There was some hope that handing the keys over to undrafted rookie Max Brosmer would ignite the offense in a way we haven’t seen much this season. Unfortunately, he found a way to make Vikings fans miss J.J. McCarthy.

Max Brosmer went up in flames against Seattle

In his first NFL start, undrafted rookie Max Brosmer completed 19-of-30 passes for 126 yards. The 9-3 Seattle Seahawks have a formidable defense, and the former Gophers signal caller felt that to the tune of four interceptions, one of which being a horrendous pick-six.

It could have been a 3-3 game at halftime had Kevin O’Connell simply took the points with his rookie quarterback looking at 4th and 1 in the red zone. Instead he rolled him out on play action and the first of his interceptions took place.

well that was not ideal pic.twitter.com/qzLerp3NeU

— CJ Fogler 🫡 (@cjzero) November 30, 2025

Things didn’t get better as Brosmer’s day went on, despite Brian Flores’ defense holding Sam Darnold to just 14-of-26 for 128 yards. Now sitting at 4-8, fresh off being shut out for the first time since 2007, it may be time for Minnesota Vikings decision-makers to consider a shift in focus for the organization.

Draft position could prove beneficial for MN Vikings

Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has been nothing short of terrible when it comes to identifying draft talent. His draft classes have missed constantly, and McCarthy could be what sinks his ship. For now he’s got a recent extension, and another top swing may right some wrongs.

The Vikings aren’t going to take a quarterback with McCarthy still clinging to life. They had to spend a boatload on the offensive line because of misses an undeveloped talent. They did the same on the defensive line, and will have other holes to fill as well.

If not for Jordan Addison, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s greatest draft pick would be 2024 6th round kicker Will Reichard.

He has made 28 total picks.

14 of them are no longer with the organization.

— Ted (@tlschwerz) November 29, 2025

Currently owning the eighth worst record in football, they could slide below the Commanders with a loss on Sunday. Minnesota has eight picks in the 2026 draft and should receive a couple more compensatory selections. The higher that first round pick is, the less likely even Adofo-Mensah can screw it up.

A bad Washington Commanders team comes to town next weekend. It remains to be seen if the previously concussed J.J. McCarthy will take back over, but the results may be better from the losing side of the scoreboard.

This team is going nowhere in 2025, and tanking the rest of the way could be the right answer. Playing either McCarthy or Brosmer might be enough to accomplish it anyways.

Then, a month later (Sept. 8), Kevin O’Connell & Co will kick off the 2025 regular season on Monday Night Football, against the division rival Chicago Bears. They’ll tell us not to overreact to week one, but that’ll be easier said than done, after what (god-willing) will be the regular season debut of medical redshirt rookie QB, JJ McCarthy.

Not only is the 22-year-old‘s first NFL game scheduled to take place on the biggest weekly stage in all of sports, but he’ll do it in his home state of Illinois. In fact, McCarthy grew up in Evanston, IL, which is less than an hour drive up the coast of Lake Michigan from Soldier Field.

Will immense pressure weigh on JJ McCarthy during MN Vikings debut week 1?

Will the pressure of that 1.5 months from now have an effect on JJ McCarthy’s ability to play football that evening? Minnesota Vikings beat writer Alec Lewis (The Athletic) asked that question to some of the quarterback’s former coaches and trainers, who would know best.

Every single one had the same response. That the Vikings’ new quarterback was built for moments like week one of the 2025 NFL season. Since he was a kid, McCarthy has been watching, reading and listening to people who motivate him, from Michael Jordan to Tom Brady to random CEOs who give incredible YouTube presentations.

These lines sound straight out of the computation notebook McCarthy began compiling years ago. He would read quotes from Michael Jordan and scribble them down. Late at night, lying in bed, he’d hang on every word of a motivational speech from some revered business executive or renowned psychologist. The following day, his parents, Jim and Megan, would find advice jotted on the whiteboard in his room.

At IMG, McCarthy begged coaches to give him more responsibility. As in, “Send me the practice plan before tomorrow.” As in, “Allow me to make checks at the line of scrimmage — please.” The school’s quarterbacks coach, Kurt Gould, would leave his laptop open at night so McCarthy could log in to the film platform.

The Athletic

Related: JJ McCarthy Says He’s Ready to Start for the MN Vikings… Plus Much More

At every level, JJ has surprised his coaches and those around him by the way he prepares and the consistency he brings to the locker room day in and day out. In his article at The Athletic — which I caution, will make you run through the nearest wall — Lewis’ main source of background information is McCarthy’s longtime individual QB coach, Greg Holcomb.

Confirmed: JJ McCarthy wants all the pressure

The two have been working together since the summer between JJ’s 7th and 8th grade years of middle school. And if there is one thing that Greg has learned in his seven-eight years of working with the highest drafted quarterback in Minnesota Vikings franchise history, is that no moment is ever too big for this kid.

When [Holcomb] is asked how he thinks McCarthy will manage the mayhem [of week 1], he answers the same way so many of McCarthy’s former coaches and teammates do.

It’s not, “He’ll be fine.” It’s more forceful, like, “I can’t tell you how much I’d bet on that kid.”

“I don’t think it feels like weight to him,” Holcomb said.

Then what does it feel like?

“Another opportunity to do something great.”

The Athletic

JJ McCarthy really tore Bama up in the Rose Bowl

27-1 as a starter
3x Big Ten Champion
National Champion
Big Ten QB of the year
Top 10 pick

GREATEST QB in Michigan History #GoBlue pic.twitter.com/rp1ucYYHKZ

— Underwood Unleashed (@Underwood_szn) July 18, 2025

These are only a couple of the stories that Alec Lewis compiled for his latest write up on JJ McCarthy, which dropped Monday morning. There’s another IMG Academy story in there where his coaches saw him out standing in the middle of the football stadium, after the lights had been turned out.

Why? He had his playbook down there with him and he was walking through the next game’s script by himself, taking “imaginary snaps” and going through the reads of each play. Again, if you have a spare wall handy, I’d highly recommend reading Lewis’ entire article.

