The Las Vegas Raiders appear to have finally found their rhythm. Under new general manager John Spytek, the team has impressed during free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft, signaling a fresh start for the franchise. But while the Raiders look ahead, one of their former front office figures could be on the verge of a second chance at the ultimate job.

Dave Ziegler, the former Raiders GM who was part of the ill-fated Josh McDaniels regime, is reportedly a candidate for the Minnesota Vikings' vacant general manager position. Ziegler's tenure in Las Vegas was marked by struggles, including the failure to secure a franchise quarterback after moving on from Derek Carr—a void the team has yet to fill.

According to Alec Lewis of The Athletic, the Vikings have a shortlist of candidates that includes Ziegler, who now serves as assistant GM for the Tennessee Titans. He's joined by a group of rising personnel executives: Rob Brzezinski (Vikings), Terrance Gray (Bills), R.J. Gillen (49ers), John McKay (Rams), Nolan Teasley (Seahawks), and Chad Alexander (Chargers).

Interestingly, rumors have circulated that Ziegler wanted to draft C.J. Stroud during his time with the Raiders, but was overruled by McDaniels. If true, that decision highlights a critical misstep—and perhaps a lesson learned. The Vikings may believe Ziegler's second time around could be different, and with a more collaborative environment, he might finally get the chance to build a winner.

For Raiders fans, seeing a former executive get another shot is a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NFL. And for the rest of the league, it's a story of redemption waiting to be written.