5 hours ago
It's a tough job. But somebody's gotta do it.
Step right up, Michele Meyer-Shipp.
Nearly five months ago, Meyer-Shipp replaced Rod Graves as executive director of the Fritz Pollard Alliance (FPA), an independent organization that promotes and monitors minority hiring for head coaching roles and other high-level positions in the NFL.
Yeah, that NFL. The one where Black coaches were 1-for-18 in landing the top jobs over the past two hiring cycles. The one that is a defendant, along with several teams, in a class-action lawsuit brought forth by Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores and two former coaches alleging racial discrimination. The one under attack from the Florida attorney general, aiming to wipe out the Rooney Rule, which ties so closely to the FPA's mission.
The challenges for Meyer-Shipp come from multiple directions, with multiple layers, against the political winds of the anti-DEI movement pushed by the highest levels of government.
#graves
Step right up, Michele Meyer-Shipp.
Nearly five months ago, Meyer-Shipp replaced Rod Graves as executive director of the Fritz Pollard Alliance (FPA), an independent organization that promotes and monitors minority hiring for head coaching roles and other high-level positions in the NFL.
Yeah, that NFL. The one where Black coaches were 1-for-18 in landing the top jobs over the past two hiring cycles. The one that is a defendant, along with several teams, in a class-action lawsuit brought forth by Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores and two former coaches alleging racial discrimination. The one under attack from the Florida attorney general, aiming to wipe out the Rooney Rule, which ties so closely to the FPA's mission.
The challenges for Meyer-Shipp come from multiple directions, with multiple layers, against the political winds of the anti-DEI movement pushed by the highest levels of government.
#graves
7 hours ago
Other NFL team previews: 32. Dolphins | 31. Jets | 30. Cardinals | 29. Browns | 28. ******* ans | 27. Raiders | 26. Falcons | 25. Giants | 24. Saints | 23. Panthers | 22. Buccaneers | 21. Colts | 20. Steelers | 19. Vikings | 18. Commanders | 17. Bengals | 16. Jaguars | 15. Packers | 14. Chargers | 13. 49ers | 12. Chiefs | 11. Bears | 10. Texans | 9. Eagles | 8. Cowboys | 7. Ravens | 6. Lions | 5. Patriots
Among the countless interesting tidbits in an ESPN story shadowing Sean Payton for a week before last season's AFC Championship game was one of Payton's "playoff myths" he shared with the team.
The myth he showed his players was, "We'll Be Back Next Year." Payton followed that by telling the team, "Nothing is promised."
The Denver Broncos had a remarkable season with a weird ending. Not long after the Broncos beat the Buffalo Bills in one of the most thrilling games of last postseason, Payton returned to the podium and shared with the media that Bo Nix had broken his ankle and was out for the rest of the season, including the AFC championship game.
The Broncos battled in that AFC ******* le game against the Patriots with Jarrett Stidham starting at quarterback, but one massive turnover by Stidham and a questionable fourth-down gamble in the first half, along with a blinding snowstorm in the second half, might have cost them a win and a chance to play in the Super Bowl. As Payton told the team before the game, being in that position might not happen again.
#team
Among the countless interesting tidbits in an ESPN story shadowing Sean Payton for a week before last season's AFC Championship game was one of Payton's "playoff myths" he shared with the team.
The myth he showed his players was, "We'll Be Back Next Year." Payton followed that by telling the team, "Nothing is promised."
The Denver Broncos had a remarkable season with a weird ending. Not long after the Broncos beat the Buffalo Bills in one of the most thrilling games of last postseason, Payton returned to the podium and shared with the media that Bo Nix had broken his ankle and was out for the rest of the season, including the AFC championship game.
The Broncos battled in that AFC ******* le game against the Patriots with Jarrett Stidham starting at quarterback, but one massive turnover by Stidham and a questionable fourth-down gamble in the first half, along with a blinding snowstorm in the second half, might have cost them a win and a chance to play in the Super Bowl. As Payton told the team before the game, being in that position might not happen again.
#team
12 hours ago
The Minnesota Vikings quarterback competition is heating up, and no one is backing down on social media from defending who they think should win the job. Through it all, the coaching staff has remained steadfast in their execution of this quarterback competition, while some on the outside consider it already Kyler Murray's job to lose.
However, on Wednesday, J.J. McCarthy spoke to the media and shared some of the reasons he remains positive he can earn the job.
He explained, "Once I got healthier after that Seattle week, Washington, Dallas, I felt like I was hitting that upward trajectory, and I'm certain it's still been going up since then."
McCarthy finished the season with more interceptions than touchdowns, but in that final stretch, he did play better. In the final stretch of four games, he had five touchdowns to two interceptions, and the decision-making was getting better overall.
Early on in camp, it seems to be carrying over, but plenty of time is left in this quarterback battle.
#Media #interceptions #touchdowns #minnesota
However, on Wednesday, J.J. McCarthy spoke to the media and shared some of the reasons he remains positive he can earn the job.
He explained, "Once I got healthier after that Seattle week, Washington, Dallas, I felt like I was hitting that upward trajectory, and I'm certain it's still been going up since then."
McCarthy finished the season with more interceptions than touchdowns, but in that final stretch, he did play better. In the final stretch of four games, he had five touchdowns to two interceptions, and the decision-making was getting better overall.
Early on in camp, it seems to be carrying over, but plenty of time is left in this quarterback battle.
#Media #interceptions #touchdowns #minnesota
13 hours ago
Rookies, when they enter the NFL, are bound to spend some of their rookie contract on a variety of things. Most tend to buy things or help out family, others look for the car or house they have wanted. In the case of Minnesota Vikings first-round pick Caleb Banks, he spent some of his early rookie contract on something...different.
The Athletic's Alec Lewis shared on Wednesday that Banks, who is known for his unique collection of pets, had added another spider and three more snakes to his family of exotic pets. Earlier in the offseason, Banks shared he had already had two pythons, a chameleon, and a cane corso.
Ironically, the cane corso is the most tame pet in his family, considering it is a dog.
Caleb Banks said he bought another spider and three more snakes this offseason. We're back. https://t.co/diJht0wBfU
However, on the field, Banks has shown to be explosive early on and has overcome some early setbacks in the offseason program after being drafted. The former Florida Gator had suffered a broken foot in January so seeing him on the field is a sight to behold for the Vikings franchise.
#offseason #rookie #contract #shared
The Athletic's Alec Lewis shared on Wednesday that Banks, who is known for his unique collection of pets, had added another spider and three more snakes to his family of exotic pets. Earlier in the offseason, Banks shared he had already had two pythons, a chameleon, and a cane corso.