Because once you do, you’ll walk away wondering if the Minnesota Vikings actually drafted the next Tom Brady, especially when it comes to preparation and the mental side of the game.

Ryan Poles, Chicago Bears nearly drafted JJ McCarthy over Caleb Williams

And apparently, Alec’s readers aren’t the only ones. Also included within the piece is a supposed conversation between McCarthy’s aforementioned individual QB coach, Greg Holcomb and Chicago Bears general manager, Ryan Poles.

It came during a middle school quarterbacks camp that Holcomb was hosting and Poles was attending. According to the well-known QB whisperer, that’s when the subject of JJ McCarthy came up and Chicago’s GM let it slip that the Bears nearly shocked the football world at the top of the 2024 NFL Draft, where they seriously considered selecting McCarthy over consensus No. 1 overall pick, Caleb Williams.

During a changeover at the camp, Holcomb approached Poles and introduced himself. They found their way to the subject of McCarthy.

“He was talking about how much they (the Bears) loved J.J.,” Holcomb said. “And said to me, ‘I don’t think people realize how close we were to possibly taking him.’ Obviously, they love (No. 1 pick) Caleb (Williams), but I thought that was interesting.”

The Athletic

There are nearly 1000 words in this article already, between myself and Alec, and neither of us touched on the incredible National Championship-winning career he had at Michigan. Let’s not forget that none of these stories matter if JJ McCarthy didn’t develop into an elite quarterback, which he absolutely did.

As a senior for the Wolverines, while his head coach and the entire program was embroiled in one of the most historic cheating scandals in all of sports history, McCarthy tuned out the noise and lead Michigan to a National Championship.

Related: Minnesota Vikings No Longer Babying JJ McCarthy

His haters will say he didn’t have to do much, behind such a great defense and running game. But he was the emotional and spiritual leader of a bunch that needed it desperately in that moment.

Oh, and he finished with one of the most efficient quarterback seasons in CFB history, throwing for 2,991 yards, 22 touchdowns and just 4 interceptions, on 72.3% passing.

JJ McCarthy is the most efficient QB in the country. Here are his week 7 highlights vs Indiana pic.twitter.com/bG7RmGng6y

— JD 〽️ (@MGoJDBlue) October 17, 2023

At the start of the offseason, both the Vikings head coach and their general manager promised to fix the interior of both lines. Three months later, they delivered in a manner that probably went above and beyond what would have been deemed a success.

Minnesota Vikings ink Donovan Jackson to deal

But on Thursday evening, right after the Vikings 2025 schedule officially released, the Minnesota Vikings officially signed the final piece of the offensive side of their revamped trenches. Jackson was the final of Minnesota’s five draft picks to sign their rookie deals.

The #Vikings have agreed to terms with first-round pick Donovan Jackson.

Minnesota’s entire rookie class is now under contract. pic.twitter.com/vppYRa04nG

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 15, 2025

Although the exact terms of Jackson’s contract were not immediately made public, rookie contracts are mostly pre-set by the NFL. Spotrac has Donovan Jackson’s new deal worth $17.2 million, with the signing bonus checking in just above $9.1 million.

All first round rookie contracts are worth four years, with a fifth year team option. Starting as soon as training camp, Jackson is expected to take over as the starting left guard, next to Christian Darrisaw, and in place of last year’s LG starter, Blake Brandel. We’ll see if that’s how things wind up shaking out, in reality.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Sign Two More Rookies

The selection of Jackson completes an interior line overhaul for the Vikings. Jackson is joined by center Ryan Kelly, and right guard Will Fries. Darrisaw and right tackle Brian O’Neill are cemented bookends and the line as a whole would give J.J. McCarthy a great launching point.

Don’t overlook the other MN Vikings rookies

Beyond just Jackson, the Minnesota Vikings draft class should have legitimate contributors. Third round wide receiver Tai Felton is a legitimate option to overtake Jalen Nailor. The Maryland standout will get run early if there’s a suspension for Jordan Addison, and he may not give the reps back.

Impressed me Friday how long Tai Felton was. Not sure I expected that. But stands out as an athlete, certainly. pic.twitter.com/5Tw1UouOkf

— Alec Lewis (@alec_lewis) May 11, 2025

Plenty of excitement has been shared about defensive lineman Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, and he could factor in at multiple positions in Brian Flores’ front. Kobe King brings linebacker depth alongside Ivan Pace Jr. and Blake Cashman. Tight end Gavin Bartholomew should have an inside track to replace Johnny Mundt and Nick Muse.

Related: Official 2025 Minnesota Vikings Schedule + Release Video

While the Minnesota Vikings rookie class wasn’t full of quantity, it appears that Adofo-Mensah has hit on the quality aspect. A highly-praised class of 20 undrafted free agents are also worthy of keeping an eye on. If Minnesota is going to compete in the year ahead, they’ll need contributions from all over their roster, young and old.

Prior to the draft, Minnesota was one of the more active teams in free agency, which put their roster in a great spot entering the draft. The Vikings’ limited number of picks pushed them down a lot of draft rankings, but most agree that what general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and everyone involved in the draft process did what they could with the handful of selections they did have.

It’s difficult for a team to improve on a 14-win season, no matter how good they are. That’s just a lot of wins. But no matter their record, the 2025 Minnesota Vikings look like a better team on paper going into summer workouts than what we thought we had this time last year. Part of that confidence was built through the draft.

Donovan Jackson expected to start for Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings’ first round pick, Donovan Jackson, is expected to get every opportunity to beat out incumbent starter, Blake Brandel. Entering the draft, many believed Kwesi would trade back and acquire more assets, given they only owned four picks when night one kicked off.

Instead, they chose to stick and pick the Ohio State guard/tackle at No. 24 overall pick. He’s good. He’s so good in fact, he moved to left tackle to cover for an injury and excelled there as well. Given his skill and versatility, all signs point to Jackson being a Vikings starter in week one.

