at the highest level is going to have quite the future. This is exactly the case with Arnold. The Tallahassee native had a whopping five interceptions last season and proved that he is a great tackler.

“I think he’s the best cornerback in the draft…He’s played slot, he’s played outside, and he’s a very, very good athlete…You’re talking about somebody that is such an easy mover and has really good ball skills.”

ESPN Draft Analyst Jordan Reid on KFAN Radio Tuesday

Alabama CB Terrion Arnold

His competitiveness really stands out on film. Aggressive/sticky in coverage. Does a great job of getting chest to chest and playing the ball in the air. pic.twitter.com/AGhPq6MZkX

— Kendell Hollowell (@KHollowell_) February 21, 2024

He jumped from 45 total tackles in 2022 to 63 in 2023. If Minnesota is looking for a player that has all the potential to be an elite defender, the All-American in Arnold is one of those guys.

CB Quinyon Mitchell – Toledo

Quinyon Mitchell has a lot to love about him. Not only can he play against against anybody, but he can also shut anybody down. He combined for 37 pass break-ups over the last two seasons. He also combined for six interceptions. He has a good size (6-0, 196 pounds) and all the intangibles that he needs to be a big-time player for a long, long time.

Related: 10 Fastest Minnesota Vikings 40-Yard Dash Times at NFL Scouting Combine

“He was the best player at the Senior Bowl to me. He was absolutely terrific. He’s probably going to be one of the best testers at the Combine. It wouldn’t surprise me if he ends up running in the low-to-mid 4.3s, jumping 40+, and then exceeding 11 feet in the broad jump…He’s going against Marvin Harrison Jr. back in 2022, and he held up. So being a Toldeo corner, he was fantastic.”

ESPN Draft Analyst Jordan Reid on KFAN Radio Tuesday

CB Kool-Aid McKinstry – Alabama

Kool-Aid McKinstry was the Robin to Terrion Arnold’s Batman in 2023. Opposing quarterbacks were terrified to throw his way. After having 15 pass break-ups in 2022, Mckinstry had just 7 in 2023. Kool-Aid is one of Reid’s favorite cornerbacks in the draft.

“Another one of my favorites in this draft class. Kool-Aid had a lot of buzz coming into the year…He had a great year last year…He’s probably going to be a back-end-of-the-first-round type of player. He’s one the Vikings are going to like quite a bit too.

ESPN Draft Analyst Jordan Reid on KFAN Radio Tuesday

Regardless, he doesn’t give up big plays. Like Quinyon Mitchell, McKinstry has solid size (6-1, 196 pounds) and a great track record going up against great players when given the opportunity. Look for the All-American to be in the mix for the Vikings in round 1.

CB Cam Hart – Notre Dame

He might not grab all the headlines because he most likely won’t be a first-round pick, but Cam Hart is a guy to watch. He started 47 career games in college, so it’s fair to say that he has loads of experience under his belt.

“He’s about 6-2, 210 pounds. He was a wide receiver when he first got to Notre Dame. So those ball skills have transitioned over to the cornerback position. He was another that was terrific down at the Senior Bowl. A really good tackler…Somebody who is really instinctive.”

ESPN Draft Analyst Jordan Reid on KFAN Radio Tuesday

Cam Hart (Notre Dame CB 5) has impressed me tonight on tape. Listed at 6-2 and 198 lbs with 24 games played and 10 starts. Instantly, you can see his length but watch his quick feet while reading the QB and then the aggressiveness to fly upfield to make the tackle. pic.twitter.com/S0odlMmpVh

— Russell Brown (@RussNFLDraft) August 12, 2022

In addition to being a great tackler, the Baltimore native has a nose for the ball seeing as he forced three fumbles in 2023. With his size and intelligence, perhaps Brian Flores could find a way to move him around. Having a versatile defender with size is a great weapon for any defense.

LB Cedric Gray – North Carolina

Despite being a little undersized (235 lbs), Gray is a tackling machine. He combined for 265 total tackles over the last two seasons. So, just imagine if he improves his wrap-up tackling and vision. The NFL is changing in terms of the types of linebackers that teams employ.