Ironically, the cane corso is the most tame pet in his family, considering it is a dog.
Caleb Banks said he bought another spider and three more snakes this offseason. We're back. https://t.co/diJht0wBfU
However, on the field, Banks has shown to be explosive early on and has overcome some early setbacks in the offseason program after being drafted. The former Florida Gator had suffered a broken foot in January so seeing him on the field is a sight to behold for the Vikings franchise.
#offseason #rookie #contract #shared
1 day ago
Other NFL team previews: 32. Dolphins | 31. Jets | 30. Cardinals | 29. Browns | 28. ****** ans | 27. Raiders | 26. Falcons | 25. Giants | 24. Saints | 23. Panthers | 22. Buccaneers | 21. Colts | 20. Steelers | 19. Vikings | 18. Commanders | 17. Bengals | 16. Jaguars | 15. Packers | 14. Chargers | 13. 49ers | 12. Chiefs | 11. Bears | 10. Texans | 9. Eagles | 8. Cowboys | 7. Ravens | 6. Lions
There aren't many teams through NFL history who won 14 games and a conference championship.
The list of Super Bowl participants who won 14 games and then were ignored like the New England Patriots were this offseason might be a party of one.
It seems odd. The Patriots had a magnificent season with new coach Mike Vrabel, who won NFL Coach of the Year. Quarterback Drake Maye would have won NFL MVP in his second NFL season had just one voter flipped his or her first-place vote from Matthew Stafford to him. Typically, that profile gets hyped up all offseason as the next in line to win a Super Bowl or two. Instead, the most you've heard about the Patriots this offseason had to do with Vrabel's off-field missteps.
The Patriots being dismissed started late last season, when talk of strength of schedule crept into the conversation in a way it rarely has in NFL circles. It was the third easiest by DVOA since 1978, according to Aaron Schatz of FTN Fantasy, with only the 1991 Bills and 1999 Rams having an easier schedule. The chatter about strength of schedule probably cost Maye the MVP award. It was also probably overdone.
#offseason
There aren't many teams through NFL history who won 14 games and a conference championship.
The list of Super Bowl participants who won 14 games and then were ignored like the New England Patriots were this offseason might be a party of one.
It seems odd. The Patriots had a magnificent season with new coach Mike Vrabel, who won NFL Coach of the Year. Quarterback Drake Maye would have won NFL MVP in his second NFL season had just one voter flipped his or her first-place vote from Matthew Stafford to him. Typically, that profile gets hyped up all offseason as the next in line to win a Super Bowl or two. Instead, the most you've heard about the Patriots this offseason had to do with Vrabel's off-field missteps.
The Patriots being dismissed started late last season, when talk of strength of schedule crept into the conversation in a way it rarely has in NFL circles. It was the third easiest by DVOA since 1978, according to Aaron Schatz of FTN Fantasy, with only the 1991 Bills and 1999 Rams having an easier schedule. The chatter about strength of schedule probably cost Maye the MVP award. It was also probably overdone.
#offseason
2 days ago
Training camp is finally underway, which means dominoes are going to start falling day by day in the quarterback battle between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy. Early on, there are not likely to be many nuggets that we get from camp, but head coach Kevin O'Connell did throw the media one bone.
Sports Illustrated's Will Ragatz shared that O'Connell told the media on Tuesday, July 28, that they will be splitting first-team reps in camp early on.
The offense is built to elevate the quarterbacks, even if they are looking for that relationship to be the other way. Both McCarthy and Murray are going to be with the best supporting cast and offensive line they have ever had. It may seem inconventional, but the offense will figure out the starter for the coaching staff by showing them who they work best with, not the other way around.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Both Vikings quarterbacks will get first team reps in training camp
#murray #Vikings #going
Sports Illustrated's Will Ragatz shared that O'Connell told the media on Tuesday, July 28, that they will be splitting first-team reps in camp early on.
The offense is built to elevate the quarterbacks, even if they are looking for that relationship to be the other way. Both McCarthy and Murray are going to be with the best supporting cast and offensive line they have ever had. It may seem inconventional, but the offense will figure out the starter for the coaching staff by showing them who they work best with, not the other way around.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Both Vikings quarterbacks will get first team reps in training camp
#murray #Vikings #going
2 days ago
The Las Vegas Raiders did much to improve their roster this offseason. While the Raiders are still a developing team, they addressed areas of need well in preparation for next season.
Sports Illustrated's Eva Geitheim labeled the Raiders as the most improved team of the offseason due to the range of improvements that the team made dating back to last winter.
"The Raiders entered the offseason with more cap ***** e than any other team, and proceeded to use that money wisely by retooling their roster with the additions of Tyler Linderbaum, Quay Walker, Nakobe Dean, Kwity Paye and Jalen Nailor in free agency. Not only did the Raiders turn to the open market to bolster the roster, they changed the coaching staff—highlighted by the addition of Klint Kubiak, fresh off a Super Bowl win as the Seahawks' offensive coordinator—and used the No. 1 pick on Heisman Trophy–winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza."
Other teams around the league, including the Tennessee ***** ans, Cincinnati Bengals and Minnesota Vikings improved their rosters greatly this offseason as well. To the credit of the Raiders though, they made a multitude of moves that gave them the veteran and youthful talent that they need on the offensive line, at quarterback, running back and on defense for next season.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Are the Raiders the most improved team of the offseason?
#team #need #well #made
Sports Illustrated's Eva Geitheim labeled the Raiders as the most improved team of the offseason due to the range of improvements that the team made dating back to last winter.
"The Raiders entered the offseason with more cap ***** e than any other team, and proceeded to use that money wisely by retooling their roster with the additions of Tyler Linderbaum, Quay Walker, Nakobe Dean, Kwity Paye and Jalen Nailor in free agency. Not only did the Raiders turn to the open market to bolster the roster, they changed the coaching staff—highlighted by the addition of Klint Kubiak, fresh off a Super Bowl win as the Seahawks' offensive coordinator—and used the No. 1 pick on Heisman Trophy–winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza."
Other teams around the league, including the Tennessee ***** ans, Cincinnati Bengals and Minnesota Vikings improved their rosters greatly this offseason as well. To the credit of the Raiders though, they made a multitude of moves that gave them the veteran and youthful talent that they need on the offensive line, at quarterback, running back and on defense for next season.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Are the Raiders the most improved team of the offseason?
#team #need #well #made
2 days ago
Minnesota Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell continues to talk about the battle for the team's starting quarterback position.
Former Cardinals lightning rod Kyler Murray, in the eyes of many social media accounts, is the clear-cut No. 1 choice to start the season. Their opinions received a boost Wednesday, July 29, when Murray hit on a long touchdown pass to wide receiver Jordan Addison.