#OSU OL Donovan Jackson played tackle down the stretch for the Buckeyes but I particularly liked his ability to climb to the 2nd level as a guard and his recovery ability if he initially lost a rep. Holds a firm anchor against interior DL too. I view him as a guard longterm. pic.twitter.com/bQVkqIStB4

— Devin Jackson (@RealD_Jackson) March 28, 2025

Minnesota drafted Jackson in hope that he will be able to immediately join newly signed veterans Ryan Kelly and Will Fries. Christian Darrisaw is expected back to make the rookie’s life easier on the outside. But if all goes to plan, redshirt rookie J.J. McCarthy should have the best offensive line the Vikings have employed in decades.

Related: MN Vikings Minicamp: KOC Reveals First Impressions of QB Max Brosmer

Biggest competition: Last season, Blake Brandel ranked 99th of 136 guards per Pro Football Focus. That’s a low bar for Jackson to clear, but you just never know about these rookies (especially on the OL), until we start hearing reports out of training camp, when helmets and pads come on.

Can Tai Felton earn snaps at wide receiver?

It’s possible that Tai Felton factors into the Minnesota Vikings special teams plans immediately. But after one weekend of rookie camp, that might be selling his year-one impact short. The Maryland product showed out against the Gophers last fall, then went on to finish 2024 with nine touchdowns on 1,124 yards receiving.

Tai Felton ended up in my top 100. Can stretch the field vertically, run after the catch, and and has suddenness within his routes pic.twitter.com/QLKQ9pFGTv

— Billy M (@BillyM_91) April 24, 2025

Felton is 6’2″ and can operate in the slot or the outside. With Jordan Addison in line for a two or three game suspension (stemming from his DUI arrest last summer) depth receivers like Felton and 2024 WR3 Jalen Nailor will get all sorts of opportunities for more targets over the next few months.

Biggest Competition: Last season, Jalen Nailor scored six touchdowns on 414 yards, in his first year taking over WR3 duties for K.J. Osborn. but he’s been unreliable throughout his three years in purple, recording key drops and an inability to stay healthy.

That’s where Felton could factor into WR2 conversations, especially if he can rise up the depth chart in time for Addison’s likely imminent suspension. You have to wonder how much job security Nailor has, after Felton’s selection in the 3rd round last April. But without a doubt, he’ll make the 53-man roster, barring something unforeseen taking place.

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins is a freak athlete… but can he get on the field?

Late round picks often draw less fanfare. When adding to a rushing group for the Vikings that includes Andrew Van Ginkel, Jonathan Greenard, and Dallas Turner, you’re already up against it. That doesn’t mean Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins doesn’t stand a chance to make the roster out of Training Camp.

Look, this dude is a freak athlete and RAS darling. And especially in 2025, ceiling talent matters more than one’s ability to contribute on the field for an NFL roster now. At Georgia, Ingram Dawkins was used as a weapon all across the Bulldogs’ defensive front, both along the edges and in the interior

Related: Every Player at 2025 Minnesota Vikings Rookie Camp, Including Top Ranked UDFA Class

As a senior at Georgia, Ingram Dawkins played 14 games on a talented Georgia DL rotation, totalling just 536 total snaps and recording three sacks and eight tackles for loss. PFF gave him a 69.8 defense grade, which included a much higher run stop grade (70.8) than it did pass rush (60.2).

Will be curious to see where Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins finds a role. Super athletic and can play big end or kick inside in sub packages pic.twitter.com/ZrU26VBBCj

— Billy M (@BillyM_91) April 17, 2025

Dane Brugler from The Athletic called Ingram-Dawkins a day three pick that could surprise. “Ingram-Dawkins was more of a flash player than consistent force in Kirby Smart’s front seven. But he is a good-sized athlete and brings enough inside-outside versatility on the defensive line to eventually develop from a rotational player into someone who pushes for starting reps.”

Minnesota has plenty of mouths to feed when it comes to rushing the passer. If Ingram-Dawkins can have a good summer/camp, he’ll have a chance to make the roster. If not, he’s practice squad material for sure.

Kobe King has clear path to MN Vikings 53-man

Last season, former Gopher out of Eden Prairie Blake Cashman came home and immediately shined for the Minnesota Vikings. Health has been an issue his entire career, a trend we saw continue in 2024-25. Former UDFA-turned starter Ivan Pace also dealt with his own injury issues last season.

To alleviate some of that depth stress in the insider linebacker room, Minnesota recently brought back veteran Eric Wilson, after he left for a stint with NFC North rival Green Bay. But during they draft, the Vikings doubled down on what could be a late-round steal in Penn State ILB, Kobe King.

Working on a 2025 LB superlatives article and by far the easiest choice was Kobe King → Best Block Shedder. Most linebackers into today’s CFB don't have a reel half this long pic.twitter.com/Wm0je3xRhK

— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) February 18, 2025

A three-year starter for Penn State, King is an immediate threat to take Brian Asamoah’s job. He may not get defensive snaps out of the gate, but he could be a special teams asset now and a defensive contributor in the very near future. Last season with the Nittany Lions, King racked up three sacks tallied 97 total tackles.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Expected to Play Multiple Games Overseas in 2025

Many people also like UDFA linebacker signee, Austin Keys. FantasyLife.com draft expert, Thor Nystrom believes both King and Asamoah should be watching over their shoulders for Keys, who one NFL coach told him would have been a fifth rounder, had it not been for injuries.

Same with the other 6th Rd Pick – Gavin Bartholomew

Maybe tight end wasn’t the most obviousl position for the Minnesota Vikings to target in the 2025 NFL Draft. But a closer look reveals a team that relies a lot on their tight ends to do a variety of different jobs.

So, after losing both Johnny Mundt and Nick Muse in free agency, only T.J. Hockenson and Josh Oliver remained on the depth chart, entering the draft. That was never going to be enough. The Vikings love to keep three or four tight ends active, and that almost ensures Gavin Bartholomew makes the roster.

