Has anyone had a more impressive year than Minnesota Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah? In a season that was expected to be a rebuilding year for the Vikings—especially after losing key players like quarterback Kirk Cousins and edge rusher Danielle Hunter, along with a staggering $70 million in dead salary cap space—the team has shocked everyone by posting an outstanding 12-2 record. With a clear path to securing the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs, the Vikings are far exceeding expectations, and much of this success can be attributed to the shrewd moves Adofo-Mensah made in the offseason.
Despite what seemed like an uphill battle, Adofo-Mensah’s strategic decisions have positioned the Vikings as one of the most formidable teams in the NFL. The team’s incredible 12-2 record is not just a testament to the hard work of the players, but more significantly, to the brilliance of Adofo-Mensah’s free-agent acquisitions. These pickups have proven to be game-changers and have played a crucial role in the Vikings’ rise to the top of the NFC.
One standout moment in the Vikings’ season came when running back Aaron Jones achieved a remarkable milestone. In a thrilling matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, Jones rushed for over 1,000 yards, a feat that only two other running backs had accomplished in their first season with the Vikings. This performance is a prime example of how Adofo-Mensah’s free-agent acquisitions have reshaped the team’s fortunes.
Jones, in particular, has been a revelation for the Vikings. One of the biggest criticisms of the team’s offense in recent seasons was the lack of a reliable running game. With Jones in the backfield, head coach Kevin O’Connell now has a running back he can depend on for consistent and impactful performances. This newfound stability in the running game has been a major factor in the team’s success and has taken pressure off the quarterback and passing game.
Jones’ 1,000-yard milestone is just one of many positive outcomes stemming from Adofo-Mensah’s offseason moves. The Vikings added several key players, including edge rushers Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Dallas Turner, linebacker Blake Cashman, cornerback Stephon Gilmore, and even quarterback Sam Darnold. These additions have provided much-needed depth and talent across multiple positions, bolstering both the defense and offense. Adofo-Mensah’s ability to identify and acquire these players has made a significant impact on the team’s overall performance.
Additionally, Adofo-Mensah was also able to secure a trade for left tackle Cam Robinson, which proved to be crucial when Christian Darrisaw went down with a season-ending knee injury. Robinson’s arrival stabilized the offensive line and allowed the team to continue functioning at a high level, despite the setback.
When looking at the Vikings’ season, it’s impossible to ignore the role that Adofo-Mensah’s moves have played in their success. The team’s remarkable turnaround—especially given the challenging circumstances they faced—shows the strength of Adofo-Mensah’s leadership and decision-making. The players he’s brought in have had a direct and lasting impact on the Vikings’ performance, and it’s clear that his vision for the team is paying off.
At this point in the season, Adofo-Mensah has more than earned the right to be considered for the NFL’s Executive of the Year award. His ability to make key acquisitions and orchestrate a roster that’s not only competitive but also playoff-bound, is a testament to his outstanding skill and foresight as a general manager. In what was supposed to be a rebuilding year, Adofo-Mensah has transformed the Vikings into one of the most dangerous teams in the NFC, and he’s done it by making smart, impactful moves that are paying off in a big way. The National Football League should seriously consider handing him the Executive of the Year award now—he’s more than earned it.
