As the Minnesota Vikings move forward into the offseason following the Super Bowl, the team is focusing on reshaping key roles within the roster and coaching staff. A critical development came when Ryan Cordell was promoted to Minnesota Vikings TE coach, stepping up to address pressing uncertainties at the tight end position.
Transition in Tight Ends Coaching Staff
Last season’s Minnesota Vikings tight ends coach, Brian Angelichio, departed after accepting a higher role as offensive coordinator with the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Vikings opted for an internal promotion rather than sourcing a replacement externally. Ryan Cordell, previously game management coordinator and passing game specialist, earned his first position coach role after four years with the Vikings organization, marking a significant step in his NFL coaching career.
“The #Vikings are expected to name Ryan Cordell as their new tight ends coach, sources tell @CBSSports.Has worked for Minnesota the last four years and had been game management coordinator/passing game specialist. Now expected to be promoted to tight ends coach.” ?Matt Zenitz, CBS Sports
Ryan Cordell’s Coaching Experience and Background
Cordell’s coaching journey began in 2014 as an intern with the San Francisco 49ers. He then moved to the Cleveland Browns in 2019 before joining the Minnesota Vikings in 2022. Known for his work in game management and passing strategies, Cordell’s promotion reflects the Vikings’ confidence in his ability to guide the tight ends’ group during a pivotal offseason.
Critical Questions Facing the Vikings’ Tight End Position
The tight end roster has several unresolved issues. T.J. Hockenson stands out as a candidate for restructuring or release due to his significant $21 million cap hit in 2026. Meanwhile, Josh Oliver, who earned a contract extension last summer, has impressed especially during periods when Hockenson was sidelined, and he is acclaimed as one of the league’s top blocking tight ends. Additionally, Gavin Bartholomew, a recent draft pick, missed his entire rookie season because of injury, adding to the uncertainty the new coaching staff must navigate.
Implications of Cordell’s Promotion for the Vikings’ Offseason
Ryan Cordell’s elevation to Minnesota Vikings TE coach arrives at a time when the team is under intense pressure to reshape both coaching and player roles. With head coach Kevin O’Connell bearing the responsibility after the departure of general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, the Vikings are counting on Cordell to develop a position group critical to their offensive success. The decisions made this offseason regarding tight ends, alongside Cordell’s coaching impact, could significantly influence the Vikings’ trajectory in the upcoming NFL season.
The #Vikings are expected to name Ryan Cordell as their new tight ends coach, sources tell @CBSSports.
Has worked for Minnesota the last four years and had been game management coordinator/passing game specialist. Now expected to be promoted to tight ends coach. pic.twitter.com/7IEU4OQ8r5
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) February 12, 2026
