The Minnesota Vikings are at a crossroads as they plan for the 2025 NFL season, with their offensive line under intense scrutiny. One surprising name in the conversation is Blake Brandel, a versatile lineman who started all 17 games at left guard in 2024 and signed a three-year, $9.5 million contract extension in March 2024. Despite his reliability and recent contract, reports suggest Brandel could face a shock cut as the Vikings bolster their roster to protect young quarterback J.J. McCarthy and pursue long-term success.
A Reliable Journey to a Starting Role
Blake Brandel, a sixth-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Oregon State, has been a model of perseverance. After spending his rookie season on the practice squad and navigating multiple waivers and re-signings in his early years, Brandel gradually carved out a role with the Vikings. His versatility—having played both guard and tackle—made him a valuable asset. In 2021, he debuted in the NFL, appearing in 13 games primarily as a reserve lineman and special teams contributor. By 2022, he stepped in for three starts at left tackle in place of an injured Christian Darrisaw, showcasing his ability to handle high-pressure situations, including a standout performance against the Buffalo Bills where he allowed just two QB hurries in 25 reps.
In 2023, Brandel continued to build his resume, appearing in all 17 games with two starts at right guard. His breakout came in 2024, when he secured the starting left guard position over veteran Dalton Risner. His performance was highlighted by a stellar Week 1 game against the New York Giants, earning a 91.2 Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade while facing a formidable defensive line featuring Dexter Lawrence and Brian Burns. Vikings offensive coordinator Wes Phillips praised Brandel’s technique and coachability, noting his readiness to take on the starting role.
Why Is Brandel at Risk?
Despite his 17-game starting streak and a contract with $4.75 million guaranteed, Brandel’s future with the Vikings is uncertain. Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report recently named Brandel as the Vikings’ “best player who could still be cut,” citing the team’s aggressive offseason moves. The Vikings signed right guard Will Fries to a five-year, $88 million deal and drafted Ohio State’s Donovan Jackson in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Both additions signal a commitment to upgrading the offensive line, potentially pushing Brandel back to a depth role.
Brandel’s 2024 performance, while solid, wasn’t without flaws. He allowed seven sacks, seven quarterback hits, and 27 hurries over 1,117 snaps at left guard, per PFF, and was flagged for six false start penalties, ranking him No. 62 out of 77 qualifying guards. These metrics suggest he’s a serviceable but not elite starter, which may not align with the Vikings’ ambitions to build a top-tier line around McCarthy. Cutting Brandel could save the team $1.6 million in cap space, though a post-June 1 trade could yield $3.25 million in savings with minimal dead money, making it a more financially appealing option.
The Case for Keeping Brandel
While the Vikings’ roster moves create pressure, Brandel’s versatility and experience make a compelling case for his retention. His ability to play both guard and tackle positions provides critical depth, especially after the season-ending injury to left tackle Christian Darrisaw in 2024. Brandel’s prior experience at left tackle—273 snaps in his career—positions him as a viable option to fill in if needed. His familiarity with the Vikings’ system, having spent five years with the team, and his chemistry with center Garrett Bradbury, a frequent offseason workout partner, add to his value.
The Vikings’ offensive line has faced criticism for its inconsistency, particularly after a disappointing end to the 2024 season, where quarterback Sam Darnold was pressured 33 times in a Week 18 loss to the Detroit Lions, with Brandel and right tackle Brian O’Neill combining for 17 pressures allowed. However, Brandel’s standout moments, like his Week 1 performance, show he can compete at a high level. Trading or cutting him risks losing a reliable player who could serve as a swing lineman or step in during injuries, a common occurrence on the offensive line.
The Bigger Picture: Vikings’ Future Plans
The Vikings’ offseason moves reflect a clear strategy to protect McCarthy, their quarterback of the future. The additions of Fries, Jackson, and other linemen like Ryan Kelly signal a shift toward a more robust and talented unit. However, the team’s limited draft capital in 2025—starting with just four picks—means they must be strategic with roster decisions. General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah faces a delicate balance: building a championship-caliber line while maintaining depth and managing the salary cap.
Brandel’s contract, with an average annual value of $3.16 million, is modest for a starter but significant for a backup. If the Vikings believe Jackson and Fries can anchor the guard positions, Brandel’s role may diminish. Yet, his proven ability to step in at multiple positions and his “rock-solid” reputation, as noted by Vikings Territory, make him a player most coaching staffs would value.
Trade Over Cut?
Rather than an outright cut, trading Brandel could be a smarter move. His versatility and low-cost contract could attract teams needing offensive line depth, especially those with injury concerns. A trade would maximize cap savings and potentially yield a late-round draft pick, helping the Vikings recoup some of their limited draft capital. However, Brandel’s trade value is uncertain, as his PFF grades and penalty issues may deter potential suitors.
Conclusion
Blake Brandel’s potential cut is a surprising development for a player who has been a steady presence for the Vikings. His journey from practice squad to starter reflects his work ethic and adaptability, but the team’s recent investments in the offensive line suggest a shift in priorities. While Brandel’s versatility and familiarity with the system make him a valuable asset, the Vikings’ focus on building around J.J. McCarthy may push him out of the starting lineup. Whether through a trade or retention as a depth piece, Brandel’s future remains a key storyline as the Vikings prepare for training camp. For now, fans can only wait to see how this “shock cut” scenario unfolds.