This week, the Minnesota Vikings’ front office has come under fire when general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah justified the team’s choice to give newly signed edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel, who recorded 11.5 sacks in the 2023 season, a one-year, $23 million extension.
When the transaction was revealed on Monday, it quickly caused controversy among fans and critics, with many wondering if Van Ginkel’s production was worth the high price. In a press conference on Tuesday evening, Adofo-Mensah openly responded to the criticism, referring to Van Ginkel as “a tone-setter and a culture fit we’re willing to invest in.”
However, not everyone is persuaded.
One fan posted on X (previously Twitter) that you don’t spend that much for 11.5 sacks.
“That’s elite-tier money for mid-tier production.” Others contended that, given that rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy is anticipated to contend for the starting position this fall, the Vikings may have utilized the cap room to address pressing requirements at offensive line or cornerback.
By highlighting Van Ginkel’s adaptability, leadership, and fit in Brian Flores’ defensive plan, Adofo-Mensah pushed back on the narrative. “It goes beyond sacks. It’s the accountability, the pressure, and the disruption he brings to the locker room,” he stated. “Statics are not the only thing you pay for.”
After a stellar season with the Dolphins, Van Ginkel joined the Vikings this summer. He did not comment on the criticism, but he did send out a brief statement via his agency saying, “Ready to work.” Come on, let’s win.
Fans are questioning whether the front office is meeting its own expectations, though, given the deal’s timing and optics as well as the team’s strong promotion of the “More Is Required” slogan this summer.
One local radio broadcaster questioned Wednesday morning, “Why are we overpaying for average if more is needed?” “Those with double-digit sacks in consecutive years could have benefited from that money.”
But the Vikings are placing a wager that Van Ginkel’s influence will go beyond the box office results. One of the most talked-about plotlines leading up to OTAs is whether that gamble pays off or backfires.
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