Access Vikings

Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah made one splash, signing ex-Packers pass rusher Za'Darius Smith, which is the biggest sign for how the team's new leadership views roster building. Because there haven't been many other moves so far. Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss this "competitive rebuild" and how the Vikings might be able to, as Adofo-Mensah says, "win in the margins."

The Vikings' new brain trust said a lot in Indianapolis, but what can be gleaned about top storylines from quarterback Kirk Cousins to defensive end Danielle Hunter? Andrew Krammer sits down with Purple Insider's Matthew Coller in a corner of the Indiana Convention Center to discuss.

What were first impressions of the new guy? What could you really glean from answers about the future of quarterback Kirk Cousins? What kind of change will come with O'Connell, and which players will that affect? What about a 3-4 defensive front under new coordinator Ed Donatell? Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss on this episode of the Access Vikings podcast.

The Vikings' coaching search ended this week after a winding path. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss how the team landed on Kevin O'Connell over Jim Harbaugh, and what that means moving forward. They also open up the mailbag and answer some of your questions.

The Vikings have a new general manager from a unique background. What did Kwesi Adofo-Mensah have to say about coming from data analysis instead of scouting? What does that mean for changes to come? Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss the leader at TCO Performance Center in Eagan and answer some of your questions.

Vikings co-owner Mark Wilf said he wouldn't box himself into a candidate for GM or head coach, and the team has since made one of the NFL's most unconventional front office hires in former Browns VP of Football Operations Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer discuss Adofo-Mensah's path to Minnesota and what that means for the head coach search.

The Vikings' internal search team, which includes the Wilf ownership group and remaining football operations staff, has eight known candidates for both general manager and head coaching jobs. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss the lists, more details from the previous leadership, the NFL playoffs and answer your questions on the latest Access Vikings podcast.

Linebacker Eric Kendricks and right tackle Brian O'Neill said a lot when talking about what the Vikings need in a leadership change, revealing more about the iron fist with which Mike Zimmer used as his leading approach. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss the Vikings' culture under Zimmer and Rick Spielman, as well as what's ahead in the searches for general manager and head coach.

An apathetic crowd at U.S. Bank Stadium met the Vikings' season finale with the same level of hype derived from Sunday's 31-17 win over the Bears. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Jim Souhan discuss Zimmer not caring about Justin Jefferson's shot at history, what comes next for the franchise, as well as what might've been Anthony Barr's last Vikings game.

Are there two coaches approaching the end of their times in Minnesota and Chicago on Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium? Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss the second consecutive losing season under coach Mike Zimmer, which can bring about change in the NFL.

The Vikings didn't run the ball enough and don't have a rookie quarterback worth evaluating in this regular season, at least according to Mike Zimmer after Sunday night's loss in Green Bay. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Chip Scoggins react to Zimmer's postgame comments, quarterback Sean Mannion's start and the direction of the franchise from Lambeau Field.

Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer embrace their inner sports talk radio by discussing the NFC playoff field, the Vikings' chances on Sunday, and safety Harrison Smith's current outlook at the Hall of Fame ahead of Sunday night's game at Lambeau Field.

Receiver Justin Jefferson said he could tell the team didn't have energy as soon as he entered the Vikings locker room before Sunday's 30-23 loss to the Rams. Linebacker Anthony Barr said the crowd wasn't in it. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Jim Souhan recap an offense that couldn't get out of the starting blocks from U.S. Bank Stadium.

Cornerback Bashaud Breeland didn't work out, and the Vikings offense enters another game in which its offensive line may be overmatched. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand use the power of hindsight to dissect general manager Rick Spielman's decisions, as well as look ahead to Sunday's Vikings-Rams game that'll challenge Minnesota's playoff hopes.

Bears rookie quarterback Justin Fields didn't look good. Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins wasn't a whole lot better in an ugly 17-9 win on Monday Night Football. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Jim Souhan discuss Cousins, Fields and the playoff chase from Soldier Field.

The Vikings' annual trip to Chicago is often full of twists and turns. In a 2021 season full of those, what should we expect for Monday night at Soldier Field? Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand talk about Vikings-Bears games through the years and this matchup between Kirk Cousins and Justin Fields.

