The Minnesota Vikings’ offense is set to have a new look in 2025, mainly due to the team’s decision to replace Sam Darnold with their 2024 first-round draft pick, quarterback J.J. McCarthy. McCarthy already has a solid group of offensive weapons around him, but earlier this week, the Vikings made a couple of roster moves to further bolster that side of the ball. They added another tight end and released a linebacker to make room.
Just before the start of their mandatory minicamp, Minnesota extended their No. 2 tight end, Josh Oliver, with a new three-year, $23.25 million deal. With Oliver and Pro Bowl-caliber T.J. Hockenson already in the mix, the Vikings appear to be in good shape at tight end. Still, the front office saw room for improvement and made a few interesting adjustments.
Vikings Add Giovanni Ricci, Cut Matt Harmon
Soon after the news of Oliver’s extension, the Vikings signed tight end Giovanni Ricci. Originally undrafted in 2020, Ricci started his career with the Carolina Panthers, where he played as a fullback. He appeared in 36 games from 2021 to 2023, recording nine receptions for 102 yards. More recently, he had short stints with the Browns and Patriots but didn’t see any playing time before being cut by New England in April.
Minnesota provided him with a fresh opportunity this week, but to make space, the team released rookie linebacker Matt Harmon. Harmon, who spent seven seasons playing college football at Kent State, joined the Vikings after going undrafted in the 2025 draft. He had a strong final collegiate season in 2024, totaling 56 tackles, seven tackles for loss, two sacks, and a pass deflection. Though his time in Minnesota was brief, Harmon’s college production may catch the attention of other NFL teams in need of linebacker depth.
Ricci’s Chances With Minnesota
While Ricci is no doubt excited to have another NFL shot, securing a long-term spot on the Vikings’ roster won’t be easy. Hockenson and Oliver are firmly established, and sixth-round rookie Gavin Bartholomew currently holds a higher position on the depth chart. Ricci’s most realistic route to sticking around could be via the practice squad. However, if he performs well in training camp and preseason—especially with his added value as a blocker and former fullback—he might find a more permanent role. It may not be a headline-grabbing acquisition, but this move reflects the Vikings’ ongoing effort to fine-tune their roster, even with smaller-scale decisions.
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