2025 Vikings Offseason

[Vanimal46]

18 minutes ago, gunnarthor said:

He already resigned with the Chargers.

Ah shoot. Amari Cooper it is then 

[DocBauer]

Nailor should be fine as the #2 for 3 games. Especially if Hockensen is OK to begin the season 100%, which he should be.

Considering he seems to be 100% and ready to go, I think a lot of people are ignoring the potential of Rondale Moore. He was basically ALL EVERYTHING at various times in college. The fact that he's small made him slip to the 2nd round when drafted. Who knows if he can last for 17 games, but as a returner and #4 WR he's dynamite in a small package.

From early reports, it sounds like Felton is struggling some. But he's not going anywhere. We still have a month and 3 preseason games to go. I think the question is who is the temporary WR for the first 3 games? Lucky Jackson, J Jones, and Thayer Thomas all have at least 1 season learning the system as practice squad players. Jones in particular had a really good camp and solid preseason, but has had a couple drop issues. And Tim Jones isn't much of a receiver in his career, but is considered a good ST player and blocker, similar to Sherfield who hung around most of 2024.

My biggest concern right now is QB #2. I know it's early and we have 3 preseason games to go, and I know the offense is facing one of the best defenses in the NFL, but I was really expecting Howell to take a Donaldson-like step forward with this coaching staff and secure the #2 spot. And maybe he still will. But I'm starting to wonder if we might be considering alternatives out there for the #2 spot?

[Mike Sixel]

I couldn't care less about the backup QB. You dont win squat in this league with a backup. It's all on McCarthy. And health.

[nicksaviking]

14 hours ago, Vanimal46 said:

The charges he actually got from law enforcement seems light. 3 games in the NFL was expected…

If I’m the Vikings I look at bringing Keenan Allen into the fold. From what I’m reading the WR room looks pretty pedestrian outside of JJ and Addison. Might as well load up now so we can see if McCarthy can be the guy to build around. 

 

12 hours ago, gunnarthor said:

He already resigned with the Chargers.

I'm surprised Amari Cooper is still available. 

I wonder if Cooper is waiting out the Terry McLauren situation though. The Commanders have brought over Noah Brown and Michael Gallop, two receivers from Dan Quinn's Cowboy days. Maybe it's just a coincidence as Quinn is a defensive guy, but maybe he's got a thing for his old Dallas pass catchers.

[DocBauer]

For those of us who are BIG 10 fans, we know very well who Rondale Moore is. He pretty much destroyed ever team in the conference at some point. But his size made him a #2 pick. And he certainly had had a mixed  NFL career so far due to injury.

But the talent is still there to make a difference. He doesn't have to be a #1 or #2. He only has to be a healthy #4 as a returner and dangerous slot receiver. 

 

[Mike Sixel]

Moore looks like he's out for the year. 

[TheLeviathan]

11 minutes ago, Mike Sixel said:

Moore looks like he's out for the year. 

I think that will force a depth move.

[nicksaviking]

10 minutes ago, TheLeviathan said:

I think that will force a depth move.

For sure, starting tonight, I bet the wonks start projecting Cooper to the Vikings.

[DocBauer]

Moore getting hurt AGAIN really stinks! What a bummer for a young guy with so much talent.

I'm a BIG preseason guy even though I know the games mean nothing. But it excites me to see the younger guys and look at depth matchups. In other words, do our backups look promising? And are they better than the other teams backups? 

My thoughts:

1] Other than the 1st defensive opportunity, I thought the defense played really well. It almost looked like they weren't awake that first drive?

2] Howell looked solid to me. I was concerned after reports were he was looking slow to make decisions in practice. I thought he looked solid, #2's vs #2's. I was also impressed by Brosmer even though, again, we're talking 2's and 3's from both teams. He looked confident and cool. He looked off primary receivers at times, and threw about 4 really tight DARTS that were impressive, one that was dropped.

3] Chandler looked just fine. But frankly, Scott looked better. I saw good instincts to find the open lane, and good explosion and body lean. I also saw a couple good blitz pickups. I think he might be a surprise as the #3 RB at this point.

4] I've been a little confused about roster predictions that have dismissed Murphy or Richter being replaced by UDFA Batty. The initial depth chart has Batty behind both. He's very intriguing due to size and potential, even though he's a little "old" for a prospect. And to be fair, Batty has potential and had a couple solid pass rushes and he tipped a ball that lead to an interception. But Murphy and Richter both had good games and appear to be keepers.

