Minnesota Vikings Part Ways with General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah

The Minnesota Vikings announced on Friday that general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has been relieved of his duties following a 9-8 season.

Rob Brzezinski, Vice President of Football Operations, will oversee the team's operations until the NFL Draft in April. The franchise plans to search for a new general manager after the draft.

Co-owners Mark and Zygi Wilf stated that the decision reflects the team's ongoing commitment to contending for a championship.

"The decision reflects the team's ongoing commitment to contending for a championship."

Adofo-Mensah, 44, was initially hired in 2022, and his contract was extended last offseason. This move indicates the organization's desire for new leadership in the football operations department, working alongside head coach Kevin O’Connell.

Factors Contributing to the Decision

NFL Draft Performance

Perceived misses in the NFL Draft were cited as a significant factor. Only one of Adofo-Mensah’s 10 picks from his first draft became a full-time starter, and only two from that class remain with the team.

While recent drafts have produced players like wide receiver Jordan Addison, kicker Will Reichard, and left guard Donovan Jackson, and others like quarterback J.J. McCarthy and edge rusher Dallas Turner have shown potential, ownership determined the overall standard was not met.

Free Agency Acquisitions

Additionally, the team's free agency acquisitions this season were cited as an issue. There was a focus on older veterans such as defensive tackles Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen, and center Ryan Kelly.

The team acquired Sam Howell as a backup quarterback after failing to secure Daniel Jones, and Howell was later traded after struggling in training camp. The Vikings also opted against signing Aaron Rodgers, who reportedly expressed interest.

Adofo-Mensah's Tenure Overview

During Adofo-Mensah’s four-year tenure, the Vikings finished with a 43-25 record but did not secure a playoff win. The team made various changes, transitioning from quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and Sam Darnold to J.J. McCarthy.

He also executed multiple significant trades, including acquiring tight end T.J. Hockenson, left tackle Cam Robinson, and quarterback Josh Dobbs.