The Minnesota Vikings are receiving praise for their bold efforts to upgrade their roster as they gear up for the 2025 NFL season, with a particular focus on bolstering their interior offensive line. Recognizing a critical weakness from last season—especially in run-blocking—head coach Kevin O’Connell and the front office made a decisive move in free agency, investing a hefty $106 million to bring in two proven veterans: center Ryan Kelly and right guard Will Fries. This significant financial commitment reflects the team’s serious intent to address one of its most pressing issues.
The changes don’t stop there. The Vikings also used their first-round draft pick to bring in standout college guard Donovan Jackson, who is expected to start at left guard. With these three major additions to the offensive line, Minnesota has effectively restructured the entire interior of its blocking unit. This signals a strategic shift in the team’s approach, one that prioritizes physicality, experience, and depth up front.
These moves are anticipated to pay dividends, especially given the team’s struggles to create running lanes last season. By reinforcing the line with both veteran leadership and young talent, the Vikings are aiming to provide more stability for their offense, which in turn could lead to improved production from both the passing and running games. With these upgrades in place, Minnesota appears determined to become a more balanced and efficient offensive unit in 2025, raising hopes for a stronger and more competitive campaign.