5] I was generally really impressed by the 2nd OL. Again, were our #2's better than there #2's? I think they were. I noticed that Joe Huber...UDFA from Wisconsin...played almost the entire game at RG. I was impressed. I think he's a steal of a PS player who I believe should also cross train at CENTER. I believe he's played it briefly in his college career. I was sorry to see UDFA Zeke Corell limp off the field late in the game. I hope it's nothing serious. I thought he looked decent in his limited time and thought he might also be an interesting PS addition.

Did I miss something, or did UDFA OT Logan Brown not play? He was considered maybe the #1 UDFA available post draft.

6] TE #3 just might be settled for some time yet.

7] Lucky Jackson just might end up making the roster. We keep hearing he's been a big surprise in camp, and he had a couple nice grabs today.

Your thoughts?

[Fatbat]

2 hours ago, DocBauer said:

Moore getting hurt AGAIN really stinks! What a bummer for a young guy with so much talent.

I'm a BIG preseason guy even though I know the games mean nothing. But it excites me to see the younger guys and look at depth matchups. In other words, do our backups look promising? And are they better than the other teams backups? 

My thoughts:

1] Other than the 1st defensive opportunity, I thought the defense played really well. It almost looked like they weren't awake that first drive?

2] Howell looked solid to me. I was concerned after reports were he was looking slow to make decisions in practice. I thought he looked solid, #2's vs #2's. I was also impressed by Brosmer even though, again, we're talking 2's and 3's from both teams. He looked confident and cool. He looked off primary receivers at times, and threw about 4 really tight DARTS that were impressive, one that was dropped.

3] Chandler looked just fine. But frankly, Scott looked better. I saw good instincts to find the open lane, and good explosion and body lean. I also saw a couple good blitz pickups. I think he might be a surprise as the #3 RB at this point.

4] I've been a little confused about roster predictions that have dismissed Murphy or Richter being replaced by UDFA Batty. The initial depth chart has Batty behind both. He's very intriguing due to size and potential, even though he's a little "old" for a prospect. And to be fair, Batty has potential and had a couple solid pass rushes and he tipped a ball that lead to an interception. But Murphy and Richter both had good games and appear to be keepers.

5] I was generally really impressed by the 2nd OL. Again, were our #2's better than there #2's? I think they were. I noticed that Joe Huber...UDFA from Wisconsin...played almost the entire game at RG. I was impressed. I think he's a steal of a PS player who I believe should also cross train at CENTER. I believe he's played it briefly in his college career. I was sorry to see UDFA Zeke Corell limp off the field late in the game. I hope it's nothing serious. I thought he looked decent in his limited time and thought he might also be an interesting PS addition.

Did I miss something, or did UDFA OT Logan Brown not play? He was considered maybe the #1 UDFA available post draft.

6] TE #3 just might be settled for some time yet.

7] Lucky Jackson just might end up making the roster. We keep hearing he's been a big surprise in camp, and he had a couple nice grabs today.

Your thoughts?

I missed the game… gonna watch some tape tomorrow am with coffee ☕️ 

[Mike Sixel]

In the least shocking news ever:

Moore out for the year.

Asamoah released.

[Danchat]

On 8/9/2025 at 8:08 PM, DocBauer said:

Did I miss something, or did UDFA OT Logan Brown not play? He was considered maybe the #1 UDFA available post draft.

Brown played on the 4th team OL. Seems like he’s gonna be a PS stash.

[Fatbat]

4 hours ago, Mike Sixel said:

In the least shocking news ever:

Moore out for the year.

Asamoah released.

Was Asamoah that bad? I thought he was turning into a special teams hero?

[nicksaviking]

13 hours ago, Fatbat said:

Was Asamoah that bad? I thought he was turning into a special teams hero?

No need. This team is going to kick a dozen touchbacks a game and will never punt.

[gunnarthor]

13 hours ago, Fatbat said:

Was Asamoah that bad? I thought he was turning into a special teams hero?

What I've read on DN suggests that they Vikes like a couple guys - Chambliss and King - a lot and need room for them. While Asamoah was big part of the special teams, the other guys might have more versatility. Also, releasing him now gives him time to catch on with other teams. Some pointed out that he was a Donatell type but didn't work well in Flores scheme.