Last season, at Pittsburgh, Bartholomew recorded a career-high 38 receptions for 322 yards and four touchdowns. He’s somewhat raw but he can catch the football and has shown he can block too.

A tight end I have come on late to is Pitt Gavin Bartholomew

He strikes me as a guy who’s best ball is in front of him — solid blocker, YAC guy, fights for every yard, solid athletic profile, makings of an all-around TE at the next level pic.twitter.com/0dUv6nGMP8

— Brad (@Graham_SFN) April 10, 2025

If Gavin can pick things up on offense somewhat quickly, at the NFL level, there’s nothing standing in between him and the MN Vikings week one 53-man roster… which uncoincidentally seems to be the case for much of this year’s draft class.

On the other side of the player acquisition coin, Kwesi hasn’t had any issues identifying free agents, and that includes a high success rate in undrafted free agency. But this weekend, with all the early offseason moving and grooving complete, it’s time to start getting players on the field.

Friday, all of the youngsters signed since the “2025 NFL Annual Player Selection Meeting” (plus 1st rd pick Donovan Jones, who has not yet signed) arrived in Eagan at TCO Performance Center to get work in with their new MN Vikings teammates and coaches.

All 51 participants at 2025 Minnesota Vikings rookie minicamp

First day on the job.#Skol pic.twitter.com/qqOV5Tgmp1

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) May 9, 2025

In total, there are 51 players working out at Vikings facilities this weekend. All of them are listed below. Minnesota has 31 rookie minicamp participants already under contract. They brought in 20 more unsigned youngsters, including Randy Moss’ son Montigo Moss, to try and earn their spot.

Underneath the list of Minnesota Vikings rookie minicamp participants, is some analysis on the team’s 2025 Undrafted Rookie Free Agency class via Thor Nystrom (FantasyLife.com), who ranked it No. 1 in the entire NFL.

Quarterbacks (2)

Max Brosmer — Minnesota (undrafted free agent)

Zach Zebrowski — Central Missouri (invited as tryout)

Related: MN Vikings Minicamp: KOC Reveals First Impressions of QB Max Brosmer

Running backs (4)

Tre Stewart — Jacksonville State (undrafted free agent)

Tre Stewart is on a generational run right now 😤

Tonight:
2⃣7⃣ carries
2⃣3⃣2⃣ yards
4⃣ TD

Last four games:
1⃣7⃣3⃣.5⃣ YPG
1⃣1⃣ TD@JaxStateFB | @treseanstewart8 | #NoLimitsOnUs pic.twitter.com/aqlfa76X1L

— Conference USA (@ConferenceUSA) October 31, 2024

Hope Adebayo — St. Thomas (invited as tryout)

Jarod Epperson — Augustana (invited as tryout)

Zavier Scott — Maine (already rostered)

Wide receivers (8)

Silas Bolden — Texas (undrafted free agent)

Tai Felton — Maryland (2025 third-round pick)

Dontae Fleming — Tulane (undrafted free agent)

Montigo Moss — Maine (invited as tryout)

Randy Moss reaction to his son Montigo Moss highlight play in the UMaine Black Bear win!

pic.twitter.com/mtszHdAPNh

— New England Sports Review (@nesportreview) September 29, 2024

Jeshaun Jones — Maryland (2024 undrafted free agent)

Robert Lewis — Auburn (undrafted free agent)

Robert McMinn — Alabama State (invited as tryout)

Myles Price — Indiana (undrafted free agent)

Tight ends (3)

Gavin Bartholomew — Pittsburgh (2025 sixth-round pick)

Bryson Nesbit — North Carolina (undrafted free agent)

Ben Yurosek — Georgia (undrafted free agent)

Offensive linemen (6)

Zeke Correll — N.C. State (undrafted free agent)

Logan Brown — Kansas (undrafted free agent)

It’s fun watching Vikings UDFA Logan Brown (OL, Kansas) — @thorku’s #1 available UDFA

Brown is a finisher with a nasty streak, laughably dominant at his best

Here are FOURTEEN snaps against K-state where Brown (#52 at RT) blocked his opponent to the ground 💪 pic.twitter.com/8VjGvXeESd

— Krauser (@Krauserrific) May 9, 2025

Elijah Ellis — Marshall (invited as tryout)

Joe Huber — Wisconsin (undrafted free agent)

Donovan Jackson — Ohio State (2025 first-round pick)

Marcellus Johnson — Missouri (already rostered)

Related: Minnesota Vikings Expected to Play Multiple Games Overseas in 2025

Defensive linemen (6)

Anthony Campbell — Miami (invited as tryout)

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins — Georgia (2025 fifth-round pick)

Nathan Kapongo — Akron (invited as tryout)

Quantez Mansfield — N.C. Central (invited as tryout)

Alexander Williams — Middle Tennessee State (undrafted free agent)

Elijah Williams — Morgan State (invited as tryout)

Outside linebackers (5)

Tyler Batty — BYU (undrafted free agent)

Tyler Batty to the Vikings as an UDFA. Can’t wait to see what he does, Vikings got a stud😤😤 pic.twitter.com/NPRmwQ7wO8

— Center Street Media (@CenterStMedia) April 27, 2025

Chico Bennett — Jr. (invited as tryout)

Chaz Chambliss — Georgia (undrafted free agent)

Brody Grebe — Montana State (invited as tryout)

Matt Harmon — Kent State (invited as tryout)

Related: Minnesota Vikings’ Greatest Position of Need – Per Mr. DVOA

Defensive backs (10)

Trashawn Adams (S) — Stephen F. Austin (invited as tryout)

Bubba Bolden (S) — Miami (already rostered)

Keenan Garber (CB) — Kansas State (undrafted free agent)

Tommi Hill (CB) — Nebraska (invited as tryout)

Robert Jones III (CB) — Howard (invited as tryout)

Paul Lewis III (S) — Akron (invited as tryout)

Javerius McGuinn (CB) — Missouri Western (invited as tryout)

Mishael Powell (S) — Miami (undrafted free agent)

