The Minnesota Vikings have consistently leaned on a three-tight-end rotation under head coach Kevin O’Connell, a strategy that has defined their offensive identity. Central to this approach was Johnny Mundt, whom O’Connell repeatedly praised as one of the NFL’s premier third tight ends. However, the Vikings’ plans took a hit this offseason when Mundt signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars, following assistant coach Grant Udinski, who took on the role of offensive coordinator. This departure leaves a glaring gap in Minnesota’s roster, particularly in their 12-personnel packages, where the third tight end plays a pivotal role. Enter Noah Fant, a recently released tight end from the Seattle Seahawks, who could be the key to unlocking the Vikings’ offensive potential and elevating them to NFL dominance.
The Gap Left by Mundt
Without Mundt, the Vikings face the prospect of entering the 2025 season with untested rookies, including two undrafted free agents, vying for the critical third tight end role. Given O’Connell’s reliance on versatile tight ends to execute his complex offensive schemes, this inexperience could hinder the team’s performance. Mundt’s ability to block, run routes, and contribute in the screen game made him a linchpin in Minnesota’s system. Replacing him with a rookie might not align with the Vikings’ ambitions to compete at the highest level.
The Seahawks have announced they have released tight end Noah Fant. Fant was due a non-guaranteed salary of $8.49 million this year and the move saves $8.91 million against the salary cap.
— Bob Condotta (@bcondotta) July 20, 2025
Noah Fant: A Forgotten Gem
On Sunday, the Seattle Seahawks made a surprising move, releasing Noah Fant and freeing up approximately $9 million in cap space. A first-round pick by the Denver Broncos in the 2019 NFL Draft, Fant was a key piece in the blockbuster Russell Wilson trade. At 27 years old, he brings a wealth of experience and untapped potential. During his three seasons with the Broncos, Fant consistently surpassed 560 receiving yards per season, showcasing his ability as a dynamic pass-catcher. While his production dipped in Seattle, his skill set as a hybrid tight end—capable of stretching the field and contributing as a blocker—makes him an intriguing fit for Minnesota.
Fant’s release presents a golden opportunity for the Vikings to bolster their offense. His familiarity with the demands of the tight end position, which requires both receiving prowess and blocking proficiency, aligns perfectly with O’Connell’s system. Unlike many tight ends who take years to adapt to the NFL’s multifaceted requirements, Fant has already shown flashes of brilliance and could thrive in a role tailored to his strengths.
A Reunion with T.J. Hockenson
Adding to the intrigue is Fant’s history with Vikings star tight end T.J. Hockenson. The two were teammates at the University of Iowa, where they sparked debates about who was the superior tight end prospect. Hockenson was lauded for his all-around game, while Fant was seen as the more explosive receiving option. Reuniting them in Minnesota could create a dynamic duo capable of overwhelming defenses.
Fant could seamlessly slide into Mundt’s role as the third tight end, potentially expanding it with his superior athleticism and pass-catching ability. His presence would enhance the Vikings’ 12-personnel formations, giving quarterback J.J. McCarthy (or the starting QB) another reliable target. Moreover, Fant’s familiarity with Hockenson could foster instant chemistry, allowing O’Connell to design creative plays that exploit their shared understanding of the game.
Elevating the Tight End Screen Game
One area where Fant could make an immediate impact is in the tight end screen game, a staple of O’Connell’s offense. Mundt was effective in this role, but Fant’s speed and elusiveness could take it to another level. His ability to gain yards after the catch would add an explosive element to Minnesota’s playbook, forcing defenses to account for both him and Hockenson in short-yardage situations. This versatility could make the Vikings’ offense unpredictable and difficult to defend.
The Financial and Strategic Fit
The biggest question is whether the Vikings can meet Fant’s expectations, both in terms of playing time and salary. As a former first-round pick, Fant may command a significant contract, but his release from Seattle suggests he could be open to a team-friendly deal to prove himself. If Minnesota can sign him at a reasonable cost, the move would be a no-brainer. Fant’s addition would not only fill the void left by Mundt but also elevate the offense to new heights, giving the Vikings a competitive edge they’ve lacked in recent seasons.
Why This Move Could Lead to NFL Dominance
The Vikings are at a crossroads, with a talented roster poised to contend but in need of a few key pieces to push them over the top. Signing Noah Fant could be the spark that transforms their offense into a juggernaut. His combination of youth, experience, and chemistry with Hockenson makes him an ideal fit for O’Connell’s system. By maximizing Fant “