Recent content from Andrew Krammer

Film review: Did the Vikings 'find value' in their new defensive linemen?
The Vikings paid a lot in free agency for Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, two former Pro Bowl defensive tackles at the tail ends of their careers and coming off season-altering injuries. But when healthy, they have been among the most disruptive interior pass rushers in the NFL.

Podcast: Vikings and Aaron Rodgers drama; meeting the free agents; answering listener questions
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss Rodgers, backup QBs, new coaches and players, and open the mailbag.

Linebacker Lindenberg uses Gophers pro day to show he's healthy after surgery
Minnesota defensive backs Jack Henderson and Ethan Robinson posted strong numbers while NFL personnel watched.

Vikings agree to terms with receiver Rondale Moore
The Vikings are familiar with Moore from his time with Arizona. He adds a dynamic catch-and-run threat to their receiving corps if he's healthy.

Film review: Vikings getting 'competitive edge' with Fries, Kelly
Right guard Will Fries and center Ryan Kelly, new additions to the Vikings offensive line, started 28 games together over three seasons with the Colts. Here's a look at what the Vikings are getting in both blockers.

Vikings release Bradbury in latest offensive line shuffle
Center Garrett Bradbury's departure was expected after the Vikings signed center Ryan Kelly last week and then tried to trade Bradbury, their 2019 first-round pick and longtime starter.

Vikings host cornerback Okudah on a free-agent visit
Jeff Okudah, the No. 3 pick in the 2020 draft by the Lions, is looking for his fourth team in as many years while the Vikings are looking for depth in the secondary.

Vikings host WR Rondale Moore for free-agent visit, sign LB Eric Wilson
The Vikings are familiar with Moore's big-play ability going back to a 2021 loss to Arizona. They're also familiar with Wilson, who played in Minnesota from 2017-2020.
Vikings add DT Hargrave as free-agent signing period begins
Defensive Javon Hargrave, released by the 49ers on Wednesday as expected, was scooped up by the Vikings a day after they signed another top interior pass rusher, Jonathan Allen.
Vikings strike three-year, $51 million deal with Pro Bowl defensive tackle
Former Commanders starter Jonathan Allen agreed to terms Tuesday during a free-agent visit to the team's Eagan headquarters, and another DT, the 49ers' Javon Hargrave, is reportedly nearing an agreement.

Vikings to re-sign running back Jones on a two-year deal
Aaron Jones, 30, agreed to a new deal with the Vikings on the eve of NFL free agency negotiations picking up steam Monday.

The Vikings looking to beef up offensive line in free agency
The Vikings need better pass protectors and run blockers upfront and could find two new starting guards in decent free-agent class.

Which QBs are available to the Vikings in free agency?
The Vikings may be shopping for a veteran QB after deciding not to use the franchise tag on Sam Darnold. While talks continue with him, here are the top passers hitting the free agent market next week.

Gophers cornerback Walley shows off top-10 speed at NFL combine; Brosmer, Jackson sit out testing
DeLaSalle's Jalen Travis also has the NFL's attention after a strong season at Iowa State.

Running back in the first round? Vikings study a 'really good class' for draft
This year's RBs are heralded as one of the best groups in recent memory, and that position may have regained NFL importance.

Analysis: Why this year's lackluster QB pickings could lead to Darnold's departure from the Vikings
NFL teams soon will be shopping for quarterbacks in a relatively barren free-agent market.

Podcast: Vikings takeaways and what we learned at the NFL scouting combine
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss how Sam Darnold's market will dictate whether he stays or goes for 2025.

Gophers' Lindenberg, recovering from hernia surgery, won't run at NFL scouting combine
The linebacker, one of six from the U participating, still hopes to impress evaluators during interviews this week.

Vikings add offensive line assistant coach Carter; Falcons plan to keep Cousins
Keith Carter, 42, was not loved by all of his players in his most recent stops with the Jets and Titans.

