Access Vikings
Access Vikings is a podcast hosted by Star Tribune reporters Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer, and Emily Leiker. The show covers all things Minnesota Vikings football, offering analysis, insider news, and commentary. Like the team's seasons, the podcast is full of ups and downs but never boring.
Episodes
This Vikings defense seems unstoppable. These players showed defense's strengths vs. Saints
The Vikings defense has been dominant through the first five weeks of the season. Which players deserve more widespread hype for the roles they're playing? Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker break down some film from the Vikings' win over the Saints that might not have been the flashiest, but shows where and how this Vikings defense excels, highlighting players like J
Vikings beat Saints, 23-13, in Justin Jefferson's homecoming and first full game with Kyler Murray
Justin Jefferson reminded football fans why he's a superstar with a eye-popping touchdown grab in his homecoming. Is this Vikings offense finally settling in? Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Ben Goessling, Emily Leiker and Chip Scoggins discuss the Vikings' 23-13 win over the Saints in New Orleans. Kyler Murray looked in control, dealing to Jefferson and a variety of receivers in the victory, and
Vikings-Saints preview: Will WRs Justin Jefferson, Odell Beckham Jr. play?
As wide receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison worked through injuries this week, the Vikings brought in backup: Odell Beckham Jr. Which receivers will make up the Vikings' corps vs. the Saints? Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday's Week 5 Vikings-Saints game, when the Vikings are hoping Jefferson and Kyler Murray can get a full gam
The Saints need to shake off a MNF loss. Can Tyler Shough deliver in big moments vs. Vikings?
The Vikings head south to meet the New Orleans Saints, who have a short week following their Monday Night Football loss to the Atlanta Falcons. Minnesota Star Tribune reporter Emily Leiker is joined by NewOrlean.Football's Mike Triplett to discuss what went wrong for the Saints on Monday night and how they could try to get back on track versus the Vikings. How has second-year quarterback Tyler Sho
Did Kyler Murray look better vs. Dolphins upon review? How offense is evolving for QB
The Vikings remain 4-0 after a win over the Dolphins, but the boo birds were loud at U.S. Bank Stadium for quarterback Kyler Murray and the offense's struggles. But did Murray look better with a second look? Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker take a look at the Vikings-Dolphins game tape to see what went wrong around Murray, how he eventually found rhythm with tight e
Vikings beat Dolphins, 15-10, behind Will Reichard's leg as offensive struggles continue
Kicker Will Reichard cleared five field goals to give the Vikings a 15-10 win against the Dolphins at U.S. Bank Stadium. Why couldn't the offense find the end zone? Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' fourth straight win from T.J. Hockenson helping the offense find some rhythm near the end of the game to continued special teams and def
Vikings-Dolphins preview: Can Kyler Murray, Vikings offense find rhythm without Justin Jefferson?
The Vikings will be without star wide receiver Justin Jefferson on Sunday versus the Dolphins as he continues recovery from an ankle sprain. Can Kyler Murray and the Vikings offense find a rhythm without him? Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the biggest storylines of Week 4, what intrigues them most about Vikings-Dolphins and more.
New Dolphins regime visits Vikings still seeking first win. What have they learned through 3 games?
The Dolphins overhauled their leadership this offseason, hiring former Packers staffers Jeff Hafley and Jon-Eric Sullivan as head coach and general manager, respectively. The new regime built with faces familiar to the Vikings visits U.S. Bank Stadium in Week 4 still searching for its first win. Minnesota Star Tribune reporter Emily Leiker is joined by South Florida Sun Sentinel reporter David Fur
Kyler Murray's first full game as a Viking left some things to be desired. What does the film show?
Kyler Murray finished his first full game as a Viking 15-of-29 for 168 yards with one touchdown and one interception. The performance left plenty room to grow moving forward. Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker break down some of Murray's film against the Buccaneers and discuss what went wrong and how on a variety of plays.
The J.J. McCarthy era is over. What did the Vikings, Kevin O'Connell learn?