Murray, who turns 29 on Aug. 7, won the Heisman Trophy while at Oklahoma and was the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year after being selected No. 1 overall by Arizona in the 2019 NFL Draft.
He signed a one-year veteran's minimum contract with the Vikings during the offseason following his release from the Cardinals.
#kevin
Former Cardinals lightning rod Kyler Murray, in the eyes of many social media accounts, is the clear-cut No. 1 choice to start the season. Their opinions received a boost Wednesday, July 29, when Murray hit on a long touchdown pass to wide receiver Jordan Addison.
Murray, who turns 29 on Aug. 7, won the Heisman Trophy while at Oklahoma and was the NFL's Offensive Rookie of the Year after being selected No. 1 overall by Arizona in the 2019 NFL Draft.
He signed a one-year veteran's minimum contract with the Vikings during the offseason following his release from the Cardinals.
#kevin
2 days ago
Other NFL team previews: 32. Dolphins | 31. Jets | 30. Cardinals | 29. Browns | 28. ******* ans | 27. Raiders | 26. Falcons | 25. Giants | 24. Saints | 23. Panthers | 22. Buccaneers | 21. Colts | 20. Steelers | 19. Vikings | 18. Commanders | 17. Bengals | 16. Jaguars | 15. Packers | 14. Chargers | 13. 49ers | 12. Chiefs | 11. Bears | 10. Texans | 9. Eagles | 8. Cowboys | 7. Ravens
Dan Campbell wasn't happy with the Detroit Lions' 2025-26 season, nor should he have been.
He said the Lions underachieved. That's hard to argue after a 9-8 record and no playoff berth. He gave himself "a freaking F" for the job he did last season.
"But I really don't believe we're that far off," Campbell said. "There's a couple of things we can do, and I just want to make sure we go after it. I'm not saying we weren't hungry, but let's get that hunger back, and we're going to bring in some guys to compete."
After a season like the Lions just had, ******* ody wants to hear how they were actually better than their disappointing record. But they were.
#lions #record #cardinals #Browns
Dan Campbell wasn't happy with the Detroit Lions' 2025-26 season, nor should he have been.
He said the Lions underachieved. That's hard to argue after a 9-8 record and no playoff berth. He gave himself "a freaking F" for the job he did last season.
"But I really don't believe we're that far off," Campbell said. "There's a couple of things we can do, and I just want to make sure we go after it. I'm not saying we weren't hungry, but let's get that hunger back, and we're going to bring in some guys to compete."
After a season like the Lions just had, ******* ody wants to hear how they were actually better than their disappointing record. But they were.
#lions #record #cardinals #Browns
3 days ago
The Las Vegas Raiders have made one of the biggest decisions of training camp, and for now, they're putting their trust in NFL experience over potential.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, first-year head coach Klint Kubiak has named veteran Kirk Cousins as the team's starting quarterback ahead of their opening practice at training camp. While the decision isn't necessarily permanent, it signals that the Raiders believe Cousins gives them the best opportunity to win right now, even with one of the league's most highly anticipated rookies waiting in the wings.
MORE: Vikings to honor legend during 2026 NFL season
Jun 9, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarteback Kirk Cousins (8) during minicamp at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Kubiak made his stance clear about the quarterback competition. "When we go out to practice tomorrow, Kirk Cousins is the starting quarterback. He's the guy, and he deserves it because he's played really good football."
#made
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, first-year head coach Klint Kubiak has named veteran Kirk Cousins as the team's starting quarterback ahead of their opening practice at training camp. While the decision isn't necessarily permanent, it signals that the Raiders believe Cousins gives them the best opportunity to win right now, even with one of the league's most highly anticipated rookies waiting in the wings.
MORE: Vikings to honor legend during 2026 NFL season
Jun 9, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarteback Kirk Cousins (8) during minicamp at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Kubiak made his stance clear about the quarterback competition. "When we go out to practice tomorrow, Kirk Cousins is the starting quarterback. He's the guy, and he deserves it because he's played really good football."
#made
3 days ago
EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Vikings have suspended defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander for three weeks without pay following a drunken driving charge for an incident earlier this year.
The Vikings announced the punishment Tuesday as they began training camp. Alexander's suspension began Friday and will be in effect until Aug. 13, two days before their first preseason game at the New York Giants.
"I take full responsibility for the situation I put myself in and apologize for not meeting the mark," Alexander said in a statement released by the Vikings. "I know it's unacceptable. I understand the suspension and am committed to learning from the matter and ensuring I come back a better version of myself."
Alexander, who was also given the ****** le of defensive passing game coordinator, was hired in February to replace Daronte Jones, who became defensive coordinator of the Washington Commanders.
According to Hennepin County court records, Alexander pled guilty July 16 to a gross misdemeanor charge of third degree driving while impaired for refusal to submit to a chemical test. A fourth degree driving while impaired charge was dismissed. He was sentenced to 48 hours of community service, placed on two years of unsupervised probation and fined $603.
#defensive #began #suspension #coordinator
The Vikings announced the punishment Tuesday as they began training camp. Alexander's suspension began Friday and will be in effect until Aug. 13, two days before their first preseason game at the New York Giants.
"I take full responsibility for the situation I put myself in and apologize for not meeting the mark," Alexander said in a statement released by the Vikings. "I know it's unacceptable. I understand the suspension and am committed to learning from the matter and ensuring I come back a better version of myself."
Alexander, who was also given the ****** le of defensive passing game coordinator, was hired in February to replace Daronte Jones, who became defensive coordinator of the Washington Commanders.
According to Hennepin County court records, Alexander pled guilty July 16 to a gross misdemeanor charge of third degree driving while impaired for refusal to submit to a chemical test. A fourth degree driving while impaired charge was dismissed. He was sentenced to 48 hours of community service, placed on two years of unsupervised probation and fined $603.
#defensive #began #suspension #coordinator
3 days ago
The Seattle Seahawks will be throwing it back to the 1990s for two of their nine home games this regular season.
Seattle's widely acclaimed throwback uniforms will be worn in primetime against a pair of high profile opponents:
Week 7 (Oct. 25) vs. Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday Night Football
Week 13 (Dec. 7) vs. Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football
The Seahawks are permitted up to three throwback games under the NFL's alternate uniform policy. Last year they had an iconic double throwback thriller with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who were also celebrating their 50th season and came out of Lumen Field as 38-35 winners. Seattle took its throwbacks on the road to Maryland for a 38-14 beatdown of the Washington Commanders on Sunday Night Football, before scoring a 26-0 shoutout win in the same unis against the Minnesota Vikings.
