Vikings 2025 Roster Surprises: 7 UDFAs, Trades, & Bold Moves
MINNEAPOLIS, MN. — Vikings’ 2025 roster unveiled! 7 UDFAs, shocking cuts, and trades—join The Real Forno Show for expert analysis. Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano break down the Minnesota Vikings’ initial 53-man roster on this Vikings 1st & SKOL. From undrafted free agents stealing the spotlight to blockbuster trades, this episode unpacks what’s next for Minnesota. Keywords: Vikings 2025 roster surprises, NFL roster cuts, J.J. McCarthy, Justin Jefferson.
Why This Roster Reveal Matters
The Minnesota Vikings’ 2025 roster reveal is more than a list—it’s a glimpse into GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s and head coach Kevin O’Connell’s bold vision. For fans, analysts, and casual NFL viewers, The Real Forno Show with Tyler Forness and producer Dave Stefano offers a front-row seat to the surprises, including seven undrafted free agents (UDFAs) making the cut and major trades shaking the roster. This episode delivers sharp insights, making it a must-listen for anyone invested in the Vikings’ 2025 season. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the NFL, the breakdown is clear, engaging, and packed with actionable takeaways.
Quarterback Room: McCarthy Leads, UDFA Shines
The quarterback position sets the tone for the Vikings’ 2025 campaign. J.J. McCarthy, the clear starter, is joined by veteran Carson Wentz and undrafted rookie Max Brosmer. Forness highlights Brosmer’s standout preseason:
“He earned it, man. He was real good. He just straight up earned his job, and it’s really cool to see a player earn it like that.”
Wentz’s late signing adds veteran depth, but Brosmer’s inclusion as one of seven UDFAs signals Minnesota’s focus on developing raw talent. However, Forness notes the roster could shift: “I don’t think Brosmer is a guy you’re going to end up moving on from, but Wentz’s contract isn’t fully guaranteed until Week 1.”
Running Back: A Surprise Cut Looms
The running back room features Aaron Jones, Jordan Mason, Zavier Scott, and Ty Chandler, with fullback C.J. Ham on Injured Reserve (Designated for Return). Scott, another UDFA, earned his spot with an explosive preseason, but Forness speculates on Chandler’s future:
“I would guess that Chandler is a candidate to be replaced on this roster if they end up wanting to bring in an extra wide receiver.”
The absence of a healthy fullback raises questions, with Stefano suggesting tight end Josh Oliver could fill in temporarily. This flexibility underscores the Vikings’ strategic depth management.
Wide Receiver Woes: Thin but Intriguing
With Jordan Addison suspended for three games, the wide receiver group leans heavily on Justin Jefferson, Jalen Nailor, Tai Felton, Tim Jones, and Myles Price. Forness was surprised by Tim Jones’ inclusion over Lucky Jackson:
“I am surprised Lucky Jackson didn’t make it… I thought he played well enough to make the roster.”
Jones’ $500,000 guaranteed contract likely tipped the scales, but Nailor’s hand injury adds uncertainty. Stefano emphasizes the need for reinforcements: “We need to pick up somebody.” Potential trade targets like Adam Thielen failed to come to fruition, or free agents like Robert Woods could reshape this group before Week 1.
Tight End: Youth Over Experience
The tight end position features T.J. Hockenson, Josh Oliver, and rookie Ben Yurosek, with Gavin Bartholomew sidelined for the year on the PUP list. Forness expected veteran Nick Vannett to make the roster, but Yurosek’s preseason performance secured his spot:
“Yurosek looked good in the preseason. He was projected to be a top-50 pick at one point.”
The decision to prioritize youth over Vannett’s experience suggests a long-term investment, though Forness notes Vannett could be a practice squad elevation candidate.
Offensive Line: Depth and Development
The Vikings kept ten offensive linemen, a surprise for Stefano, who expected nine. Starters Christian Darrisaw, Brian O’Neill, Donovan Jackson, Will Fries, and Ryan Kelly are joined by backups Blake Brandel, Justin Skule, Michael Jurgens, Walter Rouse, and UDFA Joe Huber. Forness praises Huber’s consistency:
“He was really good early on in the preseason and continued that. This guy’s worth developing.”
