Veteran Emerges as Frontrunner for Vikings Starting OL Job

Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Brian O’Neill and guard Blake Brandel work through side-by-side reps at the team’s training facility in Minneapolis, Minnesota on Jun. 10, 2025, focusing on timing, footwork, and communication during minicamp drills. The pair continues building cohesion as the offensive line sharpens execution in offseason preparation.

Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images. Have you wondered for a few weeks why the Minnesota Vikings haven’t signed a center from free agency to replace retired four-time Pro Bowler Ryan Kelly ? It seems the answer is in-house: the club likes veteran Blake Brandel for the job.

Minnesota’s clearest in-house answer at center is coming into focus. Head coach Kevin O’Connell spoke to reporters on Monday at the NFL’s league meetings, and he called out Brandel as the odds-on favorite for the starting center post in 2026, with the caveat that next month’s draft has some intriguing names. Brandel Has the Early Edge in the Center Battle The Week 1 center may not be a mystery.

Minnesota Vikings guard Blake Brandel (64) lines up during an NFC Wild Card matchup against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona on Jan. 13, 2025, setting his stance before the snap. Brandel prepares to engage at the line as Minnesota’s offense works to establish rhythm in postseason action.