BB.UNDER-THE-RADAR: The Vikings’ Bye-Week Heist Is Complete — Their New 1,000-Yard “Baby Gronk” Could Be the League’s Next Nightmare

The Minnesota Vikings, under the strategic guidance of head coach Kevin O’Connell, have quietly made significant roster moves during their bye week, positioning themselves for a strong push in the second half of the 2025 NFL season. In a series of under-the-radar transactions, the Vikings have re-signed veteran tight end Nick Vannett to their practice squad, alongside other key additions, signaling a calculated approach to bolstering their depth. With Vannett’s experience and a career tally of over 1,000 receiving yards, the Vikings may have secured a secret weapon in their quest to challenge the NFL’s elite, starting with their Week 7 matchup against the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.

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Nick Vannett: The “Baby Gronk” Returns

Nick Vannett, a 32-year-old tight end nicknamed “Baby Gronk” for his physical playing style reminiscent of legendary tight end Rob Gronkowski, brings a wealth of experience to Minnesota’s roster. Originally a third-round pick (No. 94 overall) by the Seattle Seahawks in the 2016 NFL Draft, Vannett has carved out a nine-year career across multiple teams, including the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Tennessee Titans. His career stats—108 receptions, 1,012 yards, and 9 touchdowns—highlight his reliability as a pass-catcher and blocker.

Vannett initially joined the Vikings in August 2025 before being released on October 6, as the team entered their bye week. However, in a surprising move, Minnesota re-signed him to the practice squad on Thursday, October 9, recognizing his value as a veteran presence. Though he has yet to record a catch this season, appearing in three games with just four offensive snaps, Vannett’s return strengthens the Vikings’ tight end room, which already features two-time Pro Bowler T.J. Hockenson and dependable backup Josh Oliver.

“Vannett’s experience and versatility make him a low-key asset,” an NFL analyst noted on X. “He’s not going to light up the stat sheet, but his ability to block and make clutch catches could be critical in tight games.”

Practice Squad Shuffle: Vershon Lee and Matt Waletzko

Vannett wasn’t the only player to see movement during the Vikings’ bye week. The team also re-signed offensive lineman Vershon Lee to the practice squad on Wednesday, October 8, after waiving him earlier in the week. Lee, a former undrafted free agent, played four special teams snaps in Minnesota’s win over the Cleveland Browns. His return adds depth to an offensive line dealing with significant injury concerns, with four starters, including center Ryan Kelly (on injured reserve), listed on the injury report.

To make room for Lee, the Vikings released former Dallas Cowboys fifth-round pick Matt Waletzko from their practice squad on Tuesday. Waletzko, who had been with Minnesota on the practice squad, was let go to accommodate the returning Lee. These moves reflect O’Connell’s focus on maintaining flexibility and depth, particularly on the offensive line, as the team prepares for a grueling stretch of games.

Bye Week Timing and Quarterback Clarity

The Vikings’ bye week arrived at a critical juncture, allowing the team to address injuries and refine their roster. Most notably, starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy, sidelined for the past three games due to an ankle injury, is nearing a return. In his absence, veteran Carson Wentz has performed admirably, keeping the Vikings competitive. However, McCarthy is expected to reclaim his QB1 role once cleared, potentially as early as Week 7 against the Eagles.

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“McCarthy’s return could be a game-changer,” a Vikings insider posted on X. “With Wentz holding down the fort, the team has stayed in the hunt, but McCarthy’s mobility and arm talent are what O’Connell’s offense was built around.”

The combination of McCarthy’s potential return and the re-addition of experienced players like Vannett and Lee suggests the Vikings are gearing up for a playoff push. While neither Vannett nor Lee is likely to see significant playing time barring injuries, their presence provides insurance and versatility, allowing Minnesota to navigate the physical demands of the season.

Though Vannett’s role may seem minor, his “Baby Gronk” moniker carries weight. His ability to contribute in both the passing and running game makes him a valuable situational player. In a tight end room led by Hockenson and Oliver, Vannett’s experience could shine in specific packages, particularly in short-yardage or red-zone situations where his blocking and reliable hands can make a difference.

“Vannett is the kind of player who doesn’t need the spotlight to impact a game,” a former Seahawks coach remarked. “He’s a team-first guy who does the dirty work, and that’s invaluable for a contending team like the Vikings.”

As the Vikings prepare to face the Eagles, Vannett’s re-signing could prove to be a sneaky, yet impactful, move. With a career spanning nearly a decade and over 1,000 receiving yards, he’s a proven commodity who could emerge as a clutch performer in critical moments.

The Vikings’ bye-week moves, while subtle, reflect a strategic approach to roster management. By bringing back Vannett and Lee while managing injuries to key starters, O’Connell and the front office have ensured the team remains deep and adaptable. As they gear up for a high-stakes clash with the Eagles, the Vikings’ under-the-radar additions could prove to be the difference-makers in a tightly contested NFC.

With “Baby Gronk” back in the fold and McCarthy potentially returning under center, Minnesota’s bye-week heist may have set the stage for a breakout second half. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if these moves translate into on-field success.