The Vikings sent quarterback J.J. McCarthy, their former No. 10 overall pick, to the Giants on Monday morning in exchange for a 2027 fifth-round draft pick. What did the franchise and Kevin O'Connell learn from the rollercoaster experience with the young QB? Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker break down what was said by O'Connell and general manager Nolan Teasley foll
Vikings defense, special teams carry team to 23-16 win over Buccaneers for 3-0 start
Six sacks, three field goals, two interceptions and one punt return touchdown are among the highlights on a Vikings stat sheet led by defense and special teams Sunday. Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer break down the 23-16 victory against the Buccaneers in Tampa Bay to move the Vikings to 3-0. How did Kyler Murray look in his return to game action, and what's Justin
Vikings-Buccaneers preview: Kyler Murray returns to action as Vikings try to go 3-0
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray is back after clearing concussion protocol. How will the Vikings offense look with him back holding the reins? Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Vikings-Bucs for Week 3. How fired up will the 0-2 Bucs, led by Baker Mayfield, be when the Vikings come to town?
Vikings face a Bucs team hungry for a win Sunday. How could Tampa Bay tip the scales in their favor?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are 0-2 after losses to the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns. What would need to go right for them to emerge victorious when the Minnesota Vikings come to town Sunday? Minnesota Star Tribune reporter Emily Leiker is joined by Greg Auman of FOX Sports to talk about the Bucs rough start to the season, which follows quarterback Baker Mayfield receiving a big contract e
Vikings' first-round pick Caleb Banks saw the field more Week 2. How did he fare?
The Vikings' 2026 first-round draft pick, defensive lineman Caleb Banks, saw an uptick in his snaps from Week 1 to 2. How did he fare? Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker break down some of his film from the Vikings' 9-3 win over the Bears. They highlight two of Banks' stronger plays and where he could improve, while looking to teammate Jalen Redmond for what one of hi
Vikings limit Caleb Williams prior to exit, beat Bears 9-3 in rain
Before his exit due to a hamstring injury, Bears quarterback Caleb Williams was limited by Brian Flores' Vikings defense following an explosive Week 1 performance. Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker, plus columnist Chip Scoggins, break down the Vikings' 9-3 win on a soggy day at Soldier Field. What did players have to say about strong performances from outside lineback
Vikings-Bears preview: Brian Flores' and Ben Johnson's units go head-to-head
Everyone's talking about the matchup between Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores and Bears head coach Ben Johnson, an offensive guru. Who will prevail? Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Week 2's Vikings-Bears matchup at Soldier Field. The Vikings will start Carson Wentz at quarterback with Kyler Murray ruled out as he continues working t
Ben Johnson's Bears offense put up 59 points Week 1. How might they fare vs. Vikings?
Ben Johnson's second season with the Chicago Bears started with a bang: A 59-37 win over the Carolina Panthers. Will they be as productive against the Minnesota Vikings? Minnesota Star Tribune reporter Emily Leiker is joined by ESPN's Courtney Cronin to discuss what was learned from the Bears' Week 1 victory, and what's expected to be different in the Week 2 NFC North matchup.
How the Vikings defense sealed the win after busting coverages vs. the Packers
Emily Leiker is joined by Minnesota Star Tribune Vikings writer Andrew Krammer to discuss six defensive plays from the Vikings' 39-22 win over the Packers. What went wrong on the 82-yard touchdown to Packers receiver Christian Watson? How did quarterback Jordan Love complete another 32-yard pass to Watson just before halftime? And what impact did safety Harrison Smith have on the strip sack by And
Carson Wentz, Vikings defense cap furious comeback in win over Packers
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker return from the locker room to recap the Vikings' 39-22 comeback win over the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. What's the status of quarterback Kyler Murray? What did they think about Carson Wentz's performance? And what about a Jekyll & Hyde defense that turned things on in the clutch? The Vikings needed to catch some breaks and they capitaliz
Vikings-Packers preview: How can Harrison Smith and Brian Flores limit Jordan Love?
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Sunday's season opener against the Packers. What are their individual storylines to watch? What's the most interesting thing we each heard this week? Who ends up 1-0 on Sunday? They discuss Harrison Smith's return, Kyler Murray to Jordan Love, and everything in between.
How will absences of Micah Parsons, Josh Jacobs affect Vikings-Packers Week 1 matchup?
The Minnesota Vikings host the Green Bay Packers -- an NFC North rival -- for their season-opener. With the Packers currently without star players in edge rusher Micah Parsons and running back Josh Jacobs, how could the matchup look different from last year's two meetings? Minnesota Star Tribune reporter Emily Leiker is joined by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Tom Silverstein for an inside look
How the Vikings offense could evolve with quarterback Kyler Murray
Emily Leiker is joined by Minnesota Star Tribune Vikings writer Andrew Krammer to discuss what changes could be coming to the Vikings offense with quarterback Kyler Murray. Follow along at the Star Tribune's YouTube page for the video!