[Danchat]

21 hours ago, Fatbat said:

Was Asamoah that bad? I thought he was turning into a special teams hero?

He was fairly good on special teams, but they do save $1.4M by cutting him. He did get claimed on waivers (by the first team in line, too) so he'll probably stick in the league for a while as a special teamer.

[DocBauer]

On 8/13/2025 at 5:25 PM, Danchat said:

He was fairly good on special teams, but they do save $1.4M by cutting him. He did get claimed on waivers (by the first team in line, too) so he'll probably stick in the league for a while as a special teamer.

Just to add a bit, you'd think he was a athletic "tool" to fit in to Flores' defense SOMEWHERE.

He's not fast/quick enough apparently to move to the "monster" role that Metellus has. And not physical enough to plug the middle. And considering how often the defense employs 3 and even 4 EDGE guys at times, he didn't seem to fit there either.

Good call to let him go now to see if he can find a fit elsewhere. 

[DocBauer]

On 8/9/2025 at 4:22 PM, TheLeviathan said:

I think that will force a depth move.

I disagree. 

JJ and Addison are the clear 1-2. Nailor is a good #3. (I'd like a re-sign). Draftee Felton is going nowhere. The SURPRISE had been Lucky Jackson...who knows the system well...suddenly jumping up as a viable option. Apparently, his time with the 1's wasn't just a reward or a flier with JJ out. And Jones came close to making the roster last year except for some drops and inconsistencies overall in his game. 

A certain website keeps pumping Bolden making the roster as a PR. Maybe. But he hasn't really flashed at this point. But Price has also been fielding punts in practice and has actually looked like a potential receiver as well. So he might sneak on to the roster, but I think Bolden is a PS player. 

I just don't think they need to add someone from the outside at this point. 

[DocBauer]

Saturdays game will have few, if any starters seeing game time. Their "game time" has been with the practices with the Patriots this week in camp.

What and who will you be watching?

For ME:

1] QB: Howell looked pretty solid. Can he keep it up? Brosmer looked so much better than Rypien. Can he avoid a PS season and be the #3?

2] RB: Frankly, Scott completely outshined Chandler. They played with the same OL, but Scott showed better reads and more explosion when he made a decisive move.

3] EDGE: I think Batty was a really, really good UDFA pickup with potential even though he's a bit older. He didn't have a bad game #1. But I've always thought Murphy and Richter were above him. Can he make opinions change with 2 games to go?

4] OL: Honesty, I was SHOCKED Brown barely played at OT considering he was one of the TOP UDFA available. Maybe they can sneak him through to the PS? And I was equally shocked by the performance of Joe Huber. I really liked him as an UDFA who fit best at OG, and might be a perfect candidate to learn to play C, which he has done briefly previously. He had a great game #1! Again, are our #2's better than their #2's is what I'm looking at. He probably doesn't make the 53 man roster, but boy does he look like a good PS player.

5] DL: It's probably already set. And that's not a bad thing. But it kinda stinks when a guy like Taimani deserves a role and there just isn’t sn open spot for him right now.

Keep an eye on Elijah Williams from D2 Morgan State. He re-wrote the record books at his school and has tested highly in all athletic categories. I'm NOT saying he's some 2nd coming of John Randle. That would be ABSURD! But if you look at production, and strength, speed, quickness, and similar size...you can see a ghost of the past that makes you wonder just a bit if he's got a chance after a PS season. He had a good game #1.

6] SECONDARY: I think the top 4 at SAFETY is set. Who makes the PS will be what I'm looking for. My hunch is the top 5 at CB is probably set. But do they keep 6 ultimately? Does anyone step forward? Does someone start to step forward for an obvious PS candidate?

7] Who returns what and how well?

8] I don't think Wright is a poor punter. But he has lagged a bit in corner kicks, or dropping kicks where wanted. Again, not a bad punter. But is Chapman actually challenging him from some practice reports I've heard?

That's just what I'm thinking about and will be watching. 

[Fatbat]

On 8/14/2025 at 11:12 PM, DocBauer said:

I disagree. 

JJ and Addison are the clear 1-2. Nailor is a good #3. (I'd like a re-sign). Draftee Felton is going nowhere. The SURPRISE had been Lucky Jackson...who knows the system well...suddenly jumping up as a viable option. Apparently, his time with the 1's wasn't just a reward or a flier with JJ out. And Jones came close to making the roster last year except for some drops and inconsistencies overall in his game. 

