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With training camp approaching, the Minnesota Vikings enter the 2025 season with a largely stable roster—but one significant decision looms regarding veteran right tackle Brian O’Neill.
O’Neill, a 2018 second-round draft pick (No. 62 overall), has been a fixture on the right side of the offensive line since Week 6 of his rookie year. He’s played in at least 14 games every season since then, establishing himself as one of the NFL’s premier right tackles. According to Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton, O’Neill allowed just two sacks across 664 pass-blocking snaps last season, earning a second Pro Bowl nod in the process. Despite his strong play, he currently has no guaranteed money left on his contract, which was extended in 2021—putting him in line for another deal.
Moton identified O’Neill as the Vikings’ top contract extension priority heading into 2025. Per Over The Cap, Minnesota currently has around $18.4 million in cap space, and a restructured deal for O’Neill could create close to $13 million more in flexibility. He’s entering the fourth year of a five-year, $92.5 million contract.
O’Neill and left tackle Christian Darrisaw, who is returning from an ACL injury sustained in Week 8, are projected to be the only returning starters on the offensive line. According to Pro Football Focus, O’Neill was the second-highest-graded Viking lineman in both run and pass blocking, behind only Darrisaw.
Minnesota was aggressive in free agency this offseason, spending the second-most in total cap and guaranteed money across the league, with a strong emphasis on the trenches. On the offensive line, they brought in former Colts linemen Ryan Kelly and Will Fries to start at center and right guard, respectively. At left guard, Blake Brandel will face competition from 2025 first-round pick Donovan Jackson.
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Jackson, drafted 24th overall, was a key part of Ohio State’s national championship run and is viewed by scouts as a long-term starting guard. One anonymous NFL coordinator told ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler that Jackson may not be elite, but he projects as a reliable, multi-time Pro Bowler with long-term starting potential.
With Darrisaw and O’Neill anchoring the ends, the Vikings’ offensive line has a promising foundation. But after finishing last season tied for sixth-most sacks allowed and fifth-worst in yards before contact per rushing attempt, the unit must take a significant leap forward.
Head coach Kevin O’Connell has indicated a greater emphasis on the running game might be coming. Minnesota ranked 19th in rushing yards last season despite being 14th in attempts—suggesting more volume and consistency could help the line find its rhythm. Improved line play will be crucial in supporting second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who is stepping into a full-time starting role for the first time.
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