In a surprising development, the Minnesota Vikings have parted ways with general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, as reported by Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network. Adofo-Mensah, who was 44, had been with the Vikings since 2022.
The team’s official statement highlighted the tough decision, acknowledging Adofo-Mensah’s contributions while emphasizing the need for a change in leadership. Rob Brzezinski, the executive vice president, will serve as the interim GM while the Vikings look for a permanent replacement.
This decision comes shortly after Adofo-Mensah received a contract extension last May. Unfortunately, the Vikings finished the 2023 season at 9-8, missing the playoffs. Sources indicate that there was internal tension leading up to Adofo-Mensah’s firing, with reports of strained relationships within the organization.
Adofo-Mensah joined the Vikings after a successful stint with the San Francisco 49ers and Cleveland Browns. His first significant move was hiring head coach Kevin O’Connell. Together, they led the Vikings to a 13-4 record in their first season but faced disappointment in the playoffs. The following season saw the team decline to 7-10, leading to the departure of longtime quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Cousins signed a lucrative deal with the Atlanta Falcons, prompting the Vikings to acquire veteran quarterback Sam Darnold and draft Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy. Unfortunately, McCarthy’s rookie season was marred by injuries, which negatively impacted the team’s performance.
Adofo-Mensah’s draft record has also come under scrutiny. From 2022 to 2025, players he drafted only made 172 starts, the second-fewest in the league during that time. Notably, none of his drafted players have earned Pro Bowl honors.
Looking ahead, the Vikings aim for improvement as they prepare for the upcoming draft under Brzezinski’s guidance. The team’s future trajectory will depend on their ability to make better personnel decisions and improve their quarterback play.
Overall, these changes reflect the high stakes in the NFL, where performance can lead to swift consequences. As the Vikings turn a new page, fans will be eager to see how the new leadership shapes the team’s future.
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