A certain website keeps pumping Bolden making the roster as a PR. Maybe. But he hasn't really flashed at this point. But Price has also been fielding punts in practice and has actually looked like a potential receiver as well. So he might sneak on to the roster, but I think Bolden is a PS player. 

I just don't think they need to add someone from the outside at this point. 

I agree. I don’t see how they fit more skilled players on the roster if they can cover KR and PR with existing guys.  JJ has a full tool box to throw to. 

[TheLeviathan]

On 8/14/2025 at 9:12 PM, DocBauer said:

I disagree. 

JJ and Addison are the clear 1-2. Nailor is a good #3. (I'd like a re-sign). Draftee Felton is going nowhere. The SURPRISE had been Lucky Jackson...who knows the system well...suddenly jumping up as a viable option. Apparently, his time with the 1's wasn't just a reward or a flier with JJ out. And Jones came close to making the roster last year except for some drops and inconsistencies overall in his game. 

A certain website keeps pumping Bolden making the roster as a PR. Maybe. But he hasn't really flashed at this point. But Price has also been fielding punts in practice and has actually looked like a potential receiver as well. So he might sneak on to the roster, but I think Bolden is a PS player. 

I just don't think they need to add someone from the outside at this point. 

Here's the thing....Nailor has a hand injury, Addison has a suspension, JJ has been nursing something all training camp, and Hockenson has a lengthy history.  

Bring back Brandon Powell, try Gabe Davis or Amari Cooper, Nelson Agoholor.  Just bring in an experienced reciever with the issue going on.  That's where I'm at.

[Vanimal46]

I’ve got to imagine Kwesi is making some calls around the league for a veteran WR, and an experienced backup QB.

I’m not sold on Howell at all as QB 2. He threw a terrible INT yesterday and it’s been reported consistently that he’s not doing well in our system. I like Brosmer and think there’s something to build on with him. But having him as QB 2 is very risky. 
 

[DocBauer]

3 hours ago, TheLeviathan said:

Here's the thing....Nailor has a hand injury, Addison has a suspension, JJ has been nursing something all training camp, and Hockenson has a lengthy history.  

Bring back Brandon Powell, try Gabe Davis or Amari Cooper, Nelson Agoholor.  Just bring in an experienced reciever with the issue going on.  That's where I'm at.

I am a little worried about Nailor right now. If he was fine, or there was no suspension for Addison, I think we're probably fine as is. But the combination of those 2 things now has me worried slightly.

[DocBauer]

I couldn't watch the Patriots game live. I was blacked out in Omaha for some reason. But I got to watch the replay today? Anyone have any thoughts?

It was a damn sloppy game with missed opportunities. But watching it vs only seeing the final numbers online offers up a different perspective to me. Of course, preseason games really don't mean much. Especially the way KOC approaches them vs practice and scrimmages. JMO on a few things:

1 QB: Howell didn't play as bad as what the final numbers showed. His interception as under duress and he did a poor job of getting the ball out of bounds. Chandler had a really bad drop all alone in the middle of the field that really killed a solid drive. And Jackson had a drop near the sideline that wasn't an easy catch, but not a hard one either. Rypien was pretty solid, functional if not great. A couple solid throws, and a couple that didn't look 100% on target, but were caught. He had Thayer Thomas open for a TD by overthrew him. And Jackson had another drop that would have gotten them closer for another shot. They passed up a FG for a 4th down TD attempt that failed. For the 2nd week in a row I was impressed by Brosmer and how collected in charge he was. The game doesn't seem "too big" for him. Unless they make some major change before the season starts, I'm betting they keep Brosmer and try to re-sign Rypien to the PS.

2] RB: Despite the one really bad drop, Chandler ran hard and seemed to pass block well. I don't know that he's done anything to lose his job. But I'm also not sure you keep Scott off the roster. He runs hard and seems to have a really good feel for running lanes. His final rushing totals were affected by some short attempts in the 2nd half. He seems to have good hands and good feel for the passing game. He was EXCELLENT on the screen passes he was a part of.

3] OL: Despite some inconsistent play, the OL was generally solid. Blitz pickups weren't very good, but we're talking 2nd and 3rd lines throughout the game, so some lack of continuity might be expected. And the Vikings mixed up where guys played a week ago. A mixed bag of good and bad. I just can't say anyone necessarily stood out either way. 

