Join Two Old Bloggers as Darren Campbell & Dave Stefano analyze the Vikings’ 2025 roster, camp battles, and QB history. They predict the final 53-man roster by looking at roster holes, examine key position competitions, and discuss Jordan Addison’s legal situation and Wes Phillips’ contract extension. The hosts also compare second-year Vikings quarterbacks historically to set expectations for J.J. McCarthy’s upcoming season.
As the Minnesota Vikings gear up for the 2025 season, Two Old Bloggers with Darren Campbell and Dave Stefano on Vikings 1st & SKOL, delivers a must-listen episode for SKOL Nation. With mini-camp in the rearview and training camp looming, the hosts unpack the near-finalized 53-man roster, spotlighting minimal positional battles and a Vikings Vault segment revisiting second-year quarterbacks like Teddy Bridgewater and Daunte Culpepper. From Jordan Addison’s legal drama to J.J. McCarthy’s potential, this episode is packed with insights that every Vikings fan in Minneapolis, Eagan, and beyond needs to hear.
For over two decades, Campbell and Stefano have been the voice of Vikings fandom, blending passion with sharp analysis. This episode, featured on the Daily Norseman, dives into the team’s roster stability, a stark contrast to past years’ uncertainty. The hosts also tackle hot topics like Adrian Peterson’s off-field issues and Brian Flores’ contract status, while offering a historical lens on how second-year QBs have shaped the franchise. Whether you’re dreaming of tailgating at U.S. Bank Stadium or streaming from afar, this episode is your ticket to staying ahead of the 2025 Vikings buzz.
Episode Summary: Key Points
Vikings 53-Man Roster Stability:
- The 2025 roster is nearly set, with minimal starting battles, signaling depth and confidence.
- Left guard pits rookie Donovan Jackson against Blake Brandel, with Jackson favored unless he falters significantly.
- The third/nickel corner spot is contested between Jeff Okudah and Mekhi Blackmon, with Isaiah Rodgers starting opposite Byron Murphy Jr..
- Backup battles include fifth wide receiver, fourth linebacker (Brian Asamoah vs. Kobe King), fifth corner (Dwight McGlothern or Zemaiah Vaughn), third tight end (Gavin Bartholomew vs. Ben Yurosek), and fourth/fifth edge rushers (Bo Richter, Gabe Murphy, or Tyler Batty).
- Roster certainty allows Kevin O’Connell to focus on system installs, boosting 2025 prospects.
This Week in Vikingsland:
- Training camp schedule announced: rookies report July 20, veterans July 22, with 12 public practices starting July 26.
- Key questions: Can J.J. McCarthy be a true franchise QB? Are Will Fries, Ryan Kelly, Jonathan Allen, and Javon Hargrave worth their contracts?
- Jordan Addison’s DUI trial is set for July 15, 2025; a potential three-game suspension could elevate Jalen Nailor, Tai Felton, or Rondale Moore.
- Wes Phillips signed a one-year extension through 2026, but Brian Flores’ lack of an extension raises concerns about his future.
- Adrian Peterson’s recent fist-fight and past arrests spark debate about his ties to the Vikings brand.
Vikings Vault: Second-Year QBs:
- Teddy Bridgewater (2015): 3,231 yards, 14 TDs, led 11-5 team to NFC North title with a run-heavy offense.
- Christian Ponder (2012): 2,935 yards, 18 TDs, powered 10-6 playoff team, aided by Adrian Peterson’s 2,000-yard season.
- Daunte Culpepper (2000): 3,937 yards, 33 TDs, reached NFC Championship Game with a potent offense.
- Tarvaris Jackson (2007): 1,911 yards, 9 TDs, went 8-4 in 12 starts, reliant on running game.
- McCarthy, like Culpepper, sat his rookie year, entering 2025 with a stronger roster than his predecessors.
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Why SKOL Nation Should Tune In
SKOL Nation, Two Old Bloggers is your ultimate Vikings fix, blending roster breakdowns, breaking news, and nostalgic dives into franchise history. Darren and Dave’s chemistry and deep knowledge make every episode a touchdown for fans craving insider insights. Subscribe to Vikings 1st & SKOL and join the Fans First Sports Network to fuel your purple pride as training camp heats up. Don’t miss out—catch this episode on the Daily Norseman and stay locked in for the 2025 season! #Vikings
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We have your Minnesota Vikings talk amongst the Two Old Bloggers, Darren @KickassblogVike, and Dave @Luft_Krigare. Join the conversation! Fan with us at Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and with our podcast partner Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN where you get sports takes for the fan, from the fan!
Open Question:
Who do you think will win the Vikings’ third cornerback spot—Jeff Okudah or Mekhi Blackmon? Share your take in the comments!
