The Minnesota Vikings are heading into the 2025 NFL season with high expectations, but one major question remains unanswered: Who will handle punt return duties for the team in Week 1? In this context, a familiar yet surprising name has surfaced: Brandon Powell. Depending on how OTAs, training camp, and preseason games unfold, the Vikings bringing Powell back is not entirely out of the question.
Brandon Powell – A Familiar and Reliable Option
Brandon Powell, who served as the Vikings’ punt returner in the 2023 and 2024 seasons, is currently a free agent. During his time with Minnesota, Powell left a mark with his consistency in the punt return role, even if he wasn’t known for explosive plays. According to PFF data, across 90 punt return opportunities (59 returns and 31 fair catches) over the past two seasons, Powell committed just one muff (fumble). This reliability is exactly what the Vikings need, especially as they aim to avoid costly mistakes that could give opponents easy scoring opportunities.
Beyond his punt return duties, Powell also proved his value as a backup wide receiver. In the 2023 season, when star Justin Jefferson was sidelined by injury, Powell stepped up, recording 29 receptions for 324 yards and a game-winning touchdown in a victory over the Atlanta Falcons. His versatility, speed, and agility—despite standing at just 5-foot-8 and weighing 181 pounds—made Powell a valuable asset in both special teams and the Vikings’ offensive scheme.
A Fierce Competition for the Punt Return Role
Currently, the Vikings have several candidates vying for the punt return job, including Jalen Nailor (wide receiver), Silas Bolden (undrafted rookie), Isaiah Rodgers (cornerback), and Ty Chandler (running back). However, none of these players offer the same level of certainty that Powell provided. Nailor and Bolden may bring speed and potential for big plays, but their experience as punt returners in the NFL is limited. Meanwhile, Rodgers and Chandler have not been extensively tested in this role.
During OTAs, mini-camp, training camp, and preseason games, the Vikings will have the chance to thoroughly evaluate these candidates. However, if none of them demonstrate consistency or reliable ball-handling, the team may consider bringing Powell back. This is particularly critical given the potential absence of Jordan Addison for the first few games of the season due to a suspension, which could leave the Vikings needing a versatile player like Powell to fill the gap.
Why Bringing Powell Back Is “Shocking”
The idea of the Vikings considering Powell’s return could be seen as “shocking” for several reasons. First, Powell isn’t a name fans would expect to see back on the roster, especially with younger, more promising options available. Second, Powell is not a star or a high-profile player—he’s a journeyman who has bounced around teams like the Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, and Los Angeles Rams before landing with the Vikings. The fact that a player like him is being considered as a solution to the team’s issues might catch many by surprise.
However, in a situation where the Vikings need stability and experience, Powell is a logical choice. He previously worked with head coach Kevin O’Connell during their time with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021, where he made an impact with a 61-yard punt return touchdown against the Vikings. His familiarity with O’Connell’s system could allow Powell to quickly reintegrate if signed.
Are the Vikings Truly “Desperate”?
The term “desperate” may be a bit exaggerated, but it reflects the pressure the Vikings face in finding a reliable punt returner. In football, the punt return role demands not only speed and playmaking ability but also focus and the ability to handle the ball under high-pressure situations. A single mistake, such as a muffed punt or mishandling the ball, can completely shift the momentum of a game. With aspirations of competing in the NFC North and beyond in the playoffs, the Vikings cannot afford such errors.
If the Vikings fail to identify a viable option among their current roster, signing Powell—even on a short-term contract for the first few games—could be a safe solution. This would buy the team time to develop younger talents like Bolden or Nailor while ensuring they don’t risk costly mistakes with an inexperienced player in critical games.
Conclusion
Brandon Powell may not be the name Vikings fans want to see return, but he represents stability and experience in a role that is often overlooked but critically important. If training camp and preseason fail to produce a reliable punt returner, don’t be surprised if the Vikings make the unexpected move to bring Powell back. An announcement of his signing ahead of the 2025 season might shock some fans, but it would signal that the team is prioritizing safety and efficiency in their quest for a playoff berth.