#night #throwback #seahawks
Seattle's widely acclaimed throwback uniforms will be worn in primetime against a pair of high profile opponents:
Week 7 (Oct. 25) vs. Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday Night Football
Week 13 (Dec. 7) vs. Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football
The Seahawks are permitted up to three throwback games under the NFL's alternate uniform policy. Last year they had an iconic double throwback thriller with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who were also celebrating their 50th season and came out of Lumen Field as 38-35 winners. Seattle took its throwbacks on the road to Maryland for a 38-14 beatdown of the Washington Commanders on Sunday Night Football, before scoring a 26-0 shoutout win in the same unis against the Minnesota Vikings.
#night #throwback #seahawks
3 days ago
EAGAN, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings quarterback competition is continuing into training camp.
Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy will split first-team snaps during the early portion of camp.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell met with each of his quarterbacks as they reported to camp this week to explain his vision and plan for managing snaps and determining who will start Week 1. O'Connell has an ideal timeline in mind for making a decision, he said Tuesday, though he declined to share it publicly.
"I told the quarterbacks: 'We don't need to make this 50-50,'" O'Connell said in an introductory news conference from team headquarters. "I know we'll be thorough. I know both guys will feel like they've gotten an opportunity to compete."
O'Connell expects Murray and McCarthy to have similar numbers of first-team reps initially but that gap will widen based off the structure of camp as well as what defensive coordinator Brian Flores is dialing up for his group at any time. Perhaps one quarterback will get more reps on a day because he's shown the coaches less third-down work so far, for example. Another day, a different emphasis could shift the evaluation.
#camp #mccarthy #quarterback #first
Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy will split first-team snaps during the early portion of camp.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell met with each of his quarterbacks as they reported to camp this week to explain his vision and plan for managing snaps and determining who will start Week 1. O'Connell has an ideal timeline in mind for making a decision, he said Tuesday, though he declined to share it publicly.
"I told the quarterbacks: 'We don't need to make this 50-50,'" O'Connell said in an introductory news conference from team headquarters. "I know we'll be thorough. I know both guys will feel like they've gotten an opportunity to compete."
O'Connell expects Murray and McCarthy to have similar numbers of first-team reps initially but that gap will widen based off the structure of camp as well as what defensive coordinator Brian Flores is dialing up for his group at any time. Perhaps one quarterback will get more reps on a day because he's shown the coaches less third-down work so far, for example. Another day, a different emphasis could shift the evaluation.
#camp #mccarthy #quarterback #first
3 days ago
The Minnesota Vikings locked up one of their longest-tenured players on Tuesday, agreeing to an extension with right tackle Brian O'Neill, per Adam Schefter. According to Schefter, the deal is four years, $96 million, keeping O'Neill in purple through the 2030 season.
O'Neill was entering the final year of his deal, with no guaranteed money in the 2026 season. There was speculation that he may do a "hold-in" to protect himself in the case of injury until a new deal was done, but now he and the team don't have to worry about that scenario.
Veterans were set to report on Tuesday, with quarterbacks having done so on Monday and rookies on Sunday. So the deal removes any questions about O'Neill's short and long-term status with the team.
O'Neill is entering his ninth season with the team. If Harrison Smith retires, O'Neill will be the longest-tenured player on the roster. His 81.6 PFF grade in 2025 ranked second among all offensive players, even while fighting through injuries that held him out of three games.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Vikings sign star offensive tackle Brian O'Neill to an extension
#o 'neill #deal #team #brian
O'Neill was entering the final year of his deal, with no guaranteed money in the 2026 season. There was speculation that he may do a "hold-in" to protect himself in the case of injury until a new deal was done, but now he and the team don't have to worry about that scenario.
Veterans were set to report on Tuesday, with quarterbacks having done so on Monday and rookies on Sunday. So the deal removes any questions about O'Neill's short and long-term status with the team.
O'Neill is entering his ninth season with the team. If Harrison Smith retires, O'Neill will be the longest-tenured player on the roster. His 81.6 PFF grade in 2025 ranked second among all offensive players, even while fighting through injuries that held him out of three games.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Vikings sign star offensive tackle Brian O'Neill to an extension
#o 'neill #deal #team #brian
3 days ago
Running back Adrian Peterson played for seven NFL teams. He'll always be remembered as a Viking.
On Monday, November 9, the Vikings will induct Peterson into their Ring of Honor.
Peterson, who won the NFL's MVP award in 2012 with a near-record 2,097 rushing yards a season after suffering a torn ACL on Christmas Eve, ranks fifth on the all-time rushing list, with 14,918 yards. In ten years with the Vikings, he rushed for 11,747 yards.
Peterson's career was marred in 2014, when he missed nearly all of the season on paid leave following felony child-abuse charges that resulted in a no-contest plea to misdemeanor reckless ******* ault.
The following season, he led the league in rushing, with 1,485 yards.
#rushing
On Monday, November 9, the Vikings will induct Peterson into their Ring of Honor.
Peterson, who won the NFL's MVP award in 2012 with a near-record 2,097 rushing yards a season after suffering a torn ACL on Christmas Eve, ranks fifth on the all-time rushing list, with 14,918 yards. In ten years with the Vikings, he rushed for 11,747 yards.
Peterson's career was marred in 2014, when he missed nearly all of the season on paid leave following felony child-abuse charges that resulted in a no-contest plea to misdemeanor reckless ******* ault.
The following season, he led the league in rushing, with 1,485 yards.
#rushing
3 days ago
The NFL offseason lasts about five months, from the Super Bowl in mid-February to training camps starting mid-July.
With nearly 150 days passing between the two bookends of the season, it is hard to remember all of the moves that occurred in the offseason and the players who will be suiting up in new places as a new year begins.
With every team officially at training camp, we recap the biggest moves of the offseason and answer a burning question for each team.
Click on the following links to jump to a specific team:
AFC East: Buffalo Bills | Miami Dolphins | New England Patriots | New York Jets
AFC North: Baltimore Ravens | Cincinnati Bengals | Cleveland Browns | Pittsburgh Steelers
AFC South: Houston Texans | Indianapolis Colts | Tennessee ******* ans | Jacksonville Jaguars
AFC West: Denver Broncos | Kansas City Chiefs | Las Vegas Raiders | Los Angeles Chargers
NFC East: Dallas Cowboys | New York Giants | Philadelphia Eagles | Washington Commanders
NFC North: Chicago Bears | Detroit Lions | Green Bay Packers | Minnesota Vikings
NFC South: Atlanta Falcons | Carolina Panthers | New Orleans Saints | Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFC West: Arizona Cardinals | Los Angeles Rams | San Francisco 49ers | Seattle Seahawks
What will Joe Brady do in his first season as head coach?
