Breaking; Vikings Make SHOCKING Hire: Controversial O-Line Coach Keith Carter Joins Minnesota! Falcons Double Down on Kirk Cousins – What’s Next for Both Teams?

**Vikings Hire Keith Carter as Assistant Offensive Line Coach Amid Mixed Reviews**

The Minnesota Vikings have added **Keith Carter** as their new assistant offensive line coach, filling the void left by **Shaun Sarrett**, who departed for a promotion with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Carter, 42, brings a wealth of experience, having spent the last two years as the New York Jets’ offensive line coach and five years in the same role with the Tennessee Titans.

However, Carter’s hiring comes with some controversy. Last year, former Titans tackle **Taylor Lewan** publicly criticized Carter on social media after ex-Titans head coach **Mike Vrabel** was fired, writing, *“I loved his coaching staff (besides Keith Carter).”* Former Jets tackle **Mekhi Becton** and ex-Falcons fullback **Patrick DiMarco** echoed Lewan’s sentiments in the comments.

Despite the mixed reviews, Vikings head coach **Kevin O’Connell** is confident Carter is the right fit for the role. O’Connell described Carter as a *“tough, kind of gritty guy”* who will bring valuable experience to the Vikings’ offensive line room. Carter’s primary focus will be improving a run game that ranked 23rd in yards per carry last season.

*“A former No. 1 [offensive line coach] that’s been involved in some of the best rushing attacks over the last four, five, six years,”* O’Connell said. *“He’s at a great time in his career where he really wanted to come to Minnesota. I really think he’s going to be able to help us a lot, infuse some things into our run game.”*

O’Connell acknowledged Carter’s reputation for being tough on players but believes his intensity will be an asset in a secondary role. *“You’ll find some things about him in regards to being tough on his players. But I think in the No. 2 role, he’s going to be really good for us.”*

Carter’s familiarity with the Vikings’ offensive terminology, having worked in similar systems, should also help him hit the ground running. The Vikings are banking on Carter’s experience and grit to elevate their offensive line and run game in 2025.