Access Vikings

Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker discuss Vikings general manager Nolan Teasley's introductory news conference, which featured comments from Teasley and Vikings co-owner Mark Wilf. They discuss the new Vikings leader's philosophies, background and relationship with head coach Kevin O'Connell. Plus, who reports to who with internal Vikings GM candidate Rob Brzezinski remaining on staff?

Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker discuss what they saw during their first day at Vikings OTAs, and what they heard after from quarterbacks J.J. McCarthy and Kyler Murray. How did McCarthy describe his relationship with Murray, and vice versa? How does he view the competition? Plus, who was absent from OTAs and the Vikings five GM finalists.

Emily Leiker is joined by Minnesota Star Tribune Daily Delivery host Mike Rand to discuss news from the NFL's spring meeting in Orlando, including that owners approved the 2028 NFL draft being held in Minnesota. Plus, the Vikings GM search is moving into its second phase after the conclusion of what co-owner Mark Wilf called "exploratory interviews."

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker come to you from TCO Performance Center in Eagan, where the Vikings held a shortened, one-day rookie minicamp that did not feature top pick Caleb Banks. The team does expect receiver Jauan Jennings in town by next week, when veterans will hit the field for the first time. What are the Vikings getting in Jennings? How is the move emblematic of their shift this offseason?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' GM search that began in earnest after the NFL Draft: What are they looking for in a candidate? How much of a candidate is interim GM Rob Brzezinski? They also discuss the recent free-agent visit with WR Jauan Jennings and the reported likelihood that the 2028 NFL Draft is headed to Minneapolis.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap Day 3 of the Vikings' 2026 draft that saw them make four picks, including the only expected skill position player in sixth-round running back Demond Claiborne. What did they learn about the new Vikings, including J.J. McCarthy's former Michigan teammate: FB Max Bredeson? What does the collective age of their rookies say about their approach and college football? And how soon can these defensive picks make a difference?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap Day 2 of the NFL Draft, leading off with the Vikings finalizing a long-rumored trade that sent Jonathan Greenard to the Eagles. Why did the Vikings trade away one of their best defenders? What does this mean for Dallas Turner? And what do we know about the four draft picks they made in Rounds 2-3?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker react to the Vikings' first-round selection of Florida DT Caleb Banks from the team's headquarters in Eagan. What were their reactions? What did Kevin O'Connell and Rob Brzezinski have to say about the pick? And what did they learn about the newest Viking?

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap what they heard on Day 1 of the Vikings' offseason program from wide receiver Justin Jefferson, head coach Kevin O'Connell and interim general manager Rob Brzezinski. How did Jefferson react to Kyler Murray's signing? What has his offseason training with J.J. McCarthy looked like? Plus, Jonathan Greenard not present for offseason program opening, and Ivan Pace Jr. re-signs.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about the upcoming NFL Draft. Trading up for top running back Jeremiyah Love? What position could see multiple draft picks? What about a first-round pass catcher like Oregon TE Kenyon Sadiq? They also discuss the general manager job and the Vikings' search following the draft.

Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker kick off NFL draft month by discussing some options the Vikings could explore at each of their four currently slated Top 100 pick positions. Why is Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman a near-unanimous mock draft at No. 18? Would the Vikings consider Notre Dame's Jadarian Price in Round 2? Where does the need for a long-term center come in to the equation?

Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker discuss Emily's time at the NFL Annual Meeting at the Arizona Biltmore, where Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell, co-owner Mark Wilf and interim general manager Rob Brzezinski all spoke with media. How do the Vikings feel about their quarterback room after the Murray acquisition? Where are they at in their search for a GM? Plus, answers to a few listener questions.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss various Vikings-related topics, including the team's involvement in pushing to host an upcoming NFL Draft, free-agent signings from QB Carson Wentz to P Johnny Hekker, and last week's retirement event for Adam Thielen and C.J. Ham.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker welcome Cardinals reporter Josh Weinfuss from ESPN to discuss new Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray's seven seasons in Arizona. What is fair or not fair about the book on Murray to this point? What exactly are the Vikings getting as a quarterback? As a leader? As a worker? What will be among the more fascinating parts of this experiment?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker return from a video call with new Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray and coach Kevin O'Connell to discuss Murray joining Minnesota. What does this mean for the Vikings offense? What about the stated competition with J.J. McCarthy? Murray has already met Justin Jefferson at Pro Bowls and thrown for 20,000 yards and over 120 touchdown passes in the league, setting up a steep climb for McCarthy, who had the NFL's worst interception rate and third-worst sack rate in 10 starts.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the coming and goings on the Vikings roster during the start of NFL free agency. They first discuss running back Aaron Jones' return amid a lackluster RB market. Tight end T.J. Hockenson agreed to a more than $5 million pay cut to stay. Linebacker Eric Wilson's return makes sense. Safety Harrison Smith is released but may still return. The early outside addition is ex-Steelers corner James Pierre; what does he bring? Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave is joining the Packers. The Vikings need a punter. Oh, yeah, they need a new quarterback, too, while edge rusher Jonathan Greenard wants a new contract.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions ahead of NFL free agency. How did the team's former GM earn an "A" grade in the NFLPA's latest team report cards? What are the QB plans? Would they part ways with J.J. McCarthy? Could they make a run at the top center on the market? What about replacing Harrison Smith?

Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker join Andrew Krammer from Indianapolis, where the annual NFL Scouting Combine features not just Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, but also members of the Vikings' ownership group. What did interim GM Rob Brzezinski and head coach Kevin O'Connell say about J.J. McCarthy and the ongoing search for QB help? What about the GM search? They also discuss the team's 2026 coaching staff, Rondale Moore's tragic death, and how Brzezinski will approach this NFL Draft.

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss a few Vikings' tidbits, including coaching moves, Brian Flores' lawsuit vs. the NFL, and Kevin O'Connell's addition to the competition committee. Then CBS Sports college football analyst Richard Johnson joins to preview next week's NFL Scouting Combine.

Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker discuss Sam Darnold and the Seahawks' 29-13 win over the Patriots in Super Bowl LX, including how the narrative around Darnold shifted in the lead up to and aftermath of the game. Then, they open the mailbag to answer listener questions about the Vikings' GM search, competition for J.J. McCarthy and some up-and-coming players the team could look to for bigger roles in 2026.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss a handful of Vikings topics, including a hire in the front office, another coaching loss, Justin Jefferson's observational talent, and fullback C.J. Ham's retirement. They also talk about Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold. You might have heard he's got a game on Sunday.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' recent coaching additions for the 2026 season and chat with Seahawks quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko, who coached with the Vikings for seven years (2015-2021), about his experience this year with Sam Darnold, fellow former Vikings assistant Klint Kubiak, and the Super Bowl-bound Seahawks.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss co-owner Mark Wilf's comments upon firing general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah nearly four weeks after their 2025 season ended. Wilf cited Adofo-Mensah's body of work that included a poor draft record and last year's quarterback room, as well as this "critical" offseason that includes eight draft picks (plus any compensatory selections). Will this clear a path for Kevin O'Connell and Brian Flores to have even more influence in personnel decisions?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings likely losing a key coach on defense, assistant Daronte Jones, to a promotion with the Washington Commanders. They also discuss coordinator Brian Flores staying in Minnesota, the Sam Darnold-Drake Maye matchup in the Super Bowl, and one expected need along the offensive line.

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss receiver Jordan Addison being cleared of charges in a recent arrest. They also open the mailbag to answer your Vikings questions about roster needs, cornerback Byron Murphy Jr., potential cuts, and more. And will Vikings fans be subjected to a Super Bowl between Sam Darnold and Drake Maye?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker are joined by MatchQuarter's Cody Alexander (a former cornerback and graduate assistant coach at Baylor) to discuss Vikings coordinator Brian Flores' unique and effective approach, his head coaching prospects, and the Vikings' defensive roster. They also look ahead to this weekend's NFC Divisional playoff games.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss receiver Jordan Addison's arrest this week in Florida. They also recap what reporters heard from general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and coach Kevin O'Connell at Tuesday's season-ending press conferences. They discussed "insurance" and "competition" at quarterback for young J.J. McCarthy as well as the future of defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss takeaways from Vikings' locker room cleanout, defensive coordinator Brian Flores getting at least one head coach interview, and the two teams still playing in the NFC North.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 16-3 win over the Green Bay Packers to end the regular season. The game was really about celebrating the franchise's two longest-tenured players, safety Harrison Smith and fullback C.J. Ham, in what could be their final moments with the team. They discuss what happened inside U.S. Bank Stadium before, during and after the game, including quarterback J.J. McCarthy exiting early with an aggravation of his hand injury.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss quarterback J.J. McCarthy's return for his final start of a roller coaster 2025 season. They also open the mailbag and answer your questions about the future of the offensive line and quarterback positions. This week's Flashback Friday segment goes back to a ridiculous 2016 game in Chicago that included familiar refrains about struggling offenses and strong defenses.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday's regular season finale between the Vikings (8-8) and Packers (9-6-1). Quarterback J.J. McCarthy appears on track to play again. What can he gain from his 10th NFL start? What else is there to play for in this game? They discuss the financial incentives and other reasons that could motivate players and coaches in this game.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker emerge from the postgame locker room at U.S. Bank Stadium to break down the Vikings' 23-10 win over the Detroit Lions. They discuss safety Harrison Smith's emotion in what could be his penultimate game, the defense's dominance over the Lions this season, running back Aaron Jones gutting through injury, and they put into context just how poorly they threw the ball in a victory.