#york
With nearly 150 days passing between the two bookends of the season, it is hard to remember all of the moves that occurred in the offseason and the players who will be suiting up in new places as a new year begins.
With every team officially at training camp, we recap the biggest moves of the offseason and answer a burning question for each team.
Click on the following links to jump to a specific team:
AFC East: Buffalo Bills | Miami Dolphins | New England Patriots | New York Jets
AFC North: Baltimore Ravens | Cincinnati Bengals | Cleveland Browns | Pittsburgh Steelers
AFC South: Houston Texans | Indianapolis Colts | Tennessee ******* ans | Jacksonville Jaguars
AFC West: Denver Broncos | Kansas City Chiefs | Las Vegas Raiders | Los Angeles Chargers
NFC East: Dallas Cowboys | New York Giants | Philadelphia Eagles | Washington Commanders
NFC North: Chicago Bears | Detroit Lions | Green Bay Packers | Minnesota Vikings
NFC South: Atlanta Falcons | Carolina Panthers | New Orleans Saints | Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFC West: Arizona Cardinals | Los Angeles Rams | San Francisco 49ers | Seattle Seahawks
What will Joe Brady do in his first season as head coach?
#york
3 days ago
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Three-time Pro Bowler Jamal Adams says he's joining the Minnesota Vikings on the eve of training camp.
Adams announced the move on social media Monday night, posting "Year 10" and the Vikings' "skol" hashtag.
Adams has played multiple positions during his nine-year NFL career, including 17 games at linebacker with the Las Vegas Raiders last season.
Adams was the seventh overall pick of the 2017 NFL draft by the Jets and twice was a Pro Bowler in New York. He was a first-team All-Pro safety in 2019 went to the Pro Bowl again in 2020 with Seattle before struggling with injuries.
Adams played a combined five games with Detroit and Tennessee in 2024.
#jamal #minnesota
Adams announced the move on social media Monday night, posting "Year 10" and the Vikings' "skol" hashtag.
Adams has played multiple positions during his nine-year NFL career, including 17 games at linebacker with the Las Vegas Raiders last season.
Adams was the seventh overall pick of the 2017 NFL draft by the Jets and twice was a Pro Bowler in New York. He was a first-team All-Pro safety in 2019 went to the Pro Bowl again in 2020 with Seattle before struggling with injuries.
Adams played a combined five games with Detroit and Tennessee in 2024.
#jamal #minnesota
3 days ago
As the Minnesota Vikings get ready for the start of training camp, one thing the Vikings' offensive coaching staff is likely preparing for is continuing the installation of the offense. That carries added importance this season if the Vikings have a new starting quarterback, particularly in the passing game, but the run game is also likely to get a bit of a makeover with the addition of ****** istant head coach Frank Smith, who is focusing on the run game.
Kevin O'Connell is an offshoot of the McVay branch of the Shanahan coaching tree while Frank Smith worked under Mike McDaniel in Miami, who is an offshoot of the Kyle Shanahan branch. McDaniel specialized in the run game working under Kyle Shanahan and Frank Smith will bring a lot of those concepts to Minnesota. I won't go into the Shanahan coaching tree history, which you can get it here, but there is a lot of overlap between various offshoots, even as each of them evolve too.
A core feature of the Shanahan offense is the wide zone run scheme. When you see all the offensive linemen take a drop or bucket step and then all block horizontally in the same direction, that is zone blocking. In wide zone, the running back aims for the ****** of the tight end or if there is no tight end on the play side, then the outside leg of the tackle. The back then reads the defensive end and makes his cut after 3-5 steps. If he moves inside, the back bounces the run outside, if he pursues outside, the back bends it back inside, if the hole is open, he bangs through. Below is a classic outside zone play, called on 1st and 10.
This isn't new for the Vikings or Kevin O'Connell's scheme. It's been a staple for years. In fact, it's not all that different than 'super power left' power sweeps we used to run in pee-wee football back in the 1970s
And if you watch the play, it didn't fool the Bengals defense. The defensive formation was toward the play side, countering the double tight-end set, the linebackers flow toward the run immediately, there is even a backside defensive back blitzing to try and get to Mason behind the line of scrimmage. The play was successful because it was well blocked and Mason didn't hesitate, but the play design itself didn't do much to tilt the outcome in the Vikings' favor.
#shanahan #game
Kevin O'Connell is an offshoot of the McVay branch of the Shanahan coaching tree while Frank Smith worked under Mike McDaniel in Miami, who is an offshoot of the Kyle Shanahan branch. McDaniel specialized in the run game working under Kyle Shanahan and Frank Smith will bring a lot of those concepts to Minnesota. I won't go into the Shanahan coaching tree history, which you can get it here, but there is a lot of overlap between various offshoots, even as each of them evolve too.
A core feature of the Shanahan offense is the wide zone run scheme. When you see all the offensive linemen take a drop or bucket step and then all block horizontally in the same direction, that is zone blocking. In wide zone, the running back aims for the ****** of the tight end or if there is no tight end on the play side, then the outside leg of the tackle. The back then reads the defensive end and makes his cut after 3-5 steps. If he moves inside, the back bounces the run outside, if he pursues outside, the back bends it back inside, if the hole is open, he bangs through. Below is a classic outside zone play, called on 1st and 10.
This isn't new for the Vikings or Kevin O'Connell's scheme. It's been a staple for years. In fact, it's not all that different than 'super power left' power sweeps we used to run in pee-wee football back in the 1970s
And if you watch the play, it didn't fool the Bengals defense. The defensive formation was toward the play side, countering the double tight-end set, the linebackers flow toward the run immediately, there is even a backside defensive back blitzing to try and get to Mason behind the line of scrimmage. The play was successful because it was well blocked and Mason didn't hesitate, but the play design itself didn't do much to tilt the outcome in the Vikings' favor.
#shanahan #game
7 days ago
The Minnesota Vikings' quarterback competition will dominate training camp conversation, but another important offensive battle is developing in front of whoever wins that job.
Minnesota still must settle its center position after Ryan Kelly's retirement left the offensive line without an established starter in the middle. The competition may not generate the same attention as the quarterback room, but it could have a major impact on Kevin O'Connell's offense.
According to ESPN's Kevin Seifert, Blake Brandel is expected to get the first opportunity. The longtime utility lineman gave the Vikings a surprisingly effective nine-game stretch at center in 2025, providing enough stability to enter camp as the logical favorite. His versatility has long made him valuable, but this summer gives him a chance to secure a more defined role.