NFL combine: Who to watch, how to watch, when to watch
This week in Indianapolis, NFL teams will put 329 invited players through a long list of evaluations, including medical testing, group interviews, on-field drills, strength testing and measurements.

Podcast: Will the Vikings play tag (and trade) with quarterback Sam Darnold?
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Andrew Krammer is joined by Purple Insider's Matthew Coller to discuss Darnold and a March 4 deadline.
Vikings' O'Connell: Darnold has 'earned the right to explore what it means to be a Pro Bowl quarterback'
After being named NFL Coach of the Year on Thursday night, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell continued to praise quarterback Sam Darnold while alluding to the possibility that he's headed elsewhere in free agency.

Podcast: How the Vikings' busy night at NFL Honors unfolded
From New Orleans, the Minnesota Star Tribune's Mark Craig discusses Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell winning AP NFL Coach of the Year, Jared Allen's Hall of Fame selection and how the voting shook out.

Podcast: From Sam Darnold to Cooper Kupp, the Vikings offseason can quickly gain intrigue
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open a mixed bag of topics ranging from the Super Bowl to Vikings quarterbacks and trade targets.

The Vikings were the NFL's oldest team in 2024. A youth movement won't be easy.
The Chiefs and Eagles reached the Super Bowl with teams that are a lot younger, and probably speedier.

Defensive coordinator Brian Flores seems likely to stay with Vikings
Vikings assistants Daronte Jones and Grant Udinski are getting interviews with NFL teams.
Vikings tackle O'Neill added to Pro Bowl roster
Brian O'Neill will be the seventh Vikings player at the Pro Bowl Games this weekend in Orlando.

After a knee injury wiped out Year 2, Vikings' Blackmon is healthy and eager for Year 3
A 2023 third-round pick who showed promise as a rookie, the cornerback said he'll continue his rehab in Minnesota this winter ahead of a third season that could provide him ample opportunity.

Podcast: Kevin O'Connell gets a new deal from the Vikings. Is GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah next?
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss O'Connell's contract extension, Adofo-Mensah's deal, the NFC North's 0-3 record in the playoffs and more.

Do the Vikings want Darnold back? Adofo-Mensah, O'Connell don't say no
Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah told reporters Thursday that Sam Darnold is among the "good options" the Vikings have at quarterback while adding that J.J. McCarthy has returned to on-field training.

Podcast: Vikings' Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, Kevin O'Connell say they're keeping 'good options' open at QB
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' outlook at quarterback and recent comments by team brass.

Contract status of coach Kevin O'Connell, GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah among the Vikings' offseason questions
O'Connell and Adofo-Mensah, who are under contract through the 2025 season, expressed Thursday how much they appreciate being with the Vikings.
Vikings' secondary 'never going to be exactly the same' with free agency, possible retirements ahead
Only safety Josh Metellus is currently signed for next season among the Vikings' six veteran defensive backs who played big roles in 2024. "I was just grateful for the honor to be able to play football with these guys," Metellus said.

Vikings will pick 24th in NFL draft, but won't pick much after that
The Vikings currently have only three 2025 draft picks after trading several away, though they are expected to get a compensatory third-round pick because Kirk Cousins left in free agency.

Vikings first-round pick Turner grateful after rookie season despite 'some adversity'
Vikings edge rusher Dallas Turner played the fewest defensive snaps among 2024 first-round picks, but he emerged from his rookie season with avid supporters, a to-do list and gratitude.
Vikings safety Smith to consider retirement again after 'some of the most fun I've had'
Last offseason he pondered his future and decided to return. Now he's more than 12,000 snaps into his career, and there's one more difference: "I'm older."

Podcast: Vikings' 14-win season ends with another dud from quarterback Sam Darnold
In this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Jim Souhan discuss Darnold's meltdown and what that could mean for their outlook together this offseason.

Vikings defense continues to struggle with Rams version of Stafford
The Vikings fell to 0-3 against Matthew Stafford since he went from Detroit to Los Angeles. Minnesota was 13-8 against Stafford when he was the Lions quarterback.