A panel of Minnesota Star Tribune sportswriters -- Ben Goessling, Mark Craig and Andrew Krammer -- selected their All-Quarter Century Team for the Vikings from the past 25 years (2001-2025). They came up with three different quarterbacks and head coaches among other variations. What are the merits from Daunte Culpepper to Brett Favre to Kirk Cousins? Or Danielle Hunter vs. Everson Griffen?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the news that quarterback J.J. McCarthy suffered a hairline fracture in his throwing hand in New York, meaning rookie Max Brosmer gets another start on Christmas Day against the Detroit Lions. They also debut the listener voicemail that will allow you another avenue to leave us questions.

Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 16-13 win over the New York Giants from MetLife Stadium.

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss left tackle Christian Darrisaw's move to injured reserve and his trying season. They also open the mailbag and answer your questions about guards Donovan Jackson and Will Fires, Jonathan Greenard's absence, and more. Ben Goessling joins for Flashback Friday on the 'Mutiny on the Fox River,' or that time in 2016 at Green Bay where defenders didn't listen to Mike Zimmer.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker regroup to recap the Vikings' 34-26 win over the Dallas Cowboys and preview the upcoming game against the listless New York Giants (2-12). What stood out about J.J. McCarthy's second straight positive start? Why may it continue in New York? What's the latest with injuries to Jonathan Greenard and Josh Metellus? They also bounce around topics like the treacherous MetLife Stadium turf, quarterback sliding, and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about defensive coordinator Brian Flores, veteran quarterbacks in 2026, and more. This week's Flashback Friday segment goes back to a 2018 game against the Rams. The game helped usher in the reign of a young L.A. coach that would ultimately mentor Kevin O'Connell.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday night's game between the Vikings (5-8) and Cowboys (6-6-1) by discussing the "pure progression" QB reads that have Kurt Warner at odds with the way the Vikings are coaching J.J. McCarthy. They then get into the matchups with Dallas on both sides of the ball and end with Joe Flacco having 32 "bat phones" for each NFL team.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker break out their flashback Friday segment into an episode because it's about 2017's Minneapolis Miracle. Emily asks Ben and Andrew what they recall about covering that game, the dynamic between receivers Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen, the plays that have since been forgotten, and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 31-0 rout of the Washington Commanders from U.S. Bank Stadium, where quarterback J.J. McCarthy got his first home win with his most complete performance to date. What went into McCarthy's improvement? How did the defense limit another opposing quarterback? And what importance do the final four games have for the 2026 offseason?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss who's in and who's out for Sunday's Vikings-Commanders game, headlined by the return of 2024's No. 2 overall pick Jayden Daniels. That means it's Daniels vs. a struggling J.J. McCarthy, who may have his full O-line back together again. Then they open the mailbag and answer your questions about offensive linemen, quarterbacks and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday's Vikings-Commanders game. First they discuss receiver Adam Thielen asking for his release and joining Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh. Then they get into what the coaching staff is doing to get more out of J.J. McCarthy for now.

Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker talk through the Vikings' 26-0 loss against the Seahawks at Lumen Field. They unpack Max Brosmer's first start, Justin Jefferson's low production -- and decision not to talk postgame -- and where the Vikings defense held up.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' quarterback situation and open the mailbag to answer your questions that include: Should J.J. McCarthy keep playing this year? How can Max Brosmer's play on Sunday affect the rest of the season? What approach should the team take in the 2026 offseason?

Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer preview Sunday's game in Seattle, where the reeling Vikings may be starting undrafted rookie quarterback Max Brosmer for the first time. Oh yeah, old friend Sam Darnold will be on the other sideline. What to expect from Darnold? Brosmer? Where does this leave J.J. McCarthy's development? Who will be available along the offensive line?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker come to you from the mezzanine level of Lambeau Field, where you will hear the trash getting taken out during this episode. On the field, coach Kevin O'Connell, quarterback J.J. McCarthy and an otherwise veteran team seem to have run out of answers for 2025. The defense has only been able to do so much under these conditions, while special teams remains erratic.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the final ins and outs before Sunday's game at Lambeau Field. They also open the mailbag and answer your Vikings-related questions about quarterback J.J. McCarthy's development, receiver Justin Jefferson's patience, the offensive line, and more. This week's flashback Friday includes a look back at the start of the 2020 season.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview the Vikings' annual trip to Lambeau Field on Sunday. They discuss quarterback J.J. McCarthy's development with seven games left on the schedule, how the kick coverage mishap is emblematic of a larger issue, the lack of takeaways by a talented defense, and what kind of team they're facing in the Packers.

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 19-17 loss to the Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium, where fans became restless with quarterback J.J. McCarthy's growing pains. What did coach Kevin O'Connell say afterward? They also discuss another strong defensive showing, safety Harrison Smith's 200th regular season game, and the highs and lows of special teams.

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your questions about how players choose their helmets, center Ryan Kelly's return, edge rusher Dallas Turner's costly lesson about sacking quarterbacks, the false start problem, a rookie we haven't heard from in a while, and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday's game between the Vikings (4-5) and Bears (6-3), who have won six of their last seven games. Will the offense find cohesion with J.J. McCarthy at U.S. Bank Stadium? How do they match up against the Bears defense? When will center Ryan Kelly return? The Vikings defense appears to have found a groove after a rough five-day stretch in October. Are they going to get the upper hand again on Caleb Williams?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 27-19 loss to the Ravens on Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium, where an inconsistent offense was often penalized and turnover prone. What issues continued for quarterback J.J. McCarthy? How did an impressive defensive performance eventually fall apart? What did players and coach Kevin O'Connell have to say about some of the key moments?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss quarterback J.J. McCarthy's alter ego and the final injury statuses ahead of Vikings-Ravens on Sunday. They then open the mailbag and answer your questions about the red zone success, free agent cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., the trade deadline, arm wrestling contests, and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday's Vikings-Ravens game through the lens of defending quarterback Lamar Jackson and quarterback J.J. McCarthy's ongoing development. They discuss the Vikings' struggles against mobile quarterbacks, outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel's return, and more.

Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer recap the Vikings' 27-24 win over the Lions from Ford Field, where quarterback J.J. McCarthy navigated another road win in the NFC North, the defense got back to its winning ways, kick returner Myles Price made a difference, and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss who's in, who's out, and what's still not known ahead of Sunday in Detroit. They then open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about the quarterbacks, tight end T.J. Hockenson, safety Harrison Smith, and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss quarterback Carson Wentz playing through a torn labrum in his left shoulder, quarterback J.J. McCarthy returning to the starting lineup, and they break the news that Sunday is a tough, tough assignment in Detroit.

Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' 37-10 loss to the Chargers at SoFi Stadium on Thursday Night Football, including Carson Wentz struggling as he played through pain and what's ahead for the Vikings at quarterback. They also discuss who returned to action, who left the game early and the Chargers tearing up the Vikings defense.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Thursday night's game against the Chargers, leading with the decision to start Carson Wentz as J.J. McCarthy's recovery continues. They also discuss the potential return of a team captain, Aaron Jones, and how the Vikings offense and defense match up against the 4-3 Chargers. Did the Vikings just struggle against a big, mobile passer with a strong arm? Oh...

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 28-22 loss to the Eagles from U.S. Bank Stadium, where the defense let Jalen Hurts run around and find open receivers downfield. What to make of quarterback Carson Wentz's roller coaster performance? What about the uncharacteristic explosive passes allowed? How did a rookie get picked to lay in front of the Eagles' Tush Push attempt?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss quarterback Carson Wentz's fourth straight start on Sunday against his former team. They also open the mailbag and answer your questions about quarterback J.J. McCarthy's practice time, which returning players will make the biggest impacts, and advice on traveling to Minnesota for a game.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss quarterback J.J. McCarthy's return to practice, his ongoing recovery from a high ankle sprain, his development and what it all means for Sunday's game against the Eagles. Will Carson Wentz face his former team? They also discuss two key defenders returning to practice this week and another, Dallas Turner, quietly playing well.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss which players are expected to return after the bye week. Then they open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about measuring success this season, the run defense, linebacker Ivan Pace's year so far, Blake Brandel's play at center, receiver Jordan Addison's future, and more. They also form a list of recently memorable Vikings games that Emily must watch.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' 21-17 win over the Browns in London, which was capped by a 12-yard touchdown caught by Jordan Addison. They also discuss Cam Akers' single snap at quarterback, Quinshon Judkins' 100-yard game against the Vikings defense and what looks to have happened on Will Reichard's missed field goal.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the latest updates on a number of Vikings injuries, including a handful across the O-line that required the Vikings to fly out added practice support to London. Plus, they chat about key personnel for the Browns, who named rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel their starter for Week 5.