4] DL: I should almost include the entire defense here to be honest. The line was all 3rd team beyond Ingram-Dawkins. There were some really solid performances/plays where everyone shone defending the run or creating a pass rush. Taimani made the roster in 2024 initially before getting hurt and missing the rest of the season. He looks good again this preseason but I don't see room for him. Small school Eligah Williams was someone I targeted for everyone to watch after they signed him. All he does is make plays. Jonathan Harris made a couple nice plays this week as well. And Batty is being used as a DL and as an EDGE rusher. Batty affected a thrown pass and applied some pressure. More on the DL later.

5] LB/EDGE: King has continued to flash some and it's obvious why Asamoah was released. He's still lacking polish, but he shows thump and had a nice play defending a pass. Richter just keeps making plays, flashes, and is always around the ball. Not sure why so many have predicted he's on the bubble. UDFA Keys was around the ball quite a bit and might be a solid PS candidate. Same with Chambliss who they've played a little in the middle as well as the edge. Solid PS candidate. 

6] DB: There were a couple blown coverages that lead to Patriot scores that shouldn't have happened. Ward continued to look solid. Not sure if Tavierre Thomas is now a SAFETY, or a CB, or a mix of both. But he has a nose for the ball. I think he just might make the final roster. 

7] ST/WR: Felton had a couple nice plays at WR, but also fumbled a KO that was thankfully recovered. Jackson dropped a couple balls that won't help him. But with a strong camp, I don't know if this game hurts his chances. But Myles Price really stepped forward in the return game, while also catching a couple of balls. I think he makes the club. Chapman has looked good punting, but Wright hasn't seemed to do anything to lose the job. 

GAME CONCLUSION: Very sloppy in some drops, penalties, and missed assignments. And the final score doesn't matter. The Pat's played more starters in the game and the Vikes played only a couple 2nd teamers on defense and offense, otherwise it was 2's and 3's throughout. But not going for a FG...which they would have in a normal game...a couple blown coverages...a couple drops...and some poor tackling on some key plays made the difference in winning vs losing was the difference. For whatever that's worth!

MY OWN PERSONAL DILEMMAS: 

A] I wish there was room for Chandler AND Scott at RB. I'm just not ready to give up on Chandler yet because at times he's really flashed in a reserve role. But I LOVE the way Scott attacks a hole, and shows great vision with the ball in his hands. I think I'd go with Scott and hope Chandler could be on the PS

B] I'm a bit mixed on Howell as QB #2. You hope you don't need him, but you still need a competent #2 at times. I remain very impressed with his potential to work in this system and raise his game as a young QB who's been through some rough times. (Similar to Donaldson). DOES/HAS he secured that spot in the coaches minds? There's a LOT that we don't see. I just can't imagine all the other 31 teams would pass on Brosmer at this point. He's got to be the #3.

C] With the remake of the OL, I'm pretty impressed with what the 2nd team has looked like overall. I think Byrd has developed and shown he can be a solid reserve. I thought Huber was a great UDFA signing for the PS who should spend some more time learning center as well as playing OG. But he's also flashed enough to indicate he might be ready for regular backup duty as well. And Brown was ranked by many sites as maybe the #1 UDFA available. But he's hardly played in either game. Is he that rough around the edges? Or are the Vikings "hiding" him based on potential and PS duty? Can we keep all 3 for the PS? Or do we need to keep a 10 man OL?

D] Were I a rebuilding team, or someone lacking depth, I'd be looking HARD towards the Vikings right now for options. The TOP 6 appear to a great collection of proven talent, and a young and developing backup 3. As mentioned previously, Taimani made the team in 2024 after a great camp and preseason before getting hurt a couple weeks in and spending the rest of the season on the IL. He's having another great preseason. He's worthy of being on an NFL roster as a backup NG.

Once again, when the Vikes signed Elijah Williams from small school Morgan State, I said to watch this kid. After reviewing his measurables, and re-writing record books, I was a little surprised he wasn't invited to the combine, much less listed as a priority UDFA. And all he's done in 2 games is make plays. Of course, he's not a finished product yet. But when a #3 DL on the Vikings beats up on other teams #2's and #3's, I'd bet others are paying attention. 

But how can the Vikings make room for a 7th DL, much less an 8th? Is there a realistic chance both can slide through to the PS?

