Kellen Mond’s Fresh Start: Can the Former Vikings Quarterback Revive His Career in the UFL?

A New Beginning in the United Football League

Kellen Mond, once seen as a potential future starter in the NFL, is embarking on a new chapter in his football career. The former Minnesota Vikings quarterback has been named the starting quarterback for the San Antonio Brahmas in the United Football League (UFL), giving him a fresh opportunity to prove himself on a professional stage.

A Rocky Start in the NFL

Mond’s NFL journey began in 2021 when the Minnesota Vikings selected him with the 66th overall pick in the third round of the NFL Draft. The pick was met with skepticism, particularly from then-head coach Mike Zimmer, who reportedly was not in favor of the selection. Mond’s time in Minnesota was brief, as he played in just one game during his rookie season. In that outing, a late-season loss to the Green Bay Packers, Mond completed two of three passes for a mere five yards. Zimmer’s infamous response when asked if he wanted to see more of Mond—“I see him every day”—only reinforced the notion that the young quarterback was not in the team’s future plans.

A Nomadic Journey Through the NFL

Following the departure of both Zimmer and general manager Rick Spielman, Mond was quickly waived by the Vikings in August 2022. He then bounced between teams, spending time with the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, and New Orleans Saints over the next three seasons. However, he never found a long-term home or saw meaningful playing time in the NFL.

A Second Chance with San Antonio

After struggling to secure a roster spot in the NFL, Mond took a different route to keep his football dreams alive. In October 2024, he signed with the UFL’s San Antonio Brahmas, a move that now presents him with the chance to resurrect his career. Unlike his previous stints where he was buried on depth charts, Mond will enter the UFL season as a starting quarterback, allowing him to showcase his skills on a consistent basis.

What This Opportunity Means for Mond

For Mond, this starting role with the Brahmas is more than just another stop in his career—it is a crucial turning point. The UFL has become a proving ground for players looking to return to the NFL, and strong performances in this league could open doors for him to make a comeback. Several quarterbacks, including the likes of P.J. Walker and Taylor Heinicke, have used similar opportunities to find their way back into the NFL. If Mond can demonstrate improved decision-making, accuracy, and leadership, he may attract attention from NFL teams in need of a backup or developmental quarterback.

A Glimpse at the Road Ahead

As Mond prepares for the UFL season, all eyes will be on how he adapts to a full-time starting role. The Brahmas will provide him with a platform to refine his game, face quality competition, and prove that he still belongs at the professional level. Whether this opportunity leads him back to the NFL or helps him carve out a long-term career in the UFL, one thing is certain—Mond’s journey is far from over.