The Vikings nearly blew a 29-0 lead to the Steelers, with some of the same issues showing up in their lack of cornerback depth or a consistent four-man pass rush. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Jim Souhan recap another wild ending from U.S. Bank Stadium.

Linebacker Anthony Barr was named the Vikings' Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee in what could be his eighth and final season with Minnesota. Ben Goessling, Michael Rand and Andrew Krammer discuss Barr's work on and off the field. They also look back at Mike Zimmer's defense in Detroit and answer your Twitter questions.

The Vikings lost to the previously winless Lions on Sunday, marking one of the worst defeats under coach Mike Zimmer. From Ford Field, Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer discuss the pivotal stretch ending in Zimmer's defense giving up the game-winning touchdown to Lions quarterback Jared Goff.

An up-and-down season turns to December, when the Vikings begin with what would be a cold trip to Detroit if they were to slip against the 0-10-1 Lions. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand preview Sunday's game and discuss Dalvin Cook's injury, Kirk Cousins-Mike Zimmer, and much more.

The Vikings lost injured running back Dalvin Cook, who fumbled when his shoulder was dislocated in the third quarter of Sunday's loss against the 49ers. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Jim Souhan discuss the turnovers, attrition and the latest around the NFC from Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif.

Everson Griffen was transported to an area hospital Wednesday afternoon via ambulance, according to Minnetrista Police, ending a day that began with a 911 call by Griffen in the middle of a mental health emergency. Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer discuss a scary situation and how it unfolded on the latest Access Vikings podcast.

The Vikings (5-5) have a suddenly pivotal matchup in the NFC playoff race on Sunday when they travel to San Francisco (5-5). Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand preview the latest trip out west and the challenges they face in the 49ers offense.

Receiver Justin Jefferson and the Vikings offense outgunned Aaron Rodgers, Davante Adams and the Packers in a 34-31 win on Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Jim Souhan discuss the latest turn in an eventful 2021 season.

The Packers defense is playing well in a "Last Dance" season for Aaron Rodgers. The Vikings just rebounded and are looking to play spoiler, if not more, in a tight NFC playoff race. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss the latest chapter in the Vikings-Packers rivalry and discuss many uncertainties around both teams.

The Vikings stepped on the gas and didn't let off as quarterback Kirk Cousins closed out a 27-20 win against the Chargers. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Jim Souhan recap the win from SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, where once again Mike Zimmer's squad keeps things interesting.

Running back Dalvin Cook's legal matter and the internal spread of COVID-19 are among the Vikings' off-field concerns as they prepare for the Chargers on Sunday. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss the Star Tribune's reporting on the lawsuit against Cook, as well as a COVID outbreak that has left one player hospitalized.

The Vikings lost another close game on Sunday, 34-31, in overtime to the Ravens, meaning they're 2-5 in one-score games. They're talented enough to be in these games, but some familiar problems remain. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Jim Souhan discuss the offensive coaching and quarterback Kirk Cousins. Also, did a depleted defense do well while causing pressure and turnovers, but allowing 500 yards? (They say yes.)

This Vikings team appears headed toward another cold winter after news of Danielle Hunter's season-ending injury came after an inexcusable loss to Cooper Rush's Cowboys. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Michael Rand discuss Mike Zimmer's challenge ahead, and uncharacteristic flaws they need to fix quickly.

The Vikings defense let Cooper Rush march down the field at the end to win the game. The Vikings offense wasn't any better after an opening touchdown drive. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Chip Scoggins recap the 20-16 loss from U.S. Bank Stadium, where Mike Zimmer had one of the worst losses of his coaching tenure in Minnesota.

National television on Halloween night sets a grand stage for the Vikings against the Cowboys. Will the bright lights and Dallas talent give us a better grasp on this 2021 defense? Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Michael Rand preview Sunday night's game, and answer your questions in the weekly mailbag.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Michael Rand take stock of the 3-3 Vikings at the bye week, including the recent loss of cornerback Patrick Peterson and quarterback Kirk Cousins' stellar play. Will Cousins keep it up? And could that alter the long-term outlook?

This Vikings team is obviously talented, so why can't they put it all together in a convincing win? Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Chip Scoggins recap a rollercoaster afternoon from Bank of America Stadium, where the Vikings needed nearly 600 yards and overtime to dispatch the Panthers.