Ben Goessling joins from Dublin as the Access Vikings crew, including Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker, break down Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Why did a play clock have a key role at the end of the loss? They also discuss the unrelenting O-line injuries, quarterback Carson Wentz's performance, the defense's inability to force Aaron Rodgers into a mistake, and more.

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss Vikings injuries entering Week 4, in which the Vikings head overseas to play the Steelers in Dublin, Ireland, and wide receiver Jordan Addison's return to practice after serving his 3-game suspension stemming from a drunken driving arrest in July 2024. Plus, they continue the discussion of the Vikings' quarterback situation as Carson Wentz is set to make his second start with J.J. McCarthy still mending an ankle sprain.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 48-10 drubbing of the Cincinnati Bengals, starting with cornerback Isaiah Rodgers' history-making performance. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw and safety Harrison Smith returned and made immediate impacts. Kicker Will Reichard just set a franchise record. It's the rebound performance the Vikings needed.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about safety Harrison Smith's absence and how that has affected the defense, running back Cam Akers' annual return to Minnesota, the philosophies of Kevin O'Connell's offense, and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' pivot to quarterback Carson Wentz, who joined the team Aug. 24, amid quarterback J.J. McCarthy's ankle injury. What to expect from Wentz against the Bengals on Sunday? Who will be protecting Wentz along the offensive line? And what do history lessons tell us about what this season could become?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker come to you from U.S. Bank Stadium, where the Vikings lost the home opener, 22-6, to the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday night. What to make of the listless showing from quarterback J.J. McCarthy and company? What about the mounting injuries and unrelenting pressure in the pocket? What to make of the defensive showing? Where do they go from here?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about linebacker Blake Cashman's absence, the pass rush matchup versus the Falcons' Michael Penix Jr. on Sunday night, receiver Adam Thielen's role, and more ahead of Vikings-Falcons.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday night's Vikings-Falcons matchup that will bring intrigue on both sides of the ball. They discuss the issues and ailments to key defenders like Blake Cashman, Andrew Van Ginkel and Harrison Smith, the 2024 draft class with J.J. McCarthy and Michael Penix Jr., Kirk Cousins returning, and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' 27-24 win after returning from Chicago, where quarterback J.J. McCarthy had a historic fourth quarter in his NFL debut. What did teammates and coaches say about McCarthy afterward? What went wrong in the first three quarters? When is Christian Darrisaw coming back? They also discuss the running back split, Javon Hargrave's presence, and a dynamic new punt returner in Myles Price.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your Vikings-related questions about receiver Adam Thielen, the cornerback depth chart, Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, and the latest on ailments for safety Harrison Smith and tackle Christian Darrisaw.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Monday night's season opener in Chicago, where Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy will return to face his hometown team in his first NFL start. How will he manage the emotions? How will the Vikings manage him? And what should be expected in the matchup of makeovers between the Vikings defense and the Bears offense under new coach Ben Johnson?