This depth signals confidence in the trenches, though Forness cautions that Huber could be a practice squad candidate if roster tweaks occur.
Defensive Line: UDFA Elijah Williams Steals the Show
The defensive line features Jonathan Allen, Javon Hargrave, Jalen Redmond, Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, Levi Drake Rodriguez, and UDFA Elijah Williams. Forness, an early advocate for Williams, celebrates his inclusion:
“He was consistently getting pressure, disrupting, and beating offensive linemen. I really liked what he was able to do.”
Taki Taimani’s omission was a surprise, but Forness expects him on the practice squad, highlighting the replaceable nature of nose tackles: “They’re kind of a dime a dozen.”
Edge Rushers: The Biggest Shock
The edge rusher group—Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, Dallas Turner, Bo Richter, and UDFA Chaz Chambliss—sparked the episode’s biggest debate. The decision to waive Gabriel Murphy stunned Forness:
“Murphy is probably the biggest surprise of the entire day. I would’ve kept him.”
Chambliss’ special teams prowess secured his spot, but Stefano doubts Murphy will clear waivers: “There’s an edge rusher deficiency across the league.” This move signals heavy reliance on Turner, who Forness predicts will play 700-800 snaps.
Linebackers: A Strength in the Making
Inside linebackers Blake Cashman, Ivan Pace Jr., Eric Wilson, Kobe King, and UDFA Austin Keys form a versatile group. Forness sees potential in Keys’ old-school linebacker build:
“He’s like 6’3”, weighs around 240… If Keys can develop, he has a great body type for a middle linebacker.”
This group’s affordability and versatility could elevate the Vikings’ defense, reminiscent of Anthony Barr and Eric Kendricks’ impact.
Secondary: Thin but Strategic
The cornerback room, with only Byron Murphy Jr., Isaiah Rodgers, Jeff Okudah, and Dwight McGlothern, is notably thin. Forness expects a move:
“It signals that a move is coming… Is it a trade, a waiver claim, or a signing? I don’t know.”
The safety group—Harrison Smith, Josh Metellus, Theo Jackson, Jay Ward, and Tavierre Thomas—offers flexibility, with Stefano noting: “We’ve got safeties that can rotate down if they had to.” Thomas’ $600,000 guaranteed contract ensured his spot.
Special Teams: Stability with a Twist
Kicker Will Reichard, punter Ryan Wright, and long snapper Andrew DePaola round out the roster. Wright won the punting battle over Oscar Chapman, who Forness expects on the practice squad via the International Pathway Program. The stability here contrasts with the roster’s fluidity elsewhere.
What’s Next for the Vikings?
The initial 53-man roster is just the beginning. Forness anticipates changes: “This will change a decent amount over the next 48 hours.” With waiver claims starting at noon on August 27, 2025, and GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s press conference on August 28, the Vikings are poised for action. Potential targets include cornerbacks, wide receivers, or a stopgap fullback like Jacob Johnson. Forness predicts: “I bet Kwesi is gonna be active on the waiver wire… I expect at least one or two trades.”
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The Real Forno Show delivers because it combines expert analysis with fan-friendly clarity. Forness and Stefano don’t just list names—they explain why these moves matter, from UDFA gems like Max Brosmer and Elijah Williams to the strategic implications of trading Harrison Phillips and Sam Howell. For fans craving insight into the Vikings’ 2025 season, this episode offers a roadmap to the team’s potential. It’s a compelling mix of surprises, strategy, and speculation that keeps you hooked, whether you’re tailgating at U.S. Bank Stadium or streaming from afar.
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Tyler Forness @TheRealForno of Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and A to Z Sports @AtoZSportsNFL, with Dave Stefano @Luft_Krigare producing, this The Real Forno Show @RealFornoShow. Podcasts partnered with the Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN and the network’s NFL feed over at Pro Football Insiders @Pro_FB_Insiders. Your ultimate source for NFL insights, breaking news, and expert analysis. From draft prospects to game-day strategies, we’ve got the inside scoop!
Question
What’s your take on the Vikings’ roster surprises? Which UDFA are you most excited about, and who do you hope they add via trades or waivers?