Vikings-Rams inactives: Daniel Jones active for the first time in emergency No. 3 QB role
Former Giants quarterback Daniel Jones will suit up for the Vikings for the first time since signing with Minnesota in late November, but Nick Mullens will remain Sam Darnold's backup.

'A mission for him': How Khyree Jackson left an indelible mark on the Vikings' season
Rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson died in a car accident on July 6, less than three months after being drafted by the Vikings. But the memory of his joyous spirit has been at the forefront of their season.

Vikings make Hockenson their Courage Award recipient
The tight end returned this season after a nine-month rehab from two torn ligaments in his right knee. "It's an honor," he said Friday.

Vikings playoff game vs. Rams moved to Arizona because of wildfires in Los Angeles
The Vikings' NFL playoff game Monday night against the Rams has been relocated to Glendale, Ariz., because of multiple wildfires that are burning out of control in the Los Angeles area.

Vikings see parallels, draw inspiration from Rams' Super Bowl run in 2021
A crushing loss to a prominent rival ended the regular season in each case. Los Angeles regrouped successfully, and some of those involved, including coach Kevin O'Connell, are now with the Vikings.

Vikings' quarterback plans grow vague with Jones added to roster
Is he the backup to Sam Darnold? Or is it Nick Mullens? Coach Kevin O'Connell called the situation "fluid."

Podcast: Both the Vikings and Sam Darnold could use a playoff win right about now
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand preview Monday night's playoff game between the Vikings and the Rams.

Film review: Why Vikings QB Sam Darnold left Detroit without a touchdown pass
There were many reasons the Vikings came away with two field goals and two turnovers on downs in their four trips inside the red zone in a loss to the Lions on Sunday night.

Darnold, Vikings got 'more than they could handle' from Lions' blitz
No quarterback faced an all-out blitz as often this season as Sam Darnold did Sunday in the Vikings' 31-9 loss to Detroit, NFL statistics show.

Podcast: Vikings, Sam Darnold lay an egg in biggest game of regular season at Detroit
From Ford Field, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Jim Souhan discuss QB Sam Darnold's no-show, a lackluster offense and the playoff road ahead in this episode of the Access Vikings podcast.

Vikings tight end Hockenson booed early, then silenced in return to Detroit
Quarterback Sam Darnold did former Lions player T.J. Hockenson few favors with inaccurate and sometimes ill-timed passes during the Vikings' 31-9 loss.

Darnold, Van Ginkel, four other Vikings voted onto Pro Bowl roster
Quarterback Sam Darnold, receiver Justin Jefferson, outside linebackers Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel, cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. and long snapper Andrew DePaola were selected for the Feb. 2 flag football game on Feb. 2 in Orlando.

A different Darnold? Vikings' rematch with Lions has QB playing at top of his game
Sam Darnold has been a top-five quarterback in passing yardage and touchdowns this season, and coaches say his command of the Vikings offense has grown entering Sunday's rematch with the Lions.

Nearing career-high production, Jones hopes to 'finish my career' with the Vikings
Aaron Jones, the 30-year-old featured running back, signed a one-year deal with the Vikings after seven seasons with the rival Green Bay Packers and has shown he still has speed, elusiveness and durability.

Podcast: How the Vikings match up with the Lions in winner-take-all regular season finale
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday night's game at Ford Field, where the Vikings haven't won since the 2020 season.

Film review: Vikings run defense looks ready for Detroit
The Lions have masked an injury-plagued defense with a hyperactive offense that goes through running back Jahmyr Gibbs, the next challenge for the Vikings' No. 2-ranked run defense.

Vikings running back Aaron Jones expected to play against Lions
Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said running back Aaron Jones was not likely to miss game or practice time due to the quad injury that kept him out of the fourth quarter of Sunday's win over the Packers. The team also got "positive news" about Pat Jones II's knee injury.

Podcast: Vikings dismantle Packers, can take No. 1 seed and home-field advantage next week in Detroit
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the 27-25 win over the Packers from building a large lead to Green Bay's fourth-quarter rally.

