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Blake Brandel has a 'clear path' to the starting center job in 2026
TL;DR
Blake Brandel has a clear opportunity to secure the starting center position for the Minnesota Vikings in 2026, following the team's draft strategy that supports his potential. His versatility and familiarity with the system position him well for the role.
Key points
- Blake Brandel has played both guard and center for the Vikings.
- The Vikings did not draft a center, indicating trust in Brandel.
- Brandel's versatility and system knowledge make him a strong candidate.
Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings have made it a point to have their offensive line in place for whoever is under center on a year-to-year basis. They have been heavily invested in the positions in free agency and in the NFL Draft, but they have also found some pieces in UDFA classes. Blake Brandel has played both guard and center for the team, but has never been able to secure a starting job while with the team.
However, that may have changed with the team's draft picks and free-agent moves heading into OTAs.
The Athletic's Alec Lewis wrote up winners and losers for the Vikings coming out of the NFL Draft, and he mentions Brandel among the winners. He writes, "The Vikings could have selected a center in the early rounds of the draft, but they didn’t. Instead, the team doubled down on its long-held belief in Brandel. For years, coaches felt he had the physical traits to play center. They thought he could thrive if he ever got the full-time job. . .As long as he doesn’t suffer a summer injury, he should enter training camp with a clear path to the starting job."
The offensive line was going to take a hit with the retirement of Ryan Kelly, but Brandel stepping in seems to be the best-case scenario. As we mentioned, Brandel is a versatile piece on the offensive line and knows the system, so it makes sense that Kevin O'Connell is sticking with him for 2026.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: The Vikings seem to be set at center heading into 2026
Q&A
What factors contribute to Blake Brandel's chance of starting as center in 2026?
Brandel's chance is bolstered by the Vikings' decision not to draft a center, indicating their confidence in his abilities and the need for a versatile player on the offensive line.
Who is Blake Brandel and what positions has he played for the Vikings?
Blake Brandel is an offensive lineman for the Minnesota Vikings who has played both guard and center during his time with the team.
What impact does Ryan Kelly's retirement have on the Vikings' offensive line?
Ryan Kelly's retirement creates a gap in the offensive line, making Brandel's potential promotion to starting center a crucial move for the team's stability.