Vikings make surprising roster move ahead of mandatory minicamp that raises questions about one offensive position group

Vikings sign Giovanni Ricci

It's interesting timing for the Vikings to make this move. They signed Harmon initially after rookie minicamp where he was a non-roster invitee. His profile at 6'6 and 240 lbs was an intriguing one, but the Vikings have chosen to move on. 

Ricci was an undrafted free agent in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan. He spent time on the practice squad, but played multiple seasons for the Panthers. From 2021-2023, Ricci played in 36 games with four starts. He caught nine passes for 102 yards in those games.

The move is an intriguing one that sends a signal that the Vikings might not be comfortable enough with their tight end room at the moment. After T.J. Hockenson and Josh Oliver, it's three rookies: sixth-round pick Gavin Bartholomew and undrafted free agents Ben Yurosek and Bryson Nesbit. Getting a veteran who can take over the Johnny Mundt role is a valuable asset.

Now, Ricci might end up being a player who will just be around for minicamp to help the young guys get acclimated, but it's noteworthy nonetheless.

There will be a lot of interesting things that come from Vikings mandatory minicamp and we will be here to bring it all to you.