Shapeshifting defense 'kept Green Bay guessing' through three quarters
Vikings defenders "started to basically flip what we were doing in the first half" against Jordan Love, and it worked until the Packers' fourth-quarter rally.

'We hate them, they hate us.' This chapter of Vikings-Packers carries more weight
Tensions are rising between ahead of the 129th chapter in this storied rivalry, which brings some of the biggest stakes possible for a regular-season game.

Three Vikings defenders approaching return while Packers practice without three starters on Thursday
Harrison Smith, Ivan Pace Jr. and Jalen Redmond were full participants in Thursday's practice, which is good news for Brian Flores.

Podcast: This Vikings-Packers game may be the most significant in recent memory
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer preview a Vikings-Packers game that may have the highest stakes since they last met in the playoffs.

Flores: Vikings rookie Dallas Turner can 'get to wherever he wants to'
Vikings edge rusher Dallas Turner didn't have a big role in Sunday's win in Seattle, but defensive coordinator Brian Flores said the rookie took a step in the right direction.

Vikings' Van Ginkel named NFC defensive player of the week
Vikings edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel had two sacks against the Seahawks, becoming the third Minnesota player this season to receive player of the week honors.

Harrison Smith, Ivan Pace could return against Packers
The Vikings' injured defensive players missed Sunday's game in Seattle, but might be ready for Green Bay.

Three keys to the Vikings' 27-24 win over the Seahawks
Justin Jefferson had his best game of the season, with 144 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner late in the fourth quarter in Seattle.

Safety Smith, fullback Ham questionable for Vikings game in Seattle
Harrison Smith has a foot injury sustained Monday night, coach Kevin O'Connell said. Meanwhile, quarterback Geno Smith is set to start for the Seahawks.

Vikings' Reichard regains trust in kicking leg just in time for home stretch, playoffs
Rookie Will Reichard has an injury history that goes back to college, so the team took steps to make him comfortable with the process.

Podcast: Vikings' degree of difficulty starts to increase Sunday in Seattle
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer preview Sunday's game in Seattle and discuss Sam Darnold's improvement through a 12-2 season.

Vikings players say O'Connell should be NFL Coach of the Year
Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell became the betting favorite for the NFL Coach of the Year Award after Monday's win over the Bears. His players explain why he deserves it.

Vikings don't expect RT O'Neill to miss Seattle game; CB Gilmore 'potentially' available
The Vikings do not think right tackle Brian O'Neill will miss any additional time with a knee injury sustained Monday night against the Bears while cornerback Stephon Gilmore is ramping up his practice time and could play Sunday against the Seahawks.

Vikings receivers past and present show love to Moss during game
Cris Carter and former teammate Jake Reed hoisted a Moss jersey at the pregame coin toss, and Justin Jefferson had a message for Randy Moss after an early touchdown.

Podcast: Vikings take care of business against Bears, set sights on NFC North crown
On this episode of the Access Vikings podcast, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Jim Souhan recap the Vikings' 30-12 win over Chicago and discuss their playoff outlook.

Vikings inactives: Gilmore to miss second game because of hamstring strain
Vikings cornerback Stephon Gilmore was listed as questionable against the Bears, but didn't appear close to returning Monday night, having practiced only once since a Dec. 1 hamstring strain.

Vikings' Jefferson battles former LSU teammate for NFL receiving lead
Vikings star Justin Jefferson would like his second NFL receiving crown. But he'll have to catch his former LSU teammate Ja'Marr Chase of the Bengals to do it.

Vikings cornerback Stephon Gilmore remains sidelined Thursday; edge rusher Pat Jones II returns
Gilmore has not practiced since exiting the Dec. 1 win over the Cardinals with a hamstring strain.
Vikings' Brian O'Neill follows own standard, even if Pro Football Focus says he's having his best season
O'Neill, the team captain and stalwart right tackle, has been a steadying force during a year of offensive line change for the Vikings.