EAGAN, Minn. — The evidence for Aaron Jones that the Minnesota Vikings have taken a more aggressive approach to improving their rushing attack appeared often during offseason practices and training camp.
The Vikings jumped to 11th in the NFL last season in yards per rushing attempt , the first time in four years under coach Kevin O’Connell they weren’t in the bottom quarter of the league, but after grinding through quarterback J.J. McCarthy’s rocky debut they realized they still needed more from the ground game. Fries played every game but didn’t make the impact the Vikings were anticipating after he was a priority signing in free agency. “They’re the tone setters and really what makes the whole offense go. We’re definitely looking forward to that this season.”
Left tackle Christian Darrisaw and right guard Will Fries were recovering from major injuries in 2024 and had below standard seasons. Darrisaw couldn’t get right on his reconstructed knee and only played 50% of the snaps in 2025.
“We’ve been looking really, really good in training camp, seeing the guys come off the ball and move people around up front,” wide receiver Justin Jefferson said.
The season opener on Sunday afternoon against the rival Green Bay Packers will give him another opportunity to try to beat the team that released him in 2024. The sound came first in the form of a hustling teammate making himself heard right behind him at the end of a run during full-team drills. The sight quickly followed. Jones took a pay cut to return for a third year with the Vikings, his 10th in the league.
“I look,” Jones said, “and it’s one of my offensive linemen. “I think he’s still quite the guy,” coach Matt LaFleur said. “Yes, he’s got more wear and tear, but the guy’s a dynamic player and a dynamic person, and he can really hurt you.”
