In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Minnesota Vikings fanbase, General Manager Henrique Gucciardi has unveiled his official 53-man roster — and the internet is in meltdown mode.
Gucciardi, known for his aggressive roster management and no-nonsense attitude, made several bold, and some say reckless, decisions that have left both fans and analysts scrambling for answers. While trimming a roster is always difficult, this year’s cuts have redefined the word controversial.
The Big Cut: Alexander Mattison OUT
The biggest shock of all? Running back Alexander Mattison has been released. Once considered the natural successor to Dalvin Cook, Mattison’s production dipped significantly in 2024. Still, few expected the Vikings to cut ties with the 26-year-old back, especially with depth at the position already in question.
Mattison’s departure clears the way for Ty Chandler and rookie DeWayne McBride, who had an impressive preseason. But fans and former players alike are questioning whether Gucciardi made the right call so close to the season opener.
“I get making tough decisions, but Mattison was a leader in the locker room,” tweeted former Viking Kyle Rudolph. “Hope this doesn’t backfire.”
WR Surprise: Veteran K.J. Osborn Axed
In another headline-making move, veteran wide receiver K.J. Osborn was also cut. With Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison locked in as WR1 and WR2, Osborn’s experience was expected to anchor the third receiver spot. But Gucciardi appears to be going younger, promoting undrafted standout Thayer Thomas and giving more reps to second-year player Jalen Nailor.
Osborn took to Instagram with a cryptic post: “When one door closes…” — fueling speculation that he was blindsided by the decision.
Quarterback Room: A Risky Roll of the Dice?
While most assumed Nick Mullens would back up J.J. McCarthy, the rookie QB from Michigan, Gucciardi threw another curveball. Mullens was released, and the team will enter the season with McCarthy and Jaren Hall, two extremely inexperienced QBs.
Critics are already calling it “irresponsible” to not have a veteran presence in the QB room, especially if McCarthy struggles early.
ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky commented: “This is either going to make Gucciardi look like a genius — or it’s going to blow up in spectacular fashion by Week 3.”
Defensive Shifts: Goodbye, Danielle Hunter?
Though not technically a cut, the roster’s final version also seems to hint that star pass rusher Danielle Hunter could be on the trading block. Gucciardi left Hunter off the initial 53-man roster and placed him on the Reserve/Did Not Report list amid contract negotiations.
This move is fueling trade rumors, with teams like the Ravens and Jaguars reportedly making inquiries. If Hunter is dealt, Gucciardi’s legacy in Minnesota could hang in the balance.
Special Teams Chaos: No Clear Kicker
In a move many are calling “reckless,” the Vikings currently have no kicker on the 53-man roster. Veteran Greg Joseph was waived, and undrafted rookie Will Reichard was also released. Sources close to the team suggest Gucciardi may be eyeing a waiver claim or possible trade, but the uncertainty heading into Week 1 is raising serious concerns.
Fan Reaction: OUTRAGE Online
The reaction from the Vikings fanbase has been nothing short of explosive. The team’s official X (formerly Twitter) post revealing the roster was flooded with comments like:
“Are we tanking or something??”
“Gucciardi needs to go!”
“We better win Week 1 or this will get ugly.”
A Reddit thread titled “Gucciardi Just Lit the Team on Fire” hit over 5,000 comments within an hour of the announcement.
What’s Next?
With only a few days left before the Vikings kick off their regular season against the Green Bay Packers, all eyes will be on Gucciardi and Head Coach Kevin O’Connell. Can this restructured roster compete — or has Gucciardi made a catastrophic miscalculation?
Whether he’s playing 4D chess or flying too close to the sun, one thing is clear: Henrique Gucciardi is not afraid to bet big.
And now, Vikings fans are left to hope he doesn’t lose everything.