Lastly, Tyler Batty was SUPPOSED to be drafted as a late rounder this past draft based on size, strength, run stopping ability, and some decent pass rush ability, as well as normal projection. But being 26yo coming out of BYU without crazy numbers on his resume, he slipped through. While I've NEVER bought in to various "roster projections" that had him bypassing Murphy and Richter...who are even better now...I thought he would a great PS depth piece who could play some DL as well as on the EDGE. And that's how Flores has been deploying him. No idea what he's done IN CAMP, through 2 preason games he's deflected a ball, changed the direction of a ball, provided pressure, and made some nice tackles. 

Just in very recent history, all 3 of these guys would be SERIOUS challengers to make the final roster. Thankfully, our DL is so good and deep right now we have this "roster crunch". I can see situations where all 3 could make an impact for a 4-3 team out there needing depth, much less a 3-4 team needing the same.

I mean, let's just suppose for a moment the Vikings suddenly became a 4-3 team again and forget we'd have too many OLB, LOL. There's a real possibility that at least 2 of these guys would make the roster.

The Vikings scouting department has done an AMAZING job finding UDFA talent over the past few years. And they've done it again here. I'm just HOPING other teams are so clued in to their own teams that a trio of really interesting backup/development players will be ignored and they can keep all 3 on the PS for depth and new looks in 2026.

 

[Vanimal46]

39 minutes ago, DocBauer said:

I couldn't watch the Patriots game live. I was blacked out in Omaha for some reason. But I got to watch the replay today? Anyone have any thoughts?

It was a damn sloppy game with missed opportunities. But watching it vs only seeing the final numbers online offers up a different perspective to me. Of course, preseason games really don't mean much. Especially the way KOC approaches them vs practice and scrimmages. JMO on a few things:

1 QB: Howell didn't play as bad as what the final numbers showed. His interception as under duress and he did a poor job of getting the ball out of bounds. Chandler had a really bad drop all alone in the middle of the field that really killed a solid drive. And Jackson had a drop near the sideline that wasn't an easy catch, but not a hard one either. Rypien was pretty solid, functional if not great. A couple solid throws, and a couple that didn't look 100% on target, but were caught. He had Thayer Thomas open for a TD by overthrew him. And Jackson had another drop that would have gotten them closer for another shot. They passed up a FG for a 4th down TD attempt that failed. For the 2nd week in a row I was impressed by Brosmer and how collected in charge he was. The game doesn't seem "too big" for him. Unless they make some major change before the season starts, I'm betting they keep Brosmer and try to re-sign Rypien to the PS.

2] RB: Despite the one really bad drop, Chandler ran hard and seemed to pass block well. I don't know that he's done anything to lose his job. But I'm also not sure you keep Scott off the roster. He runs hard and seems to have a really good feel for running lanes. His final rushing totals were affected by some short attempts in the 2nd half. He seems to have good hands and good feel for the passing game. He was EXCELLENT on the screen passes he was a part of.

3] OL: Despite some inconsistent play, the OL was generally solid. Blitz pickups weren't very good, but we're talking 2nd and 3rd lines throughout the game, so some lack of continuity might be expected. And the Vikings mixed up where guys played a week ago. A mixed bag of good and bad. I just can't say anyone necessarily stood out either way. 

4] DL: I should almost include the entire defense here to be honest. The line was all 3rd team beyond Ingram-Dawkins. There were some really solid performances/plays where everyone shone defending the run or creating a pass rush. Taimani made the roster in 2024 initially before getting hurt and missing the rest of the season. He looks good again this preseason but I don't see room for him. Small school Eligah Williams was someone I targeted for everyone to watch after they signed him. All he does is make plays. Jonathan Harris made a couple nice plays this week as well. And Batty is being used as a DL and as an EDGE rusher. Batty affected a thrown pass and applied some pressure. More on the DL later.

5] LB/EDGE: King has continued to flash some and it's obvious why Asamoah was released. He's still lacking polish, but he shows thump and had a nice play defending a pass. Richter just keeps making plays, flashes, and is always around the ball. Not sure why so many have predicted he's on the bubble. UDFA Keys was around the ball quite a bit and might be a solid PS candidate. Same with Chambliss who they've played a little in the middle as well as the edge. Solid PS candidate. 

6] DB: There were a couple blown coverages that lead to Patriot scores that shouldn't have happened. Ward continued to look solid. Not sure if Tavierre Thomas is now a SAFETY, or a CB, or a mix of both. But he has a nose for the ball. I think he just might make the final roster. 