“He’s a really good athlete…Sideline-to-sideline guy. Very good in pass coverage…He needs to clean up his eyes a little bit… He has to be a little bit better of a wrap-up tackler.”

ESPN Draft Analyst Jordan Reid on KFAN Radio Tuesday

Smaller, faster defenders that can do it all. In addition to being a productive tackler, Gray also had 5 sacks, 4 passes deflections, and multiple forced fumbles in 2023. He’ll be a guy to watch for Minnesota.

LB Payton Wilson – N.C. State

“I think he’s going to be a really explosive tester. He won every ward that you can think of in the country last year. He’s had a couple of season-ending knee injuries, so medicals are going to be really big for him.”

ESPN Draft Analyst Jordan Reid on KFAN Radio Tuesday

Payton Wilson is a guy that can become an All-Pro kind of player, if he remains healthy. Again, that is a big if. He recorded 138 tackles last season for the Wolfpack, in addition to recording 6 sacks and 3 interceptions. He is all over the field and has the potential to be a very, very steady defensive piece if he can stay off of the injury report.

LB Ty’Ron Hopper – Missouri

Hopper is a smaller linebacker (6-2, 221 pounds), which is exactly why he could be great in this Vikings defense. His athleticism and speed allows him to drop back into pass coverage while also keeping an eye on the events in the backfield.

“Really explosive. A little raw…But his pass coverage and blitzing, I think Flores is going to like him a lot.”

ESPN Draft Analyst Jordan Reid on KFAN Radio Tuesday

Ty’Ron Hopper was a menace last night. pic.twitter.com/m1EDHVPP9H

— Barstool Mizzou (@BarstoolMizzou) September 2, 2022

The more speed on defense, the less productivity comes for the opposing offense. He is a fourth-round or fifth-round pick that could really make some waves as a smaller linebacker.

Terell Smith’s time to shine

Schmitz is a possible first rounder and widely considered the best center in the draft. The other three Gopher alums are expected to be later round picks. But Terell Smith could change that on Friday afternoon when defensive backs are put through the drills portion of the combine.

Smith is a long 6’1″, 215 lbs and he’s an athletic freak. He’s going to score off the charts in many of the exercises he’s put through. That includes the 40-yard dash. Latest rumors around town have Terell running under 4.40 seconds.

A name to watch this week is @GopherFootball CB Terrell Smith. There’s a feeling around town he could run a 4.35 – 4.40 40-yard dash.

Asked an #NFL Executive his thumbnail; “That kid is really, really fast.”

At 6-foot-1 and 215 pounds, Smith’s an #NFLDraft sleeper … pic.twitter.com/8W041cERNV

— Matt Lombardo (@MattLombardoNFL) March 2, 2023

Career highs and lows at Minnesota

For Terell Smith, it’s never been about talent or skill set. It’s been about putting all of his knowledge, experience and athleticism together on the football field. Smith showed promise early in his college career, logging 573 snaps as a freshman in 2018. His 69.3 PFF grade that season promised a bright future.

But the Georgia native struggled to stay on the field for the next few seasons, as the Gophers defense got better under Joe Rossi and more talent accumulated in the secondary. Over the next three years combined (2019-2021), Terell Smith failed to reach the snap count he did as a freshman alone.

In 2022, though, Smith put it all back together, proving to Fleck, Rossi and NFL scouts that, not only does he have the size, strength and athleticism to be an elite cornerback, but he has the work ethic and football acumen too.

He logged career highs in snaps (598), PFF Grade (80.9) and interceptions (2) and allowed a completion percentage of just 58.5% while holding QB’s to a 68.2 passer rating when thrown at. It was the type of season Smith needed if he was going to be drafted this offseason.

That growth on the football field has given Terell Smith an opportunity to be one of the biggest standouts at the combine this week. Now, he just has to take advantage.

????2023 NFL Combine CB Preview????

Projected top performers using our In-Game Athleticism (IGA) Score as a proxy:

1. Eli Ricks 99.2
2. Julius Brents 98.3
3. Terell Smith 96.4
4. Lance Boykin 94.6
5. Garrett Williams 92.3#ReelAnalytics pic.twitter.com/RyRtWeSqBK

— Reel Analytics (@RAanalytics) February 28, 2023

Eric Strack | Minnesota Sports Fan