This episode of Two Old Bloggers, we into the latest Minnesota Vikings news and NFL developments. Hosted by Dave Stefano, with notes from the traveling Darren Campbell, the show explores the ongoing delay in General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s contract extension, despite his 34-17 record and playoff appearances. Stefano also covers Justin Jefferson’s role as the global flag football ambassador for the 2028 Olympics, the Vikings’ joint practices with the New England Patriots, and NFL rule changes, including the “tush push” and onside kick updates. With fan interactions, a spotlight on J.J. McCarthy vs. Drake Maye, and Pro Football Focus’s 25-year best team honors, this episode is a comprehensive look at the Vikings’ offseason. Perfect for fans seeking insights on Vikings news, NFL rules, and team strategy, this podcast delivers engaging analysis and community connection.
Key Points
Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s Contract Delay:
No extension yet for the Vikings GM, despite a 34-17 record and two playoff appearances in three years.
Kevin O’Connell secured a $65 million deal in January 2021, raising questions about the delay.
Owner Mark Wilf called efforts “very positive” in March, but Stefano questions, “Can we define soon, Mark?”
Adofo-Mensah’s contract runs through the 2026 draft, but a “lame duck” year could impact his focus.
Achievements include avoiding a roster teardown and rebuild, managing the salary cap, and drafting J.J. McCarthy, though the 2022 draft (e.g., Lewis Cine, Andrew Booth Jr.) was a failure.
Fan “Brian” suggests contract language, like incentives, may be the holdup; Stefano predicts an extension in a “dead news period” before training camp.
Joint Practices with Patriots:
Vikings will hold joint practices with the New England Patriots before their August 16, 2025, preseason game.
Spotlight on rookie QBs J.J. McCarthy vs. Drake Maye, with reports that O’Connell nearly traded heavily for Maye.
Patriots, coming off a 4-13 season, signed Stefon Diggs, who may not play due to an ACL recovery.
NFL Rule Changes:
Owners voted 32-0 to allow one NFL player per team to compete in flag football at the 2028 Olympics, with Justin Jefferson eyeing a gold medal.
The “tush push” ban failed (22-10 vote), remaining legal for 2025; Stefano suggests defenses need “big round bellies” to counter it.
Onside kick rules updated: teams can declare attempts when trailing.
Kickoff rules place the ball at the 35 if kicked through the end zone to encourage returns.
Playoff reseeding proposal, submitted by Detroit for the Vikings, was withdrawn for further evaluation.
Justin Jefferson’s Olympic Ambitions:
As global flag football ambassador, Jefferson dreams of Olympic gold in 2028 at age 29.
NFL limits participation to one player per team to reduce injury risks, like a “blown ACL.”
Flag football experts warn NFL players may struggle against seasoned players, but Stefano believes their athleticism could dominate.
PFF’s 25-Year Best Team:
Antoine Winfield was the only Viking named, with a 94.5 overall grade and 94.7 run defense grade.
Vikings legends Randy Moss and Adrian Peterson were snubbed, attributed to PFF’s scoring methodology.
Winfield, a three-time Pro Bowler (2004-2012), is unlikely for the Hall of Fame but deserves Ring of Honor consideration.
Fan Engagement and Memorial Day:
Stefano interacts with fans like “Delton” (on 8.5 win odds), “Anthony” (on playoff seeding), and “Mateo” (on Winfield).
Urges fans to honor veterans and stay safe on Memorial Day, suggesting a whiskey toast for fallen heroes.
Listen:
Watch:
Don’t miss the pulse of Vikings fandom with Two Old Bloggers! This episode delivers the insider scoop on Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s contract saga, J.J. McCarthy’s rise, and Justin Jefferson’s Olympic quest, all wrapped in passionate fan-driven analysis. Whether you’re itching for NFL rule insights or craving Vikings offseason updates, Dave Stefano and Darren Campbell bring the heat. Tune in on the Fans First Sports Network, follow Vikings 1st & SKOL on X and Facebook, and join the SKOL Nation conversation. Subscribe, rate, and ring the bell to catch every episode—your Vikings journey starts here!
Fan With Us!
We have your Minnesota Vikings talk amongst the Two Old Bloggers, Darren @KickassblogVike, and Dave @Luft_Krigare. Join the conversation! Fan with us at Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and with our podcast partner Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN and Fans First Sports Network’s NFL feed @FFSN_NFL where you get sports takes for the fan, from the fan!