The Minnesota Vikings are going into a new era in 2025, again. Last season, Minnesota moved on from Kirk Cousins in favor of Sam Darnold. This year, Darnold is being replaced by JJ McCarthy.
However, it’s a different star that had to say goodbye to the team.
“I’ll Never Forget It” Vikings Star Suddenly Bashes Weather; Announces He’s Leaving Team
According to Trevor Squire of Athon Sports:
“How to make an NFL roster in seven seconds:” the masterclass Minnesota Vikings cornerback Najee Thompson put on in his first preseason game as an undrafted rookie in 2023.
The former state champion sprinter scorched downfield and snared a Seattle Seahawks punt return at the point of the catch. It was seven seconds that secured Thompson’s role as Minnesota’s special teams ace two years ago.
How to make an NFL roster in seven seconds.pic.twitter.com/yKrsYSRR2f
— Brett Kollmann (@BrettKollmann) August 11, 2023
He popped with several meaningful plays as a gunner several times throughout his rookie year, including a forced fumble and recovery that gave the Vikings life in an otherwise demoralizing late-season loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Thompson claimed the role as special teams ace with his effort no matter the score. However, injuries ultimately ended Thompson’s time in Minnesota.
After missing the entire 2024 season with a knee injury, Thompson failed a team physical in April and was waived from the team.
While Thompson has reacted to the tough news before, he seemed to be holding onto some hope of a return before ultimately issuing an official farewell on June 6.
“It’s surreal. Thank you all for making the first part of my dream something. I’ll never forget and very grateful to have the opportunity here,” he wrote. “But so long, Minnesota. Officially outta here and to the cold weather you will be the only thing not missed but on to new beginnings.”
Without Thompson for the 2024 season, the Vikings deployed wide receiver Trent Sherfield for the gunner role.
Sherfield signed with the Denver Broncos in the offseason, prompting the Vikings to sign former Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Tavierre Thomas, who is assumed to fill a prominent role on special teams this season.
