KEY POINTS
- Minnesota Vikings dismiss GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah after four years, appointing Rob Brzezinski as interim football operations leader.
- Decision occurs less than three months before the 2026 NFL draft, raising questions about draft preparation and team strategy.
- Team owners Mark and Zygi Wilf emphasize the pursuit of sustained championship contention and a thorough search for the next GM.
MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Vikings have fired general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, the team announced Friday, marking a significant leadership change less than three months before the NFL draft.
The move follows a series of annual organizational meetings and comes shortly after the conclusion of the Vikings’ 2025 regular season.
The Vikings hired Adofo-Mensah in 2022 alongside head coach Kevin O’Connell. Less than a year ago, the team extended his contract, reflecting confidence in his vision for the organization.
However, team owners Mark and Zygi Wilf cited the need for “new leadership of our football operations” following recent internal reviews.
Adofo-Mensah, 38, previously served as an executive with the San Francisco 49ers and Cleveland Browns before joining the Vikings.
During his tenure, the Vikings made notable roster moves, including key draft selections and free agent acquisitions, aiming to solidify the franchise’s competitiveness. Yet Minnesota finished the 2025 season with an 8-8 record, falling short of playoff contention.
Rob Brzezinski, the team’s executive vice president of football operations, will oversee operations until a permanent general manager is hired.
The Wilfs plan to conduct a comprehensive search after the draft, signaling a deliberate approach to identifying leadership capable of steering the franchise toward sustained success.
“The timing suggests the organization is prioritizing strategic control over immediate continuity,” said Dan Duggan, NFL analyst and senior writer for The Athletic.
“Having an interim leader allows the Vikings to maintain operational stability while evaluating candidates with long-term potential.”
Dr. Melissa Anderson, professor of sports management at the University of Minnesota, noted, “Midseason or post season firings are often about signaling a culture shift.
The Wilfs appear focused on aligning management philosophy with their championship ambitions.”
Veteran sports journalist Liz Clarke of The Washington Post highlighted the impact “Adofo-Mensah’s departure reflects the Vikings’ impatience with incremental progress. Fans and stakeholders expect more decisive results.”
Vikings linebacker Danielle Hunter added, “Transitions like this are tough, but the organization’s focus on future success is clear. We respect Kwesi and his contributions.”
The Vikings now face a condensed period before the 2026 NFL draft, with interim leadership tasked with managing scouting, contract negotiations, and draft strategy.
The eventual GM selection will be critical in shaping the team’s trajectory for the next five years.
The decision underscores the high-stakes environment of NFL front office operations, where organizational alignment, strategic vision, and immediate results often intersect.
As Minnesota searches for a permanent leader, stakeholders will closely monitor the team’s draft decisions and offseason moves.
NOTE! This article was generated with the support of AI and compiled by professionals from multiple reliable sources, including official statements, press releases, and verified media coverage. For more information, please see our T&C.