Minnesota Vikings 2026 season preview: Projected MVPs, impact rookies and more
Minnesota Star Tribune reporters Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker make their picks as they preview the season ahead for the Vikings, talking win totals and impact rookies, too. Plus, Vikings general manager Nolan Teasley's comments on quarterback J.J. McCarthy's future with the Vikings.
A decade since Teddy Bridgewater's injury and a bonkers Vikings season
Ben Goessling and Andrew Krammer are joined by former Vikings offensive lineman (and current NFL agent) Jeremiah Sirles to discuss quarterback Teddy Bridgewater's dislocated knee during an Aug. 30 practice and the ripple effects throughout a tumultuous 2016 season.
Vikings keep four quarterbacks on the initial 53-man roster
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the Vikings' initial 53-man roster formed Sunday, when they kept Kyler Murray, Carson Wentz, J.J. McCarthy and Max Brosmer. Will it stay that way? What other noteworthy moves were made? What positions could use some outside help?
Position battles, J.J. McCarthy and the Vikings' preseason finale in Denver
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss the final practices of Vikings training camp and preview Friday night's preseason finale in Denver, where players like safety Jacob Thomas can try to cap their cases for a 53-man roster spot ahead of Sunday's deadline. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy is expected to start if he's healthy enough to play.
J.J. McCarthy gets banged up, Vikings rookies make noise in preseason loss to Ravens
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 13-3 loss to the Baltimore Ravens at U.S. Bank Stadium. J.J. McCarthy's ongoing struggles likely won't solidify his spot as backup quarterback. Rookie defenders made plenty of noise, including a 322-pound man in coverage and Caleb Banks' splashy run stop.
Takeaways from two joint practices between the Vikings and Ravens
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap back-to-back joint practices between the Vikings and Ravens. They recap a strong finish for the Vikings in a situational drill, discuss the high point of quarterback Kyler Murray's performance, and pinpoint where there is room to grow.
J.J. McCarthy is the Vikings backup QB, but could that change to Carson Wentz?
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss Saturday's preseason opener, how quarterbacks J.J. McCarthy and Carson Wentz played, and what to make of a quiet debut from a talented rookie class?
Kyler Murray, J.J. McCarthy to both play in Vikings preseason opener vs. Giants
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker preview Saturday's preseason opener at the New York Giants. Quarterback Kyler Murray should start with most of the first-team offense (sans Justin Jefferson) in New York, providing the first glimpse of what he can do in purple. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy and other young players will also get plenty of run. The crew runs through what they're watching fo
Larry Fitzgerald Jr.'s bittersweet Hall of Fame induction
Minnesota's own and Arizona Cardinals great Larry Fitzgerald Jr. joined the NFL Hall of Fame over the weekend just months after the passing of his father, Larry Fitzgerald Sr. How did Fitzgerald remember his father throughout the bittersweet affair? Emily Leiker is joined by Minnesota Star Tribune football enterprise reporter Mark Craig to discuss Fitzgerald's induction over the weekend, plus an e
Kyler Murray named Vikings starting quarterback over J.J. McCarthy
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker react to the breaking news that Kyler Murray has been named the Vikings' starting QB over J.J. McCarthy. What did Kevin O'Connell have to say about the decision? What does this mean for McCarthy? How will the Vikings proceed with Murray as the guy? What changes are in store for the offense?
Which Vikings rookies can make an impact right away?
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss a busy training camp for the Vikings' nine drafted rookies. Which picks have been most involved so far? Who has a clear lane to contribute? They also size up an ongoing QB battle between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy that appears to be leaning one direction.
What stood out after the Vikings' first padded practice of camp?
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker discuss what they saw and heard from Monday's first padded practice of training camp. How has Kyler Murray vs. J.J. McCarthy unfolded so far? Was it a concerning start for the offensive line? Or the typical ebbs and flows of camp? What about top pick Caleb Banks? They also discuss hydration, slip and slides, and safety Harrison Smith.
Which Vikings (non-QB edition) could surprise at training camp?
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker recap what they've seen and heard from two days of Vikings training camp. How is the QB competition unfolding? What non-QB players are standing out? Who will surprise fans once the gates open on Saturday?
How will Vikings split camp reps between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy?
Ben Goessling, Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker bring you the first training camp dispatch from the team's Eagan headquarters, where DBs coach Gerald Alexander is suspended for three weeks following a DUI arrest, right tackle Brian O'Neill has a new contract and, oh yeah, there's a QB competition beginning in earnest.