The retirement of Ryan Kelly left the Vikings looking for a new starter. Long-time utility lineman Blake Brandel will get the first look, following his surprisingly effective nine-game stint there in 2025. The Vikings also want to monitor third-year backup Michael Jurgens and seventh-round pick Gavin Gerhardt. It was mildly surprising that the Vikings didn't sign a free agent at the position, and it could still happen.
That opportunity comes with pressure. Center is more than a blocking position. The starter must handle protection calls, identify fronts, help set the tone in the run game and maintain clean communication with the quarterback. That responsibility becomes even more important in an offense that asks quarterbacks to process quickly and play with timing.
#Vikings #game #kevin
Minnesota still must settle its center position after Ryan Kelly's retirement left the offensive line without an established starter in the middle. The competition may not generate the same attention as the quarterback room, but it could have a major impact on Kevin O'Connell's offense.
According to ESPN's Kevin Seifert, Blake Brandel is expected to get the first opportunity. The longtime utility lineman gave the Vikings a surprisingly effective nine-game stretch at center in 2025, providing enough stability to enter camp as the logical favorite. His versatility has long made him valuable, but this summer gives him a chance to secure a more defined role.
The retirement of Ryan Kelly left the Vikings looking for a new starter. Long-time utility lineman Blake Brandel will get the first look, following his surprisingly effective nine-game stint there in 2025. The Vikings also want to monitor third-year backup Michael Jurgens and seventh-round pick Gavin Gerhardt. It was mildly surprising that the Vikings didn't sign a free agent at the position, and it could still happen.
That opportunity comes with pressure. Center is more than a blocking position. The starter must handle protection calls, identify fronts, help set the tone in the run game and maintain clean communication with the quarterback. That responsibility becomes even more important in an offense that asks quarterbacks to process quickly and play with timing.
#Vikings #game #kevin
7 days ago
The Minnesota Vikings can talk about other training camp storylines, but the quarterback conversation is not going anywhere.
Kyler Murray enters camp as the favorite to win the starting job, giving Minnesota an experienced option with the arm talent and mobility to function in Kevin O'Connell's offense. Still, any unsettled quarterback situation commands attention, and the Vikings have one that could shape not only Week 1, but the franchise's long-term direction, according to ESPN's Kevin Seifert.
Who will start at QB in Week 1? Kyler Murray is the heavy favorite to win the job, but it's impossible to pull eyes away from any unsettled quarterback situation. In his previous seven NFL seasons, Murray has displayed the arm talent necessary to succeed in Kevin O'Connell's offense. But how long will it take him to grow accustomed to what is admittedly a complex scheme, one that requires active eyes and patient feet in the pocket? Murray admitted during OTAs that it had been a challenge to pursue the necessary familiarity while taking only half the reps. Meanwhile, J.J. McCarthy, the No. 10 pick of the 2024 draft, is fighting for his football future -- at least with the Vikings -- after only 10 NFL starts. -- Kevin Seifert
Murray's résumé makes him the logical front-runner. Across seven NFL seasons, he has shown the ability to create explosive plays, extend snaps and stress defenses with his arm and athleticism. Those traits should fit an offense built around timing, ****** ing and aggressive downfield opportunities.
The challenge is mastering the details.
#quarterback #offense #week
Kyler Murray enters camp as the favorite to win the starting job, giving Minnesota an experienced option with the arm talent and mobility to function in Kevin O'Connell's offense. Still, any unsettled quarterback situation commands attention, and the Vikings have one that could shape not only Week 1, but the franchise's long-term direction, according to ESPN's Kevin Seifert.
Who will start at QB in Week 1? Kyler Murray is the heavy favorite to win the job, but it's impossible to pull eyes away from any unsettled quarterback situation. In his previous seven NFL seasons, Murray has displayed the arm talent necessary to succeed in Kevin O'Connell's offense. But how long will it take him to grow accustomed to what is admittedly a complex scheme, one that requires active eyes and patient feet in the pocket? Murray admitted during OTAs that it had been a challenge to pursue the necessary familiarity while taking only half the reps. Meanwhile, J.J. McCarthy, the No. 10 pick of the 2024 draft, is fighting for his football future -- at least with the Vikings -- after only 10 NFL starts. -- Kevin Seifert
Murray's résumé makes him the logical front-runner. Across seven NFL seasons, he has shown the ability to create explosive plays, extend snaps and stress defenses with his arm and athleticism. Those traits should fit an offense built around timing, ****** ing and aggressive downfield opportunities.
The challenge is mastering the details.
#quarterback #offense #week
7 days ago
On the eve of the first day of training camp, the Seattle Seahawks have found their replacement at tight end for the recently waived Harrison Bryant, and it's one of their own draft picks from a decade ago.
Nick Vannett, a 2016 third-round selection out of Ohio State, has returned to the Seahawks for the first time since he was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers back in 2019. Vannett most recently played for the Los Angeles Rams, having been poached off the Minnesota Vikings practice squad. He was one of three tight ends Seattle tried out earlier this week.
The 33-year-old Vannett caught 48 passes for 463 yards and four touchdowns during his Seahawks career. He was primarily a blocking tight end who backed up Jimmy Graham at the start of his career and then was essentially the top tight end on the roster in 2018 following injuries to Ed ****** son and Will Dissly.
To make room for Vannett on the 90-man roster, the Seahawks waived cornerback Tyrone Broden with an injury designation. Broden was on the PUP list with an undisclosed injury before he was let go.
Welcome back, Nick!
#broden
Nick Vannett, a 2016 third-round selection out of Ohio State, has returned to the Seahawks for the first time since he was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers back in 2019. Vannett most recently played for the Los Angeles Rams, having been poached off the Minnesota Vikings practice squad. He was one of three tight ends Seattle tried out earlier this week.
The 33-year-old Vannett caught 48 passes for 463 yards and four touchdowns during his Seahawks career. He was primarily a blocking tight end who backed up Jimmy Graham at the start of his career and then was essentially the top tight end on the roster in 2018 following injuries to Ed ****** son and Will Dissly.
To make room for Vannett on the 90-man roster, the Seahawks waived cornerback Tyrone Broden with an injury designation. Broden was on the PUP list with an undisclosed injury before he was let go.
Welcome back, Nick!
#broden
7 days ago
Summer is here, and it is everyone's favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Vikings fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Minnesota.
Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Vikings fans can be the most informed fans.
So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.
Kentucky
Texas
#Vikings #fall #time #draft
Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Vikings fans can be the most informed fans.
So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.
Kentucky
Texas
#Vikings #fall #time #draft
7 days ago
Summer is here, and it is everyone's favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Vikings fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Minnesota.
Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Vikings fans can be the most informed fans.
So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.
