Vikings agree to three-year contract with TE. Josh Oliver, ease Lieutenant Christian Darrisaw back into practice.

Vikings Secure Stability: Tight End Josh Oliver Signs Three-Year Deal, While Team Eases Christian Darrisaw Back into Practice

The Minnesota Vikings are taking decisive steps to stabilize their offensive unit for the seasons ahead. In a move that echoes their commitment to a strong, physical brand of football, the team has agreed to terms with tight end Josh Oliver on a three-year contract. Alongside this key signing, the team is also proceeding cautiously with the return of star left tackle Christian Darrisaw, who is being eased back into practice after injury concerns. These two developments mark critical milestones in the Vikings’ efforts to return to NFC contention.

Josh Oliver: A Vital Addition in Tight End Depth

Josh Oliver is not just another tight end signing; his arrival in Minnesota represents a clear strategy shift toward physical dominance at the line of scrimmage. Known primarily for his blocking ability, Oliver comes to the Vikings after spending time with the Baltimore Ravens, where he quietly established himself as one of the NFL’s premier blocking tight ends.

Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing around 250 pounds, Oliver offers the kind of physicality the Vikings covet in their offensive scheme, particularly in run-heavy formations. His contract, reported to be worth $21 million over three years, including $10.75 million guaranteed, reflects Minnesota’s recognition of his specialized skill set. It also underscores the importance the coaching staff places on reinforcing the offensive front, not only with linemen but also with versatile supporting players like Oliver.

Despite limited involvement as a receiver—just 14 receptions for 149 yards and two touchdowns in the 2022 season—Oliver’s true value lies in his ability to serve as a sixth offensive lineman, often sealing the edge or bulldozing lanes for backs. In Kevin O’Connell’s offensive system, where zone running plays and play-action passes are foundational, a tight end who can block at an elite level is worth his weight in gold.

“Josh gives us another dimension,” said Head Coach Kevin O’Connell during a press conference at the TCO Performance Center in Eagan. “He brings a toughness and a commitment to the dirty work that doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet, but it wins games. We want to be the kind of team that finishes every play with purpose—and Josh fits that mindset.”

Complementing T.J. Hockenson

Oliver will likely operate in tandem with star tight end T.J. Hockenson, who remains the primary receiving threat at the position. Hockenson’s ability to stretch the field and exploit mismatches in the passing game is well established, but his effectiveness can be magnified when paired with a rugged, in-line tight end like Oliver.

The Vikings’ dual tight end sets should now be more diverse and unpredictable. Opposing defenses may find themselves guessing more often—will it be a run behind Oliver, or a play-action pass to Hockenson slipping downfield?

Additionally, Oliver’s presence could prove vital in short-yardage and red-zone situations, where physical execution often determines success. If the Vikings intend to reclaim control of the NFC North, these seemingly subtle roster moves could be the tipping point.

Darrisaw’s Deliberate Return

Meanwhile, all eyes are also on left tackle Christian Darrisaw, who has become one of the NFL’s best young offensive linemen. After a breakout 2023 campaign, Darrisaw faced several nagging injuries last season that limited his availability and disrupted the offensive line’s rhythm. Now, with OTAs (Organized Team Activities) in full swing and training camp on the horizon, the Vikings are treading carefully.

According to team sources, Darrisaw is participating in individual drills but has been limited in full-team sessions. This approach is not due to any major new injury but rather a precautionary plan aimed at ensuring he’s fully healthy for the start of the 2025 season.

“We’re taking a strategic approach with Christian,” said offensive line coach Chris Kuper. “There’s no rush. He’s progressing well, and we want to make sure he’s at 100 percent. He’s a cornerstone of our line and a leader in that room.”

Darrisaw’s return is particularly critical given Minnesota’s challenging early-season schedule, which includes matchups against elite pass rushers such as Detroit’s Aidan Hutchinson and Green Bay’s Rashan Gary. A fully healthy Darrisaw is a game-changer in protecting quarterback J.J. McCarthy—who is still developing—and in opening up running lanes for backs Ty Chandler and Kene Nwangwu.

Long-Term Strategy

The Josh Oliver signing and the cautious reintegration of Christian Darrisaw signal that the Vikings are thinking long-term. While critics may have wanted splashier signings, these moves reflect a grounded and deliberate team-building philosophy. By fortifying the edges of their offensive formation—one with a rugged tight end and the other with a Pro Bowl-caliber left tackle—the Vikings are investing in football’s most fundamental principle: win the line of scrimmage.

It’s also worth noting that these decisions come at a time when the team is in flux. With longtime veterans like Kirk Cousins now gone and a younger core being developed around McCarthy, Jordan Addison, and Justin Jefferson (who recently signed a historic contract extension), Minnesota is clearly retooling, not rebuilding.

The team is positioning itself not just to compete in 2025 but to build a sustainable foundation for years to come.

Locker Room Impact

Beyond the Xs and Os, both Oliver and Darrisaw bring intangibles that are invaluable in a young locker room. Oliver is respected around the league for his work ethic and humility, while Darrisaw’s perseverance through injuries has earned admiration from teammates.

“Having guys like Josh and Christian around sets a tone,” said veteran center Garrett Bradbury. “Younger guys see what professionalism looks like. That kind of leadership is contagious.”

Indeed, for a team seeking to regain its identity after a couple of up-and-down seasons, culture is key. While offensive highlights tend to dominate the headlines, it’s the behind-the-scenes consistency, character, and preparation that often shape a team’s destiny.

Looking Ahead

The Vikings still have work to do. Training camp will provide further clarity on Darrisaw’s status, and Oliver will have to integrate quickly into a new offensive playbook. Meanwhile, questions remain about how the quarterback situation will unfold and whether the defense, which was inconsistent last year, can take a step forward under defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

But in the trenches, where games are won and lost, the outlook is strong. The left edge of the Vikings’ offensive line—with Darrisaw anchoring the tackle spot and Oliver sealing the perimeter—could be among the most formidable in the league by midseason.

Conclusion

In an era where flash often overshadows fundamentals, the Minnesota Vikings are making shrewd, purposeful moves to solidify their offense. The three-year deal with Josh Oliver and the careful reintroduction of Christian Darrisaw into practice demonstrate a commitment to trench warfare, physical dominance, and long-term health.

These moves may not make headlines in the same way as quarterback signings or flashy wide receiver trades, but their impact could be even greater. With a blend of youth, toughness, and tactical foresight, the Vikings are quietly laying the foundation for a powerful resurgence. And in a league that respects grit as much as glamour, that might just be the key to their next playoff push.