Reddy Steward (CB) — Troy (already rostered)

Zemaiah Vaughn (CB) — Utah (undrafted free agent)

Linebackers (4)

Kobe King — Penn State (2025 sixth-round pick)

Austin Keys — Auburn (undrafted free agent)

Austin Keys signed with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent after the 2025 NFL Draft

From Semmes, AL, graduated from Mary G. Montgomery High School. Expected to play LB in the NFL like at Auburn. Keys ecorded 52 tackles 2 TFL at Auburn, per Auburn Tigers stats

His… pic.twitter.com/0JRqtMmiZp

— wavybone (@tigerwav) April 28, 2025

Dorian Mausi — Auburn (undrafted free agent)

Max Tooley — BYU (already rostered)

Kicker (1)

Mitch Jeter –Notre Dame (invited as tryout)

Punter (1)

Oscar Chapman — Auburn (International Player Pathway Program)

Long snapper (1)

Austin Riggs — Rutgers (invited as tryout)

There are plenty of different reasons a talented NFL-caliber player gets passed over during all seven rounds of the NFL Draft. And when high-caliber players fall through the cracks, the Minnesota Vikings have been really good at identifying those who can play in the league. This year’s class was no different.

Expect MN Vikings UDFAs to claim roster spots

FantasyLife.com NFL Draft guru Thor Nystrom has ranked Minnesota’s undrafted free agent class top five every year Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and head coach Kevin O’Connell have been the head decision makers. In 2025, however, he ranked them No. 1 overall.

In this year’s UDFA class, Thor specifically pinpoints Logan Brown (his top-rated UDFA), his former linemate Joe Huber, Gopher QB Max Brosmer, RB Tre Stewart, along with EDGE Tyler Batty. One coach not in the MN Vikings organization even believes that UDFA linebacker Austin Keys will beat out sixth round pick Kobe King.

The Vikings’ class is headlined by Kansas OL Logan Brown, my top-ranked overall UDFA. Brown, seen as a mid-rounder by most analysts heading into the draft, is going to make this roster… OG Joe Huber is also someone to monitor in camp. Brown and Huber—former teammates at Wisconsin—will battle 2024 draft picks Walter Rouse and Michael Jurgens in camp for bench spots.

QB Max Brosmer and RB Tre Stewart, meanwhile, will take on QB3 Brett Rypien and RB3 Ty Chandler, respectively. Each has a legitimate shot. Because of the team’s precarious depth situation at tight end, TEs Benjamin Yurosek and Bryson Nesbit might ultimately be battling with one another for a roster spot. If neither impresses this summer, look for the Vikings to be monitoring August tight end cuts from other rosters.

EDGE Tyler Batty was right on the draftable line for me. He’s a four-year starter at BYU with a north/south game, generating speed-to-power. Batty has the frame and game to hang around as a 3-4 defensive end.

An NFL coach—not on the Vikings staff—told me after the draft that LB Austin Keys might have been a fifth-rounder were it not for injuries. This coach believes Keys will beat out sixth-round pick LB Kobe King if Keys stays healthy this summer.”

Thor Nystrom – Fantasy Life

Nystrom also points out in his piece that six UDFAs have made the Vikings’ Week 1 roster over the past three years — Ryan Wright, Ivan Pace Jr., Gabriel Murphy, Taki Taimani, Bo Richter, and Dwight McGlothern.

Related: MN Vikings QB JJ McCarthy Reminds TJ Hockenson of Who…?

Although Donovan Jackson was drafted to immediately start at left guard for the Minnesota Vikings, Thor seems to have a lot of faith in both Logan Brown and Joe Huber hanging around the team this season too, even if that is just on the practice squad. Thor isn’t the only guy who likes Brown, either.

Logan Brown 2024 stats with perspective

-One on one pass block win rate: 93.40%, same as 1st rd pick Josh Conerly

-PFF run block grade of 82.2, 1st rd pick Kelvin Banks was 81.0

-Pressure rate: 2.4%; 1st rd pick Armand Membou was 2.2%

Is it too early to say, "UDFA STEAL!?" https://t.co/Q0vwncC1G7

— nate (@battl2heaven) May 6, 2025

Minnesota Vikings supplemented a small draft class

Part of the talking points heading into the 2025 NFL Draft was about just how few picks the Minnesota Vikings had at their disposal. But with Kwesi running the show, the Vikings are gaining a reputation for finding talent on the fringes, then developing those players into legitimate NFL contributors.

Silas Bolden is another player worth keeping an eye on. The Texas Longhorns wideout handled 30 punts last season and his 315 return yards paced the SEC. He even housed one for the second straight season.

As camp goes on this summer, there will be other unknown names that emerge from the list of rookies above. The more of them that hit, the greater opportunity Minnesota has at upside options with cost-controlled contracts.

Of course, Roger Goodell and the league knows this fact. It’s why they turned the made-for-television NFL Draft into a spectator event in the first place. But the NFL has also made the draft into something where some of the less-featured cities in the league can have their moment to shine.

NFL Draft would draw in Minnesota Vikings fans

This year, draft picks were welcomed to the league in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The event drew in more than 600,000 fans across the three days. Minnesota, and specifically the Vikings, are trying to get in on a piece of that pie in the near future too. Pioneer Press columnist Charley Walters says they are targeting 2029 as the year.

“The Vikings are focusing on getting the NFL draft for 2029 in Minneapolis. Minnesota Sports Events, intent on acquiring the roving draft, had its group in Green Bay for last week’s event. The NFL will decide on the site of the 2029 draft in 2027.”

Charley Walters – Pioneer Press

According to a report earlier this week from Darren Wolfson (KSTP) on a recent episode of the Mackey and Judd Show on SKOR North, the Vikings are aiming to host the draft in Minneapolis, not Eagan, which had been previously rumored.

Related: 2025 Minnesota Vikings Draft Class is Complete

Adding the NFL Draft to the 2029 schedule for Minnesota could make for a fun couple of months. The Ryder Cup is scheduled to take place at Hazeltine National just a few months later. With a decision needing to be made by 2027, the Vikings will have a couple more years to solidify their plans prior to making an official pitch.

