The Minnesota Vikings have certainly kept themselves occupied during this year’s free agency period so far. They have added 5 new starters, in addition to re-signing core players in Harrison Smith, Byron Murphy and Aaron Jones.
An area of focus for Vikings’ general manager, Kwesi Adofo Mensah, was the offensive line, which regressed slightly in 2024 from the top-5 unit they had been over the past couple of years.
As such, the team added longtime Indianapolis Colts center, Ryan Kelly, and his teammate; guard, Will Fries; who signed a massive 5 year, $88 million deal with Minnesota.
Bradbury Set To Be Released If No Trade Partner Can Be Found
Amidst the upgrades there was always going to be an odd man out, which it turns out is center, Garrett Bradbury, who the team are planning to release if they cannot find a trade partner, per reports.
Bradbury has been the consistent pivot for the Vikings’ offensive line for the past six years since being drafted out of NC State in 2019. With decent but unspectacular play, he was rewarded with a 3 year, $15.7 million deal in 2023 that runs through 2025.
However, after the team’s most recent additions, the NC State grad’s services seem to have been rendered surplus to requirements.
It is somewhat surprising that Minnesota did not decide to move off Bradbury earlier, given his so-so performances over the past few years. But quality centers do not grow on trees – and as such Bradbury will likely still have a market amongst NFL teams.
Unlikely enough of a market to actively trade for him, but certainly enough to get him a 1-2 year deal as a starter – perhaps more at a discounted rate.
What Will The Vikings’ Offense Look Like Post Free Agency?
Ryan Kelly was a clear upgrade on Bradbury, but given his age – the former Colts pivot will be going into his age 32 season in 2025 – the Vikings may start to look for his eventual successor; potentially as early as next month’s draft.
The second Colts o-line acquisition of Will Fries represents a bigger investment in the team’s future, due to both the money committed to him and him being nearly 5 years Kelly’s junior.
Improving the offensive line will have become a primary concern after the team realized they would not re-sign Sam Darnold, who left for the Seattle Seahawks on a 3-year, $100 million deal.
The Vikings saw first hand the struggles of fellow NFC Northman and rookie quarterback, Caleb Williams, with a makeshift offensive line in 2024, and will make sure that their young QB, JJ McCarthy, does not end up in the same predicament.
With a dynamic passing offense, an improved offensive line – the Vikings could be putting their new franchise quarterback in a very fortuitous situation.
Vikings Make Decision On 6-Year Starter After Free Agency Additions