8 realistic candidates to be the next Vikings general manager
By Dean Jones
Who could potentially be the next general manager of the Minnesota Vikings after the team parted ways with Rick Spielman?
It didn’t take a genius to figure out that change was coming within the Minnesota Vikings this offseason. The team missed the playoffs for the second straight year, and although head coach Mike Zimmer’s departure was expected, ownership took this opportunity to start completely afresh and also remove general manager Rick Spielman from the equation.
Spielman has been part of the fabric since 2006 as both vice president of player personnel and general manager – a position he’s held since 2012. He’s been largely successful despite the Vikings not ever reaching a Super Bowl, but things became a bit stale over the last two years, and it’s evident a change in direction was needed.
What comes next for Minnesota is unclear. There is a sense of excitement regarding a new beginning, but it might be some time before the Vikings enter legitimate playoff contention while a different regime finds its feet in 2022 and possibly beyond.
With this in mind, here are eight potential general manager candidates to replace Spielman this offseason.
Candidate No. 1
Adrian Wilson
A fierce safety in his playing days with the Arizona Cardinals, Adrian Wilson has been rising up the scouting ranks and is a name to watch this offseason regarding any potential general manager vacancy.
A lack of front office experience could be an issue where Wilson is concerned, but he knows what talent looks like and might be tempted by the Vikings considering the quality already on the roster.
This would certainly raise some eyebrows. However, the Vikings might not get a better chance to contemplate a gamble like this in pursuit of getting back on the right path.