The Vikings offense has a clear identity whether running back Dalvin Cook or Alexander Mattison starts, but there are adjustments to be made both big and small after five games. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Michael Rand discuss coordinator Klint Kubiak's play calling, the left tackle rotation with Rashod Hill and Christian Darrisaw, and more.

The Vikings narrowly escaped with a win against the winless Lions, as quarterback Kirk Cousins marched down the field in three throws to set up a game-winning field goal. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Jim Souhan discuss the confidence in the Vikings offense, or perhaps lack thereof from the coaching staff, from U.S. Bank Stadium after the game.

The Vikings host the Lions, losers of eight straight going back to last season, which is just what Mike Zimmer's squad needs to rebound from another close loss. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Michael Rand preview Sunday's game and answer your questions, including why Kirk Cousins is a baker and not a chef.

The Vikings dropped another close game in Sunday's 14-7 loss to the Browns, indicating Mike Zimmer has a problem getting this team over the hump. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and LaVelle E. Neal discuss the latest disappointment from U.S. Bank Stadium.

The NFL's reigning coach of the year returns to U.S. Bank Stadium on Sunday when the Vikings host the Cleveland Browns. Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski, and why quarterback Kirk Cousins appears to be playing as well as he did when Stefanski was calling plays for Cousins in 2019.

The Vikings finally beat the Seahawks, and quarterback Kirk Cousins was a big reason why. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Chip Scoggins recap the Vikings' 30-17 win over Seattle from U.S. Bank Stadium.

The Seahawks just blew a fourth quarter lead in a loss to the Titans. Perhaps this is finally the time the Vikings can beat Russell Wilson? Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Michael Rand preview Sunday's home opener at U.S. Bank Stadium, where Seattle arrives with the same quarterback but a vulnerable team.

The Vikings offense got better performances out of quarterback Kirk Cousins and the offensive line, but big plays against the defense and two missed kicks sunk their chances in Arizona. Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer recap the 34-33 loss from State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz.

The Vikings offensive line has a communication problem. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Michael Rand discuss starting off on the wrong foot, and this Sunday's challenge in Arizona where edge rusher Chandler Jones had five sacks and quarterback Kyler Murray had five touchdowns for the Cardinals in Week 1.

The Vikings' 27-24 overtime loss in Cincinnati gets the season off to a bad start. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Jim Souhan recap the loss, and how coach Mike Zimmer and players responded at Paul Brown Stadium in the latest Access Vikings podcast.

The Vikings made Brian O'Neill one of the richest right tackles in the NFL. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Michael Rand discuss why that was the right move, and how it reflects on an already top-heavy roster. They also preview Sunday's opener in Cincinnati on the latest Access Vikings podcast.

The loss of tight end Irv Smith Jr. to a knee injury was a tough blow to the Vikings offense. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Michael Rand discuss a team needing a confidence boost after a winless preseason and a key injury before a meaningful snap was played. We also answer your Vikings questions about the outlook for the season, the kicker, and more.

What can we take away from a Vikings offense that hasn't shown much in training camp or in limited preseason work? What should expectations be for the NFC North? Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer discuss from the Star Tribune booth at the Minnesota State Fair.

What to make of the Vikings hosting Everson Griffen for a workout? When will left tackle Christian Darrisaw be ready? Who's the backup quarterback? Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss, and take your questions, on the latest Access Vikings podcast.

Once again, the Vikings offensive line remains a work in progress as left tackle Christian Darrisaw is still sidelined by a nagging groin injury and guard Oli Udoh learns his new position. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss preseason storylines on the latest episode of the Access Vikings podcast.

Quarterback Kirk Cousins' five-day quarantine, and what exactly led up to it, is a sticking point between the expensive QB and an organization that has implored its players to get vaccinated. Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss a wild week at TCO Performance Center in Eagan.

What's got Mike Zimmer in such a good mood? Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Michael Rand discuss a largely healthy, veteran-laden Vikings defense that may have lightened the mood of the eighth-year head coach. We also discuss Rick Dennison's relegation to virtual advisor, camp storylines, and answer your Twitter questions.