For Kevin O’Connell’s first two years as head coach, the Vikings’ run game was largely ignored—kind of like the neighbor’s yard no one’s mowed since they moved in. But that changed in 2024. The pass-first play-caller made a clear shift in philosophy, starting with the signing of former NFC North rival Aaron Jones. Jones responded in a big way: a career-high 255 carries, 1,138 yards, and 5 touchdowns.
Minnesota’s ground game took a noticeable step forward, climbing from 28th in total rush attempts (393) in 2023 to 14th (457) in 2024. They also moved up 10 spots in rushing yards, from 29th (1,553) to 19th (1,855). Still, the Vikings want more.
That commitment was reinforced this offseason. First came a contract extension for Jones in March—$7 million per year, keeping him in purple. Then came a surprise trade with the 49ers, sending a 2026 6th-rounder (and a 2025 pick swap) to San Francisco in exchange for Jordan Mason, who the team views as more than just a depth piece.
Yes, Jones is still RB1 on paper, especially with his two-year, $20 million deal. But O’Connell’s 2025 blueprint leans toward a 1A/1B split with Mason, not just a traditional starter-backup dynamic. Mason is expected to get real reps—not just in relief of Jones, but particularly in short-yardage situations where Minnesota has struggled.
Mason, now in his fourth season out of Georgia Tech, showed promise last year as Christian McCaffrey’s backup in San Francisco. With 789 rushing yards, 3 touchdowns, and 5.2 yards per carry in 12 games (6 starts), the 26-year-old proved he can handle a heavier load.
The Vikings believe a more balanced backfield will help preserve Jones—and elevate his performance—heading into his age-30 season.
Minnesota didn’t stop there. On day two of the NFL negotiating period, they inked veteran center Ryan Kelly to a deal, then followed it up by landing top free agent guard Will Fries on a five-year contract. The offensive line just got a major upgrade.
All of this aligns with the arrival of rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy. The Vikings plan to lean on the run to ease his transition. At Michigan, McCarthy excelled in a run-heavy system. Replicating that style early could give him the best shot at success as he adjusts to the pros.
The vision is clear: for the first time under O’Connell, the Vikings want to be a team that runs the ball with purpose—and has the personnel to do it.
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