As we move closer to the next stage of the offseason, we want to ensure there is a complete preview of the Vikings heading into 2026. So to achieve that, we will be doing free agent previews for notable players the team will have on the market in the coming weeks.
In this piece, we will be previewing long-snapper Andrew DePaola.
The Vikings' free agency will be both interesting and pivotal to their success in 2026. As they look for a new general manager after the NFL Draft, the interim role will fall on Rob Brzezinski. With not much salary cap space, it makes discussing free agency that much more of a tightrope act than before.
So with the table set, here is a free agent preview.
Background
- College: Ohio State
- Year Drafted: 2012 (Undrafted)
- Notable Achievements: 3x Pro Bowler and 4x All-Pro
Notable 2025 Statistics
- Played in all 17 games
Projected Contract Value
- $1.3 Million (per Over the Cap)
Player Summary
While never getting the respect they deserve, special teams players deserve everyone's attention and respect. Long-snappers, especially, if they get out of routine by a centimeter, the entire kicking process is thrown off, and it can result in a loss of points or a muffed punt, flipping the field for their opponent. Time and again, Andrew DePaola has showcased himself to be one of the best, if not the best, at his position, and the Vikings would be wise to bring him back to maintain their special teams excellence.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 2026 Vikings free agent preview: Long-snapper Andrew DePaola