Alabama
Texas
#fall
Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Vikings fans can be the most informed fans.
So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.
Alabama
Texas
#fall
7 days ago
The Seahawks have brought back a veteran player on offense.
Seattle announced on Friday that the club has signed tight end Nick Vannett.
Vannett, 33, was a Seahawks third-round pick back in 2016. He was traded to Pittsburgh midway through the 2019 season after appearing in 42 games for Seattle with 16 starts over his first four seasons.
Since ending 2019 with Pittsburgh, Vannett has spent time with the Broncos, Saints, Giants, Texans, Chargers, ***** ans, Vikings, and Rams.
He's appeared in a total of 121 games with 54 starts, tallying 108 catches for 1,012 yards with nine touchdowns.
#pittsburgh #nick
Seattle announced on Friday that the club has signed tight end Nick Vannett.
Vannett, 33, was a Seahawks third-round pick back in 2016. He was traded to Pittsburgh midway through the 2019 season after appearing in 42 games for Seattle with 16 starts over his first four seasons.
Since ending 2019 with Pittsburgh, Vannett has spent time with the Broncos, Saints, Giants, Texans, Chargers, ***** ans, Vikings, and Rams.
He's appeared in a total of 121 games with 54 starts, tallying 108 catches for 1,012 yards with nine touchdowns.
#pittsburgh #nick
8 days ago
The Seattle Seahawks brought in three tight ends for tryouts, just days after waiving (with an injury designation) Harrison Bryant. One of these names should be familiar to Seahawks fans.
Per the NFL transaction wire, Seattle met with the following players:
Josiah Deguara, best known for his time with the Green Bay Packers (2020-2023) and most recently of the Arizona Cardinals.
Nick Muse, former Minnesota Vikings seventh-round pick (2022) whose last stint was on the New York Jets practice squad. He's also the brother of former Seahawks linebacker Tanner Muse.
Nick Vannett, a 2016 Seahawks third-round draft pick who spent four seasons with Seattle and has bounced around the league. His last team was the Los Angeles Rams, home to fellow former Seahawks TE Colby Parkinson.
#seahawks #former #round #bryant
Per the NFL transaction wire, Seattle met with the following players:
Josiah Deguara, best known for his time with the Green Bay Packers (2020-2023) and most recently of the Arizona Cardinals.
Nick Muse, former Minnesota Vikings seventh-round pick (2022) whose last stint was on the New York Jets practice squad. He's also the brother of former Seahawks linebacker Tanner Muse.
Nick Vannett, a 2016 Seahawks third-round draft pick who spent four seasons with Seattle and has bounced around the league. His last team was the Los Angeles Rams, home to fellow former Seahawks TE Colby Parkinson.
#seahawks #former #round #bryant
8 days ago
Other NFL team previews: 32. Dolphins | 31. Jets | 30. Cardinals | 29. Browns | 28. **** ans | 27. Raiders | 26. Falcons | 25. Giants | 24. Saints | 23. Panthers | 22. Buccaneers | 21. Colts | 20. Steelers | 19. Vikings | 18. Commanders | 17. Bengals | 16. Jaguars | 15. Packers | 14. Chargers | 13. 49ers | 12. Chiefs | 11. Bears
When C.J. Stroud's historic rookie season was wrapping up, imagining the Houston Texans quickly becoming a Super Bowl contender wasn't a stretch.
The Texans doing it in spite of Stroud is the surprise.
Nobody foresaw the situation the Texans find themselves in going into Stroud's fourth season. Houston has built what might be the best defense in the NFL. Edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. proved to be worth every bit of what the Texans gave up when they traded up to draft him, and Houston is physical and fast at all three levels.
Ask Josh Allen. The Texans abused Allen in a way he had never been before in his career during a 23-19 win over the Bills last season. The defense is stellar. And if Stroud had maintained or improved upon his rookie season level until now, the Texans would almost certainly be the best team in football. That hasn't happened. They weren't even the best team in the AFC South last season.
#texans #season #defense #last
When C.J. Stroud's historic rookie season was wrapping up, imagining the Houston Texans quickly becoming a Super Bowl contender wasn't a stretch.
The Texans doing it in spite of Stroud is the surprise.
Nobody foresaw the situation the Texans find themselves in going into Stroud's fourth season. Houston has built what might be the best defense in the NFL. Edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. proved to be worth every bit of what the Texans gave up when they traded up to draft him, and Houston is physical and fast at all three levels.
Ask Josh Allen. The Texans abused Allen in a way he had never been before in his career during a 23-19 win over the Bills last season. The defense is stellar. And if Stroud had maintained or improved upon his rookie season level until now, the Texans would almost certainly be the best team in football. That hasn't happened. They weren't even the best team in the AFC South last season.
#texans #season #defense #last
8 days ago
One of the favorite offseason pieces of content is ranking the top players at every position and letting the discussion commence. Or arguments, or however folks like to get their points across.
Here's a take for you to ponder: Amon-Ra St. Brown as the fifth-best wide receiver in the NFL. That's where the Sun God landed in the wide receiver rankings over at Pro Football Focus, from Dalton Wasserman and Max Chadwick.
St. Brown has been as steady as they come over the past four seasons with the Lions. His 93.6 PFF receiving grade since 2022 ranks second in the NFL behind only Puka Nacua. No receiver has been better at moving the chains, as St. Brown's 285 combined receiving first downs and touchdowns over that span are 16 more than any other wide receiver. The former fourth-round pick's 33 receiving touchdowns over the past three seasons also lead the NFL.
Steady as they come. Excellent way to describe St. Brown. Since his breakout rookie season, St. Brown has been the straw that stirs the drink in the Lions' passing attack. Four straight 100-catch and 1,000-yard seasons, plus three straight seasons with double-digit touchdowns. He may not be the top guy for a lot of **** ysts, but he's not far off and is one of the very safe bets, especially if you are looking at him for your upcoming fantasy football drafts.
The only receivers ranked ahead of St. Brown on this list are Puka Nacua (Los Angeles Rams), Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seattle Seahawks), Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings) and Ja'Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals).
#brown
Here's a take for you to ponder: Amon-Ra St. Brown as the fifth-best wide receiver in the NFL. That's where the Sun God landed in the wide receiver rankings over at Pro Football Focus, from Dalton Wasserman and Max Chadwick.
St. Brown has been as steady as they come over the past four seasons with the Lions. His 93.6 PFF receiving grade since 2022 ranks second in the NFL behind only Puka Nacua. No receiver has been better at moving the chains, as St. Brown's 285 combined receiving first downs and touchdowns over that span are 16 more than any other wide receiver. The former fourth-round pick's 33 receiving touchdowns over the past three seasons also lead the NFL.
