The Minnesota Vikings are casting a wide net in their search for a new general manager, and the latest additions to their candidate list send a clear message about the direction they're heading. After initially announcing seven candidates, the team has now requested interviews with three more front-office executives, bringing an intriguing mix of experience and familiarity to the table.
The original list featured a strong group of assistant general managers from across the league, including Terrance Gray (Buffalo Bills), Chad Alexander (Los Angeles Chargers), John McKay (Los Angeles Rams), R.J. Gillan (San Francisco 49ers), Dave Ziegler (Tennessee Titans), and Nolan Teasley (Seattle Seahawks). But Tuesday's new requests have added even more depth to an already impressive search.
The three new names are Kyle Smith (Miami Dolphins assistant general manager), Reed Burckhardt (Denver Broncos assistant general manager), and a particularly intriguing candidate: a front-office executive with ties to head coach Kevin O'Connell. This latest addition spent five years helping transform the Detroit Lions organization and previously worked alongside O'Connell with the Los Angeles Rams in 2020, when O'Connell served as offensive coordinator.
Burckhardt's inclusion makes perfect sense given his deep roots in Minnesota. He spent 13 years with the Vikings before joining the Broncos, and Denver general manager George Paton—who was heavily considered for this role—recently signed an extension. Interviewing his right-hand man feels like a natural next step.
Smith also has a unique connection to the Vikings, having spent time with the team during training camp in 2006 as a wide receiver. He later served as the Atlanta Falcons' Vice President of Player Personnel from 2021-2022 before being promoted to assistant general manager in 2023. He held that role for three seasons before Atlanta's front-office overhaul this past year.
As the Vikings continue their expansive search, the focus remains on finding a leader who can build a championship-caliber roster while working seamlessly alongside O'Connell. With each new candidate, the picture becomes clearer—and more exciting for fans eager to see what's next in Minnesota.