2029 a big year for MN Vikings

Last NFL Draft cycle the Minnesota Vikings grabbed their quarterback of the future in the form of J.J. McCarthy. He will be under center this season as the unquestioned starter. After burning a year of his rookie contract due to an injury, 2029 may be the first year in which he’s an unrestricted free agent.

J.J. McCarthy to Trishton Jackson for the 45 yard TD!

And @JJettas2 LOVES it!

📺: #LVvsMIN on @NFLNetwork
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/QmEKsnabMz

— NFL (@NFL) August 10, 2024

Minnesota will decide on McCarthy’s fifth-year option prior to the 2028 season, but they hope to be in a place where it’s a no-brainer to accept. Kevin O’Connell has had a year to impart wisdom on his new signal caller from the sidelines. Now he’ll need to have that development translate to games.

The Vikings roster is primed to win right now, but they aren’t exactly young. The way in which Minnesota is positioned for the 2029 draft could bring plenty of intrigue to a franchise looking at hosting the event.

Then, came the NFL Draft, where the Vikings held the fewest number of picks (4) in franchise history and the fewest in the 2025 draft. After sticking and picking at No. 24, general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah maneuvered throughout the next six rounds, eventually compiling a class of five new rookies. Oh, and don’t forget about the 20 UDFAs they signed after the draft.

Minnesota Vikings land in Top 10 of post-draft NFL Power Rankings

No matter the time of year, the NFL has power rankings available that help fans follow along with who is seen by league analysts as the best teams. Of course, that doesn’t mean those experts are right. Look no further than last season, when the Vikings were picked to finish at the bottom of the NFL. We all know how that turned out.

This year, however, the post draft power rankings appear much higher on Minnesota than what we saw last offseason. The Athletic, for example, has the Vikings ranked as the 9th-best team in football in their post-draft rankings.

9. Minnesota Vikings

First pick: OL Donovan Jackson

After adding veteran defenders Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave through free agency, the Vikings focused on offense during the draft with Jackson, third-round wide receiver Tai Felton and a Saturday trade for quarterback Sam Howell. The exception to the offensive approach was a big one — 6-5, 276-pound edge rusher Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins out of Georgia.

The Athletic

LG Donovan Jackson — Minnesota’s first round pick — figures to be the day-one starter at left guard this season, as long as offseason workouts and training camp go according to plan. 3rd round pick WR Tai Felton looks primed to factor in early, as well, and EDGE Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins continues to be talked up as a nice addition.

Related: Doesn’t Seem Like Kevin O’Connell is a Fan of “Unique” NFL Offseason Rules; Expects Major Changes

Taking an offensive guard, after signing Will Fries (Guard) and Ryan Kelly (Center) in free agency, solidified a Minnesota Vikings offensive line that Kwesi and head coach Kevin O’Connell promised to fix this offseason, a mission that got more serious when it was clear 2024 first round pick J.J. McCarthy would be taking over as QB1.

J.J. McCarthy throwing a football pic.twitter.com/DpK4dZ31vj

— Alec Lewis (@alec_lewis) April 29, 2025

The Vikings still have some questions at the cornerback position, but this roster really doesn’t have any glaring weaknesses anymore. That should make them one of the most dangerous teams in the NFC, something The Athletic agrees with.

Who good are the new-look Vikings?

Kevin O’Connell, who won his first Coach of the Year award last season, undoubtedly plays into the optimism, as well. While Detroit remains the gold standard amongst NFC North teams — ranked 5th in The Athletic’s power rankings — it’s clear the Minnesota Vikings are on the rise. Why is Green Bay ranked 7th? Who knows…

It’s certainly plausible that the Minnesota Vikings win less games in 2025 but are a better team. After winning 14 games last season, there isn’t a lot of room for improvement… outside of winning a postseason game. When projecting the Vikings’ 2025 season, that should be the ultimate goal.

Last year, the Vikings’ warts were evident. They couldn’t run the ball when they needed to, and struggled in interior pass pro. That shouldn’t be a problem anymore. Same thing can be said on defense.

Related: Local Scoops Insider Offers Interesting ‘Apology’ for Viral Mean Tweets

While Andrew Van Ginkel (11.5 sacks) and Jonathan Greenard (12.0 sacks) wrapped up the quarterback plenty, the interior defensive line struggled. Minnesota’s investment on both sides of the ball there will pay dividends. Even with secondary concerns, the talent up front could help to mitigate them.

Regardless of where the power rankings fall now, or as the season gets underway, the Minnesota Vikings should be a force to be reckoned with in 2025.

When the dust settled on the three day party in Green Bay Saturday evening, the Vikings walked away with five new draft picks for the 2025 camp roster, which tied (2008), for the least amount of picks since the franchise came into existence in 1961.

Realistically, the Minnesota Vikings’ 2025 offseason will be judged much more on its free agency signings than it is on the draft. But if Kwesi can hit on some of these longer-shot picks, it could be a turning point in his tenure as Vikings GM.

Minnesota Vikings earn lukewarm grade from Mel Kiper

If there’s one person in this world that’s never played or coached in the NFL, who’s name is most synonymous with the league’s Annual Player Selection Meeting, it’s ESPN’s Mel Kiper. The original NFL Draft expert has been the media face of the draft since he made his first appearance on ESPN’s draft coverage back in 1984.

A staple of Mel’s yearly coverage of the NFL Draft are his post-draft grades, where he gave the Minnesota Vikings an underwhelming B- for their 2025 class. It wasn’t necessarily the number of picks that hurt the Vikings, though it certainly didn’t help. Instead, Kiper was disappointed that Kwesi couldn’t land Brian Flores another talented CB to help out in a very thin secondary, hopefully now, but for sure in the future.

