Growing up with the last name Fries, the variety of nicknames like “Spud” are to be expected, and that’s exactly the moniker Ryan Kelly bestowed upon Will Fries when he was picked by the Colts in the 2021 draft. It might seem playful, but this nickname marks the rise of a player who was one of the final picks (248th overall) and has now stormed his way to becoming the top right guard available in the 2025 free-agent class. Now wearing purple and gold, Fries is set to fix a decade-long void in the Minnesota Vikings’ lineup, offering a mix of power and skill reminiscent of the franchise’s best years.

Let’s dig into what makes Fries a standout. The Colts’ playbook is heavy on gap-scheme runs, and Fries thrives in this environment, excelling in the double-team blocks often seen with center Ryan Kelly or tackle Braden Smith.

One noteworthy play featured Fries almost sweeping Montez Sweat off the field. It’s marvelous to witness as he launches into the defender with well-timed power, proceeding to drive Sweat backward, essentially resetting the line of scrimmage.

Although Braden Smith contributes, in this scenario, it was Fries’ force on full display. Fries initiated contact and held firm, something that looks less like sheer power with strategic angles and leverage. Whether pushing back a nose tackle four yards on a goal-line stance or relocating a defensive tackle from one hash mark to nearly the numbers, Fries doesn’t just block defenders; he relocates them.

Beyond brute strength, his nimble footwork allows a seamless transition to Minnesota’s zone blocking scheme. On wide zone runs, his burst off the line enables him to reach fast edge rushers, finishing moves by planting defenders into the turf. In one remarkable display against Kenny Clark, a crafty slant by the defense played right into Fries’ hands; he easily sealed his opponent, showing adaptability and the ability to not overrun blocks.

Something linemen covet in modern offenses is the capacity to climb to the next level, sealing off linebackers and defensive backs. Here, Fries doesn’t disappoint.

His clip against T.J. Edwards highlights his capability to outrun and then seal off defenders, paving alleyways for Jonathan Taylor to exploit.

It’s not just a standout performance but a consistent trait, as evidenced by multiple plays showcasing his agility to engage defenders downfield.

Now onto pass protection. Fries melds his run-blocking power into stopping pass rushers cold.

His ability to anchor and leverage through hop techniques repels defenders like Gervon Dexter, ensuring they can’t disrupt the quarterback. With quick, smart hand movements, he neutralizes inside threats and lashes back control even if he oversets a little.

Fries is competent with his outside edge protection too, sometimes seeming to herd rushers harmlessly past the quarterback, showing intelligence and dexterity to adjust mid-rep. Take Kenny Clark, for instance, who tried to make Fries the victim of a bull rush; yet, Fries ended up pancaking him instead, turning what appeared to be a defensive win into a highlight reel for his offensive line coach.

While he sometimes shows vulnerability to inside moves due to his external set, Fries’ recovery speed often overtakes potential blunders, correcting any minor missteps and keeping the pocket clean. Even when there’s a drift caused by a mobile quarterback like Anthony Richardson, Fries ensures these perceived pressures only look significant due to the pocket’s movement, rather than any lapse in his blocking performance.

As Minnesota looks to bolster its offensive front, Will Fries promises not just to fill the gaps but to redefine how guard play is executed. If you’re a Vikings fan, the anticipation of what this talented lineman can contribute over the next few seasons should have you excited. Think of him as a cornerstone for not just building the line, but anchoring a new era of consistency and excellence.