Steady as they come. Excellent way to describe St. Brown. Since his breakout rookie season, St. Brown has been the straw that stirs the drink in the Lions' passing attack. Four straight 100-catch and 1,000-yard seasons, plus three straight seasons with double-digit touchdowns. He may not be the top guy for a lot of **** ysts, but he's not far off and is one of the very safe bets, especially if you are looking at him for your upcoming fantasy football drafts.
The only receivers ranked ahead of St. Brown on this list are Puka Nacua (Los Angeles Rams), Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seattle Seahawks), Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings) and Ja'Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals).
#brown
9 days ago
Vanderbilt running back Sedrick Alexander spoke about a myriad of topics during his session on stage at SEC Media Days. Originally from Austin, Texas, Alexander revealed who his favorite NFL player was growing up, and who he models his game after.
"Well, I always grew up and wanted to be like Adrian Peterson. That's the reason why I wear 28. I've been watching Adrian Peterson ever since he was at Oklahoma. I was a young kid. But ever since he was at Oklahoma and he went to the Minnesota Vikings. I've been watching him. So I always wanted to be like AP when I was growing up," Alexander said.
Alexander didn't go into detail about rooting for a Sooners RB as an Austin kid, but the Commodores RB found pay dirt like his idol last season. Vandy's top ballcarrier scored 11 rushing touchdowns in 13 games as a junior, and caught another four scores through the air.
It'll be interesting to see if Alexander takes on an expanded role this season with the departure of Heisman Trophy runner-up Diego Pavia.
Contact/Follow College_Wire on X and College_Wires on Threads. Like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of college sports news, notes, and opinions.
#oklahoma
"Well, I always grew up and wanted to be like Adrian Peterson. That's the reason why I wear 28. I've been watching Adrian Peterson ever since he was at Oklahoma. I was a young kid. But ever since he was at Oklahoma and he went to the Minnesota Vikings. I've been watching him. So I always wanted to be like AP when I was growing up," Alexander said.
Alexander didn't go into detail about rooting for a Sooners RB as an Austin kid, but the Commodores RB found pay dirt like his idol last season. Vandy's top ballcarrier scored 11 rushing touchdowns in 13 games as a junior, and caught another four scores through the air.
It'll be interesting to see if Alexander takes on an expanded role this season with the departure of Heisman Trophy runner-up Diego Pavia.
Contact/Follow College_Wire on X and College_Wires on Threads. Like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of college sports news, notes, and opinions.
#oklahoma
9 days ago
The start of the NFL training camp is right around the corner, and the Minnesota Vikings (who start camp July 28) have one major question to answer before the regular season begins: Who will be the starting quarterback for the 2026 season?
New free-agent addition Kyler Murray and former first-round draft pick J.J. McCarthy will compete during training camp to determine the Week 1 starter.
Although Murray appears to be the favorite, Head Coach Kevin O'Connell has maintained that both quarterbacks have a legitimate chance to earn the job. McCarthy showed improvement late last season and enters his third year with the organization, factors that could strengthen his case.
Minnesota's offense struggled throughout the 2025 season. The Vikings ranked in the bottom five in total yards, yards per game, passing yards and passing yards per game. They also finished in the bottom 10 in points scored, points per game, rushing yards and rushing yards per game.
Despite those offensive struggles, Minnesota finished 9-8 and narrowly missed the playoffs.
#yards #minnesota #start
New free-agent addition Kyler Murray and former first-round draft pick J.J. McCarthy will compete during training camp to determine the Week 1 starter.
Although Murray appears to be the favorite, Head Coach Kevin O'Connell has maintained that both quarterbacks have a legitimate chance to earn the job. McCarthy showed improvement late last season and enters his third year with the organization, factors that could strengthen his case.
Minnesota's offense struggled throughout the 2025 season. The Vikings ranked in the bottom five in total yards, yards per game, passing yards and passing yards per game. They also finished in the bottom 10 in points scored, points per game, rushing yards and rushing yards per game.
Despite those offensive struggles, Minnesota finished 9-8 and narrowly missed the playoffs.
#yards #minnesota #start
9 days ago
NFL training camps open up this week, which means the fantasy football season is fast approaching. While most teams know who will be the starting QB come Week 1, others will be figuring that out in heated competitions. Yahoo ******* yst Matt Harmon poses the biggest QB questions for fantasy going into training camps.
Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL season
Of all the quarterback battles we'll discuss here, the one taking place in Minnesota is the least likely, in my view, to be a real competition. The Vikings are insistent that J.J. McCarthy will get an even shot to be the QB1 over Kyler Murray but I'm highly skeptical. My sentiment isn't unique.
Maybe Murray doesn't hit as the starter; perhaps McCarthy can improve over an all-out flop season in his first showing as a pro. At this current moment, Murray, while a flawed player, is a better option heading into Week 1. McCarthy's 4.31 adjusted net yards per pass attempt in 2025 ranked 40th out of 45 passers with 100-plus attempts. Murray ranked 37th with 4.72, by far the lowest mark of his career. Even in his worst season as a pro in a far inferior environment, Murray was objectively better than McCarthy.
Unless McCarthy is just a dramatically improved version of the player we saw last year, I expect Murray to start the vast majority, if not all, of the games in 2026. As the starter, his rushing chops alone make him a clear QB1 candidate in fantasy but he's also a strong fit in a Vikings' passing game that's extremely downfield oriented, even if he won't access the middle of the field as much as Sam Darnold did for Kevin O'Connell in 2024.
#week
Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL season
Of all the quarterback battles we'll discuss here, the one taking place in Minnesota is the least likely, in my view, to be a real competition. The Vikings are insistent that J.J. McCarthy will get an even shot to be the QB1 over Kyler Murray but I'm highly skeptical. My sentiment isn't unique.
Maybe Murray doesn't hit as the starter; perhaps McCarthy can improve over an all-out flop season in his first showing as a pro. At this current moment, Murray, while a flawed player, is a better option heading into Week 1. McCarthy's 4.31 adjusted net yards per pass attempt in 2025 ranked 40th out of 45 passers with 100-plus attempts. Murray ranked 37th with 4.72, by far the lowest mark of his career. Even in his worst season as a pro in a far inferior environment, Murray was objectively better than McCarthy.
Unless McCarthy is just a dramatically improved version of the player we saw last year, I expect Murray to start the vast majority, if not all, of the games in 2026. As the starter, his rushing chops alone make him a clear QB1 candidate in fantasy but he's also a strong fit in a Vikings' passing game that's extremely downfield oriented, even if he won't access the middle of the field as much as Sam Darnold did for Kevin O'Connell in 2024.
#week