Vikings training camp preview: Kyler Murray vs. J.J. McCarthy lead position battles
Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker return from a summer break, and the Vikings will soon as well. They get you prepared with a Vikings training camp primer that touches on the topic du jour -- Kyler Murray vs. J.J. McCarthy -- before delving into the run game, position battles, the front office, and more.
Where does Vikings QB competition stand at end of offseason program? Plus, listener Q&A
Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker discuss Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell's comments about the state of the QB competition at the end of the Vikings' offseason program, and how it's expected to continue into training camp. They also discuss Christian Darrisaw's health and how the Vikings safety room is faring without Harrison Smith. Finally, they answer listeners' questions about the QBs, O-line,
Vikings GM Nolan Teasley is 'guided by evaluation, anchored by data'
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?
The Vikings QB competition is underway. How do McCarthy, Murray view it?
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.
The NFL draft is coming to Minnesota, plus updates on Vikings GM search
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."
Vikings sign ex-49ers receiver Jauan Jennings; rookie minicamp takeaways
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 offsea
Vikings' GM search underway; roster in need of veteran help?
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.
Vikings cap 2026 draft with a speedy RB and J.J. McCarthy's fullback friend
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
Vikings trade Jonathan Greenard to Eagles for two third-round picks
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?
Vikings surprise by drafting first-round defensive tackle Caleb Banks
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?
Justin Jefferson sees Kyler Murray as a "spark," and news from start of Vikings' offseason program
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
Vikings mailbag: Draft needs? First-round WR or TE? GM job?
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.
Dillon Thieneman? Jadarian Price? A center? How Vikings could use four Top 100 picks
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?
How does Vikings brass feel about their QB room? Debriefing NFL owner's meetings
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.
Vikings bidding to host NFL Draft, plus how Wentz fits with Murray and McCarthy
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.
What exactly are the Vikings getting in Kyler Murray? ESPN's Josh Weinfuss lets us know
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?
Vikings sign Kyler Murray, who says he's ready to compete with J.J. McCarthy
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
Vikings free agency: Aaron Jones returns, Harrison Smith released
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 ea
Vikings mailbag: Quarterbacks, J.J. McCarthy, and competitively rebuilding
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?
Vikings takeaways from the NFL Scouting Combine
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 st
Vikings tidbits and NFL combine preview with CBS Sports' Richard Johnson
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.
Sam Darnold is a Super Bowl champ. Who might the Vikings bring as competition for J.J. McCarthy?
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 i
Justin Jefferson calls it like he sees it, and Vikings' C.J. Ham retires
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.
Vikings add three coaches, Seahawks QBs coach Andrew Janocko joins
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.
Vikings fire general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah after four seasons
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 th
Shield your eyes, Vikings fans... it's a Darnold vs. Maye Super Bowl
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.
Vikings mailbag: Roster needs? Potential cuts? Coaching carousel?
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?
Cody Alexander joins to talk Brian Flores, Vikings defenders
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.
Jordan Addison arrested, Vikings' brass talks quarterbacks and Flores
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 Flor
Vikings' locker room cleanout, Brian Flores' future and Packers-Bears
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.
Vikings celebrate Harrison Smith, C.J. Ham in finale win over Packers
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, incl
J.J. McCarthy cleared to start final game of Vikings season
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 offen
J.J. McCarthy, Brian Flores and Vikings-Packers regular season finale
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.
Vikings defense wallops Lions offense for season sweep of Detroit
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 th
Debating the Vikings' All-Quarter Century Team from Culpepper to Cousins
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?
Max Brosmer to start for Vikings vs. Lions with J.J. McCarthy on the mend
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.
J.J. McCarthy injures throwing hand in Vikings win at New York
Ben Goessling and Emily Leiker recap the Vikings' 16-13 win over the New York Giants from MetLife Stadium.
Christian Darrisaw's season ends on injured reserve; Vikings mailbag
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 M
Vikings, J.J. McCarthy get another golden opportunity in New York
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
Flashback Tuesday: Minneapolis Miracle memories
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.
Vikings, J.J. McCarthy take momentum on the road to Dallas on Sunday night
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.
Vikings mailbag: Brian Flores' future? 2026 quarterbacks?
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.
Vikings, J.J. McCarthy get confidence-building win over Commanders
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?
J.J. McCarthy vs. Jayden Daniels on Sunday; plus a Vikings mailbag
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.
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