7] ST/WR: Felton had a couple nice plays at WR, but also fumbled a KO that was thankfully recovered. Jackson dropped a couple balls that won't help him. But with a strong camp, I don't know if this game hurts his chances. But Myles Price really stepped forward in the return game, while also catching a couple of balls. I think he makes the club. Chapman has looked good punting, but Wright hasn't seemed to do anything to lose the job. 

GAME CONCLUSION: Very sloppy in some drops, penalties, and missed assignments. And the final score doesn't matter. The Pat's played more starters in the game and the Vikes played only a couple 2nd teamers on defense and offense, otherwise it was 2's and 3's throughout. But not going for a FG...which they would have in a normal game...a couple blown coverages...a couple drops...and some poor tackling on some key plays made the difference in winning vs losing was the difference. For whatever that's worth!

MY OWN PERSONAL DILEMMAS: 

A] I wish there was room for Chandler AND Scott at RB. I'm just not ready to give up on Chandler yet because at times he's really flashed in a reserve role. But I LOVE the way Scott attacks a hole, and shows great vision with the ball in his hands. I think I'd go with Scott and hope Chandler could be on the PS

B] I'm a bit mixed on Howell as QB #2. You hope you don't need him, but you still need a competent #2 at times. I remain very impressed with his potential to work in this system and raise his game as a young QB who's been through some rough times. (Similar to Donaldson). DOES/HAS he secured that spot in the coaches minds? There's a LOT that we don't see. I just can't imagine all the other 31 teams would pass on Brosmer at this point. He's got to be the #3.

C] With the remake of the OL, I'm pretty impressed with what the 2nd team has looked like overall. I think Byrd has developed and shown he can be a solid reserve. I thought Huber was a great UDFA signing for the PS who should spend some more time learning center as well as playing OG. But he's also flashed enough to indicate he might be ready for regular backup duty as well. And Brown was ranked by many sites as maybe the #1 UDFA available. But he's hardly played in either game. Is he that rough around the edges? Or are the Vikings "hiding" him based on potential and PS duty? Can we keep all 3 for the PS? Or do we need to keep a 10 man OL?

D] Were I a rebuilding team, or someone lacking depth, I'd be looking HARD towards the Vikings right now for options. The TOP 6 appear to a great collection of proven talent, and a young and developing backup 3. As mentioned previously, Taimani made the team in 2024 after a great camp and preseason before getting hurt a couple weeks in and spending the rest of the season on the IL. He's having another great preseason. He's worthy of being on an NFL roster as a backup NG.

Once again, when the Vikes signed Elijah Williams from small school Morgan State, I said to watch this kid. After reviewing his measurables, and re-writing record books, I was a little surprised he wasn't invited to the combine, much less listed as a priority UDFA. And all he's done in 2 games is make plays. Of course, he's not a finished product yet. But when a #3 DL on the Vikings beats up on other teams #2's and #3's, I'd bet others are paying attention. 

But how can the Vikings make room for a 7th DL, much less an 8th? Is there a realistic chance both can slide through to the PS?

Lastly, Tyler Batty was SUPPOSED to be drafted as a late rounder this past draft based on size, strength, run stopping ability, and some decent pass rush ability, as well as normal projection. But being 26yo coming out of BYU without crazy numbers on his resume, he slipped through. While I've NEVER bought in to various "roster projections" that had him bypassing Murphy and Richter...who are even better now...I thought he would a great PS depth piece who could play some DL as well as on the EDGE. And that's how Flores has been deploying him. No idea what he's done IN CAMP, through 2 preason games he's deflected a ball, changed the direction of a ball, provided pressure, and made some nice tackles. 

Just in very recent history, all 3 of these guys would be SERIOUS challengers to make the final roster. Thankfully, our DL is so good and deep right now we have this "roster crunch". I can see situations where all 3 could make an impact for a 4-3 team out there needing depth, much less a 3-4 team needing the same.

I mean, let's just suppose for a moment the Vikings suddenly became a 4-3 team again and forget we'd have too many OLB, LOL. There's a real possibility that at least 2 of these guys would make the roster.

The Vikings scouting department has done an AMAZING job finding UDFA talent over the past few years. And they've done it again here. I'm just HOPING other teams are so clued in to their own teams that a trio of really interesting backup/development players will be ignored and they can keep all 3 on the PS for depth and new looks in 2026.