“Minnesota, however, came into this draft with just four total picks, the fewest of any team (the Vikings added one more via a trade with the Rams). If general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah was going to help out his young passer, he was going to have to do it with surgical precision. The first move was Donovan Jackson in Round 1. He will take Blake Brandel’s spot at left guard, where he will help both as a pass protector and run blocker. Somewhat surprisingly, Jackson was the third guard off the board at No. 24.

The Vikings got some value with the next few picks. Receiver Tai Felton had 96 catches last season; Minnesota landed my No. 83 prospect at No. 102. Edge rusher Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins didn’t fill the stat sheet in a deep Georgia rotation, but he has some traits that can be developed. He was No. 123 on my board, acquired at No. 139.

Adofo-Mensah did what he could with the team’s limited picks, but I wanted to see the Vikings snag an impact cornerback who could thrive in Brian Flores’ aggressive system.”

Mel Kiper – ESPN

Analyzing Kiper’s Minnesota Vikings analysis

Kiper was a bit surprised by the Jackson pick, at No. 24. He did not have him as the third guard coming off the board. From there, he likes the upside in Maryland wide receiver, Tai Felton who the MN Vikings selected as the final pick in the 3rd round.

The 6’2″ 178 lb Senior hauled in 96 catches last season for 1,124 yards and shined at Huntington Bank Stadium against the Gophers, where he caught 9 passes for 104 yards. He’ll likely get punt/kick return reps immediately, and could also challenge Nailor for WR3 early on, as well.

Special things happen when @taifelton has the ball in his hands. #Skol pic.twitter.com/eVnXf9xNQ3

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) April 26, 2025

When we factor in Jordan Addison’s likely suspension — originating from his DUI arrest in LA last summer — Tai’s role on offense could be even bigger. No matter where they were picked, all five of the Minnesota Vikings selections from Thursday-Saturday has a legitimate chance at making the 2025 53-man roster out of camp.

Vikings new draft picks locked for roster spots?

Of course both Jackson and Felton are locks for roster spots, as long as they are healthy. Defensive lineman Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins likely has too much talent to cut from the roster, as well. Given the limited depth Minnesota has at inside linebacker, I would be surprised if 6th round pick Kobe King can’t make the roster. I’d bet on him making it over Brian Asamoah, at this point.

Related: 2025 Minnesota Vikings Draft Class is Complete

Kevin O’Connell’s favorite value pick from the weekend might be Pittsburgh tight end, Gavin Bartholomew (6th round). He comes in as the Vikings’ 3rd tight end, behind TJ Hockenson and Josh Oliver. Last season, Minnesota had three-four tight ends active for every game.

Rather than trading out of the first round and grabbing additional picks, something many pundits projected, the Vikings stuck at 24th overall and picked Ohio State left guard, Donovan Jackson, a move meant to complete the offseason overhaul of their offensive line.

Later in the draft General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah moved around, eventually compiling five total selections, when all was said and done. And early indications, just hours since the final pick went off the board Saturday afternoon, suggest the MN Vikings did pretty well.

RAS scores high on Minnesota Vikings draft picks

If there is something that has been a fair criticism of Kwesi Adofo-Mensah during his time as the Minnesota Vikings general manager, it has been his draft classes. Let’s just say that the pile of busts towers over the hits by quite a wide margin.

But if you believe in an NFL prospect rating system labeled “RAS” or Relative Athletic Score, then Kwesi’s latest draft might have you believing in his abilities as a talent evaluator yet again. After finishing 25th in average RAS score during the 2024 draft, the Minnesota Vikings’ 2025 class finished No. 2 overall in RAS score, at 8.968.

2. The #Vikings came in second with an average #RAS of 8.968. All five of their picks qualified for a score and all of them were in elite range. They ranked 25th last season, so this is a big jump. pic.twitter.com/nyYraNXZjd

— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) April 27, 2025

RAS (relative athletic score) is a tool developed by Kent Lee Platte. It is defined as “a metric that combines the various categories measured at the NFL Combine — height, weight, wingspan, drill exercises — into one aggregate number that’s then contextualized against other athletes of the same position”.

Related: 2025 Minnesota Vikings Draft Class is Complete

Platte’s RAS algorithm includes data dating back to 1987, though he openly acknowledges that anything from before 2000 is somewhat thin and incomplete. Georgia edge rusher, Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins (taken in the fifth round) earned the highest RAS grade for the Minnesota Vikings, at 9.79.

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins was drafted in round 5 pick 139 in the 2025 draft class. He scored a 9.79 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 44 out of 2033 DT from 1987 to 2025. https://t.co/TRJWVgmwYB pic.twitter.com/lwFInuRDsA

— Kent Lee Platte (@MathBomb) April 26, 2025

TYRION INGRAM-DAWKINS IS A MAJOR DISRUPTOR #skol
pic.twitter.com/dhAfD8aCqR

— SuperHawkeyeFan (@superhawkeyefan) April 26, 2025

The Washington Commanders, who also made just five selections, are the only team with a better RAS grade than the Vikings (8.986). Minnesota’s first round selection of Jackson earned an 8.96 RAS grade. If the metric bears fruit, then the Vikings may have their best class ever assembled underneath Adofo-Mensah.

Minnesota Vikings looking for youth contributions

It’s great that the MN Vikings were able to do so much work in free agency this offseason. That happened due to an ample amount of cap space. All of those players are veterans though, and many of them come with injury concerns.

A sustainable roster is one that incorporates youth, along with its proven talent. It’s difficult for a team to keep a window open if their average age continues to increase. The Vikings can’t just hope some of these guys hit. If they want to continue to compete at the highest level, they need some of them to.

Related: All 20 Minnesota Vikings Undrafted Free Agents

If we assume Donovan Jackson is going to step in and contribute right away. The other four selections, and 20 undrafted free agents, will probably need more time. If Kevin O’Connell and his coaching staff can make usable talents out of this rookie class, then Adofo-Mensah will have done his job.

There is reason to be excited about this group. Even before they step on the field at the professional level, advanced metrics already like what the Minnesota Vikings are doing.