From the Star Tribune booth at the Minnesota State Fair, Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss Adam Thielen returning to the Vikings, the initial 53-man roster, remaining work to do, and how the young J.J. McCarthy is set up to fare in the NFC North.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker break down the Vikings' recent flurry of moves that included trading quarterback Sam Howell to the Eagles and signing free agent veteran Carson Wentz as their new backup. They discuss the Vikings' many ties to Wentz, including QBs coach Josh McCown and center Ryan Kelly, that may help explain the move. They also get into a potential trade for receiver Adam Thielen and the recent trade that sent Harrison Phillips to the Jets.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the state of the Vikings receiving corps about two weeks away from Week 1. Do they need to add a veteran starter? Who's available? And what other injury concerns are still lingering with training camp mostly over? They also open the mailbag and answer your questions about camp surprises, Aaron Jones' versatility, and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss what they saw and heard during and after Saturday's 20-12 preseason loss to the New England Patriots. What do they make of the Vikings resting 31 players, including all 22 starters? What about Sam Howell's lackluster performance and more uncertainty at backup QB? Receiver depth is also a question, as are the returner spots, entering the preseason's final week.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the second day of Vikings-Patriots joint practices at TCO Performance Center in Eagan, which saw J.J. McCarthy give one of his best performances of camp. They also discuss the return of WR Stefon Diggs, the former Vikings draft pick, Saturday's game plan and some injury updates.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the important parts of the Vikings' preseason opener against the Houston Texans. How did J.J. McCarthy look? Why did some starters play and others didn't? How bad is Rondale Moore's knee injury? And who stood out with the second and third units?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker first discuss receiver Jordan Addison's 3-game suspension and where the Vikings go from here. Is Adam Thielen an option? They also open the mailbag and answer your questions about J.J. McCarthy vs. Sam Darnold, preseason action, etc. Then Ben and Andrew are joined by ex-Vikings safety Anthony Harris to discuss his career, this year's team, Mike Zimmer vs. Brian Flores, and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the latest from Vikings training camp. QB J.J. McCarthy returns to the field in Saturday's preseason opener vs. the Texans. How much will he play? Who will play alongside him? What, exactly, caused a recent pause at practice when Kevin O'Connell had to intervene? And which players made Ben's initial 53-man roster projection?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the mailbag and answer your Vikings questions about judging training camp performances, quarterback J.J. McCarthy's development, offensive line health, defensive dominance, cornerback depth, and more.

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker are joined by Star Tribune NFL writer and Pro Football Hall of Fame voter Mark Craig, who is in Canton, Ohio for former Vikings great Jared Allen's induction. How does Allen feel now about his wait to get into the Hall? Who's the next Viking to get in?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss what they've seen and heard through the first week of Vikings training camp. It all begins with young QB J.J. McCarthy against a veteran-laden defense that got after him during Monday's first day of padded practices. How does the team structure practices to get the most out of him? What about the healing offensive line? When will Christian Darrisaw return? (soon) Plus, who has surprised us so far?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss what they heard from Tuesday's news conference with general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and head coach Kevin O'Connell on the day that veterans reported for training camp. When will we see the new O-line together? What about J.J. McCarthy's outlook? Will Josh Metellus practice if he's not newly paid? What positions are we most intrigued about?

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker attempt to identify the core of players the Vikings have established around young quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Who makes their lists of the top 15 players under contract for at least the next two seasons?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker open the offseason mailbag that's overflowing with your questions. They start with the outlook at safety, where they're replacing Cam Bynum, as well as whether rookie Tai Felton can earn playing time. What about the home run power at running back? How much less will Aaron Jones play? And how are the Vikings judging J.J. McCarthy's progress?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss what they saw and heard at the Vikings' three-day mandatory minicamp that ended the offseason program. Kevin O'Connell gave everyone an extra week off, J.J. McCarthy is learning atop a fluid QB depth chart, Christian Darrisaw makes an early return, their three-receiver set is meshing but they want to bully defenses; that's why tight end Josh Oliver got paid again this week.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker are joined by Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. They discuss his new contract extension, lessons on the job, 2025 expectations, quarterback J.J. McCarthy and his unique situation, NFL players in the 2028 Olympics, and more.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss what they saw and heard from receiver Justin Jefferson, defensive tackle Harrison Phillips, new cornerback Isaiah Rodgers and more following Monday's OTA session in Eagan.

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker return from the first spring practice open to reporters and discuss QB J.J. McCarthy's development, where the new guys are fitting in, and what position battles should be getting the most attention this summer.

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the latest from NFL league meetings in Eagan, Minn., where the "Tush Push" was defended, Justin Jefferson was allowed to play flag football (will he?), and a halftime show was teased for a Christmas game (the Vikings play on Christmas).

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the twists and turns of the Vikings' 2025 schedule that includes a frequent spotlight on quarterback J.J. McCarthy's team through seven nationally-televised games. What are the schedule quirks to know? They also open a listener mailbag and answer your questions about always playing in Seattle, biggest games, and more.

Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss what they saw and heard from the first day of a three-day Vikings rookie minicamp this weekend. That begs the question: which rookies from a small five-man class have the clearest paths to contribute right away?

Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss what they heard from Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy during his first local media appearance since last season. What did he have to say about taking over a 14-win team? What did his teammates say? They also delve into Andrew Van Ginkel's new contract, Josh Metellus' case for a new deal, and more.