 

I didn’t count the words you typed here, but it’s approximately 10,000 more words than what’s necessary from a preseason game. 

[DocBauer]

18 minutes ago, Vanimal46 said:

I didn’t count the words you typed here, but it’s approximately 10,000 more words than what’s necessary from a preseason game. 

That's fine. Nobody has to read it. I just enjoy the backups and young talent as try to see who fits where to put together a roster for the season.

[Danchat]

15 hours ago, DocBauer said:

1 QB: Howell didn't play as bad as what the final numbers showed. His interception as under duress and he did a poor job of getting the ball out of bounds.

He created that pressure by bailing out of a clean pocket and running right into a pass rusher... the rest of his play was fine, but it was a really boneheaded play by a guy who was eventually benched for throwing bad picks and taking a lot of sacks. Not ideal for a backup QB.

And yes, I also agree that Brosmer is QB3. They can't let him hit the waiver wire as I think he has potential to be a decent QB2. The Vikings have had a surprising amount of success with their UDFA QBs the last 10 years even if it hasn't been with us (Heinicke, Browning, Sloter).

15 hours ago, DocBauer said:

A] I wish there was room for Chandler AND Scott at RB. I'm just not ready to give up on Chandler yet because at times he's really flashed in a reserve role. But I LOVE the way Scott attacks a hole, and shows great vision with the ball in his hands. I think I'd go with Scott and hope Chandler could be on the PS

I doubt they'll have any troubles getting one of them to the PS. Chandler is already 27 and a known quantity at this point, and Scott is a rather obscure prospect. Most teams have fringe RBs like this and replacements could be easily found on the waiver wire. 

15 hours ago, DocBauer said:

C] With the remake of the OL, I'm pretty impressed with what the 2nd team has looked like overall. I think Byrd has developed and shown he can be a solid reserve. I thought Huber was a great UDFA signing for the PS who should spend some more time learning center as well as playing OG. But he's also flashed enough to indicate he might be ready for regular backup duty as well. And Brown was ranked by many sites as maybe the #1 UDFA available. But he's hardly played in either game. Is he that rough around the edges? Or are the Vikings "hiding" him based on potential and PS duty? Can we keep all 3 for the PS? Or do we need to keep a 10 man OL?

They have gone with 10 OL in the previous two years at times, I wouldn't rule it out. I think Byrd is that 10th guy with his flexibility to play tackle and guard, but I don't know if he's needed. Brandel can already do that, Skule and Rouse seem to be locks at tackle, and Jurgens is the backup center. They already have enough bodies who can play tackle. I think they can get Huber to the PS, though I'm not as high on him.

[nicksaviking]

Per Tom Pelissero, the Vikings unsurprisingly are looking for a WR trade:

https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/report-vikings-exploring-trade-options-at-wide-receiver

This is way too late in my book. Adam Theilen is the only one who makes sense, not because I'd like a reunion, but there's not enough time for a new guy to get up to speed.

Everyone knew Addison was going to be suspended, if they were going to bring someone in, why didn't they sign Amari Cooper or Gabe Davis or someone two months ago?

[gunnarthor]

16 minutes ago, nicksaviking said:

Per Tom Pelissero, the Vikings unsurprisingly are looking for a WR trade:

https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/report-vikings-exploring-trade-options-at-wide-receiver

This is way too late in my book. Adam Theilen is the only one who makes sense, not because I'd like a reunion, but there's not enough time for a new guy to get up to speed.

Everyone knew Addison was going to be suspended, if they were going to bring someone in, why didn't they sign Amari Cooper or Gabe Davis or someone two months ago?

I think their budget is pretty low so a guy like Cooper is probably out of their price range. Not a big Gabe Davis fan. He was solid when he had an elite QB but was really bad in Jax. I'd have Nailor ahead of him. 

[nicksaviking]

45 minutes ago, gunnarthor said:

I think their budget is pretty low so a guy like Cooper is probably out of their price range. Not a big Gabe Davis fan. He was solid when he had an elite QB but was really bad in Jax. I'd have Nailor ahead of him. 

I imagine Nailor is going to be ahead of anyone they trade for. It's likely going to be a roster bubble player.

But what I'm seeing is the Vikings have 26M in salary cap space. Next year they are in trouble but a 1-year deal of any kind shouldn't impact that.