“I’ll Take a Pay Cut. I’ll Prove I’m Healthy. Just Let Me Stay” — Garrett Bradbury’s Emotional Plea to Remain with the Vikings

May 25, 2025 — Minneapolis, MN

In a heartfelt message that underscores the brutal reality of NFL roster moves, veteran center Garrett Bradbury reportedly made a last-ditch plea to remain with the Minnesota Vikings earlier this offseason.

“I’ll take a pay cut. I’ll prove I’m healthy. Just let me stay,” Bradbury told team officials, according to sources close to the situation.

Bradbury, a former first-round pick in 2019, spent six seasons anchoring the Vikings’ offensive line. Known for his intelligence and athleticism at the center position, his tenure was marred at times by injuries and inconsistent play. Despite that, Bradbury remained a respected figure in the locker room and a steady presence for the team’s young offense.

However, in a move that surprised some fans, the Vikings released Bradbury in March 2025 as part of a broader effort to reshape their offensive line and manage salary cap constraints. The decision came despite Bradbury’s willingness to restructure his contract and demonstrate he was physically ready to contribute.

“He didn’t want to go. He made that very clear,” said a team insider. “Garrett was emotional. He was passionate. He truly believed he had more to give to this team.”

Bradbury’s release leaves the Vikings with a significant hole at center heading into training camp, unless a younger player steps up or the team seeks a veteran replacement. For Bradbury, the hope now is that another opportunity will emerge elsewhere in the NFL.

“He’s got a lot of football left in him,” said a former teammate. “He just needs the right team to believe in him.”

As the 2025 season approaches, Bradbury’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the human side of football — where loyalty, health, and career longevity often collide in painful ways.