However, by the time the weekend was done, the Vikings emerged with five new draftees, instead of the expected four. They even swung a trade for a new backup quarterback. After it all, who are the Vikings’ three biggest winners and losers from the NFL Draft?

Related: 2025 Minnesota Vikings Draft Class is Complete

2025 Minnesota Vikings Draft Day Loser: Blake Brandel

The biggest loser from the Vikings’ draft class is clearly Blake Brandel. Before the draft kicked off, the former sixth-round pick was in line to reclaim his role as the starting left guard. Now? After selecting Donovan Jackson with the 24th overall pick, Brandel is expected to return to a backup role in 2025.

That doesn’t mean he won’t or can’t make an impact on the upcoming season. Not only can he go back to the role he thrived in, which is playing swing OL whenever called upon, but the Minnesota Vikings will need him to push Jackson in camp.

Related: NFL Draft Experts Drool Over New MN Viking, Donovan Jackson

And at the end of the day, there’s no guarantee Donovan Jackson is NFL-ready, right from the get-go. As a first-round pick, that may be the expectation. But expectations do not always align with reality. It won’t take long for the Vikings to realize what they have in their new left guard.

When that time comes, Brandel’s future role in purple will be more clear. Without a doubt, however, it’s clear that Brandel’s job is considerably more in jeopardy today than it was on Thursday afternoon.

Loser: Brett Rypien

Like Brandel, Brett Rypien was set for a more featured role this season, as J.J. McCarthy’s backup quarterback. That’s an upgrade from last season when he became the QB3 as rosters were being finalized. Yet, once again, Rypien is set to become the team’s No. 3 quarterback following the trade for Sam Howell.

While Rypien, 28, may be disappointed in his QB3 role, we all knew the Vikings were going to add another quarterback before the season started. Here’s the thing, though… in a matter of minutes on Saturday, Rypien may have dropped from QB2, all the way down to QB4.

The Minnesota Vikings didn’t just add one rookie quarterback this weekend, they also made former Minnesota Gophers quarterback Max Brosmer a priority undrafted free agent signing, even guaranteeing him $250,000 to seal the deal.

Related: Max Brosmer is Staying in Minnesota

Vikings fans out there who double as Gopher football fans, know… Max Brosmer is not going to give up his purple jersey without a fight. So with all the young talent in the Vikings new QB room, it’s very plausible Rypien could once again find himself on the outside looking in, when final training camp cuts are made, come August.

Loser: Jalen Nailor

Jalen Nailor is headed into the final year of his contract, and the Vikings may not be able to afford a second contract for the speedster. Yet, by adding Tai Felton, the Vikings get a new potential long-term WR3, and like Nailor, he’s quick.

Felton clocked a 4.37 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, and the Vikings believe he can be their next playmaker who helps take attention away from Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson. The Vikings also added five undrafted free agent receivers, showing how eager they are to find another pass-catcher who can contribute on a weekly basis.

Related: Minnesota Vikings Swing Trade and Draft New Wide Receiver

2025 MN Vikings Draft Day Winner: Jordan Mason

When the offseason kicked off, running back was listed as one of the Minnesota Vikings’ biggest needs. Re-signing Aaron Jones and trading for Jordan Mason — who went for 789 rushing yards (3 TD) and 164 receiving yards with the Niners last season — has KOC & Co feeling comfortable with their backfield entering the 2025 season.

But that wasn’t clear heading into the draft. Given their interest in running backs throughout the scouting process, RB still felt like a position the Vikings would target with one of their four draft picks, even if they waited until the later rounds. At the end of the day, this draft class just had too much running back talent to just pass up, right?

Related: Minnesota Vikings Have Big Plans for Jordan Mason

Then, seven rounds went by without the Vikings selecting anyone with an “RB” in front of their name. Now, barring any unforeseen additions between now and week one, it appears this team’s backfield work in 2025 will be divvied up between mostly Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason, with some Ty Chandler sprinkled in.

With Jones’ now 30, Mason will get every opportunity to prove he can be a future starter.

Winner: Christian Darrisaw

How is Christian Darrisaw a winner? No one was ever coming for the former first-round pick’s starting spot. However, the Minnesota Vikings hope his life at left tackle just got a whole lot easier, with the addition of No. 24 overall, Donovan Jackson, who’s expected to slot in right next to Darrisaw at left guard.

Since he took over as the starter in 2021, Darrisaw has dealt with a turnstile of bad to mediocre guards to help him protect the left side of the MN Vikings offensive line. If Jackson is what the Vikings believe, he should be able to take the starting left guard spot away from the aforementioned Blake Brandel pretty quickly.

Related: Christian Darrisaw Blown Away by How Good Dallas Turner is Already

As long as the next three months play out on the practice and preseason fields, like they do right now on paper, then Christian Darrisaw’s life just got a whole lot easier, and that’s before you factor in the improvement at center (Ryan Kelly) and right guard (Will Fries).

Ideally, not only will Darrisaw be able to focus on sealing the edge — without having to worry as much about making sure Brandel is handling his assignment too — but he can also take his time getting healthy, after season-ending knee surgery in 2024.

If he can’t return immediately in 2025, Jackson played an impressive left tackle last season at Ohio State. And when he does return, he won’t be pulling double duty (hopefully).

Winner: J.J. McCarthy

There’s no bigger winner in the NFL Draft than J.J. McCarthy, who now has an even more reinforced offensive line, plus a new weapon to work with thanks to the Vikings’ first two picks.

Instead of trying to find more pieces for Brian Flores’ defense, the Vikings opted to do everything in their power to make sure their year-old QB had everything he needed to succeed in his first season as a starter.

Related: All 20 Minnesota Vikings Undrafted Free Agents

Instead of picking a running back, receiver, or tight end first, the Vikings made a move that they hope will give McCarthy more time to make his reads while protecting him in the pocket.

Ultimately, the Vikings may have very well made the best decision to help their young leader thrive, but that shouldn’t come as a surprise considering how QB-friendly Kevin O’Connell’s system has become.