Vikings request an interview with 49ers assistant GM for vacant GM job

The Vikings have requested an interview with 49ers assistant general manager RJ Gillen as Minnesota continues its search for a new general manager. Coincidentally, Minnesota's former GM, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, rejoined the San Francisco 49ers in late February as an executive.

Gillen has quietly built a strong reputation around the league during his time in San Francisco, helping construct one of the NFL's deepest and most consistently competitive rosters. The 49ers have become known for their aggressive roster-building philosophy, elite player development, and ability to consistently uncover impact talent throughout the draft and free agency.

Gillen is in his 11th season with the 49ers and first as assistant general manager. He spent the previous two seasons (2023-24) as director of player personnel and three seasons (2021-23) as director of pro personnel after serving five years as a pro personnel scout. He joined the 49ers as an assistant in the scouting department from 2015 16.

In his role, Gillen oversees and manages the daily operations of the player personnel department and advises General Manager John Lynch and Head Coach Kyle Shanahan on personnel decisions and team-building strategies. Gillen helps prepare the club for acquisitions throughout the year through his pro and college player evaluations and assistance in constructing the pro free agency and college draft boards.

That success has naturally elevated the profiles of executives throughout the organization.

Before joining San Francisco, Gillen spent time with the Jacksonville Jaguars and previously worked in scouting roles that helped shape his personnel background. With the 49ers, he has played an important role alongside general manager John Lynch in building a roster capable of sustained playoff success in the NFC.

Minnesota's interest in Gillen also reflects the broader league trend of targeting executives connected to stable, winning organizations. The Vikings appear focused on finding a leader who can balance immediate competitiveness with long-term roster sustainability as the franchise continues to build around its young core.