Latest Vikings Center News Could Be a Mistake

Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings guard Blake Brandel (64) against the Los Angeles Rams during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images.

The Minnesota Vikings made a big decision at the center position a year ago, releasing long-time starter Garrett Bradbury and looking for an upgrade in Ryan Kelly. Unfortunately, a series of concussions led Kelly to call time on his career and leave the Vikings in a bit of a pickle. Head coach Kevin O’Connell recently revealed some of the team’s thinking as we head towards the 2026 season.

The Vikings’ Center Plan Carries Real Uncertainty After a quiet free agency, it seems like the Vikings plan to use in-house promotions or the draft to find long-term successors to outgoing players. O’Connell was asked about the center position, and Blake Brandel making a permanent move to center this offseason was his response. It’s an interesting decision for a couple of reasons: firstly, it gives the impression that Michael Jurgens either isn’t fancied to make progress in Year 3 or is a name to watch when it comes to roster cutting time.

Or perhaps, even more surprisingly, is viewed as the potential stater himself. It also leads me not to expect the Vikings to sign any of the FA options on the table. Aug 27, 2021; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Blake Brandel (64) stretches before the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.