Vikings Head Coach Kevin O'Connell and Running Back Aaron Jones join Dianna Russini to talk about expectations for 2025

Summary

Scoop City: A Show About the NFL – Episode Summary

Release Date: August 15, 2025
Guests: Minnesota Vikings Head Coach Kevin O'Connell and Running Back Aaron Jones
Host: Dianna Russini
Co-Host: Chase Daniel

---

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Scoop City: A Show About the NFL, hosted by Dianna Russini and co-hosted by longtime NFL quarterback Chase Daniel, listeners are treated to insightful discussions with Minnesota Vikings Head Coach Kevin O'Connell and Running Back Aaron Jones. The focus centers around the Vikings' outlook for the 2025 season, quarterback development, team dynamics, and personal insights from the players and coaching staff.

---

Interview with Head Coach Kevin O'Connell

Kevin O'Connell dives deep into the Vikings' preparations and expectations for the upcoming season. Highlighting the team's rigorous training camp, O'Connell emphasizes the improved physicality and defensive strength, stating, "It's been a really good camp. It's been, you know, as you would expect... it's made us better" (03:38).

Quarterback Development

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the development of the Vikings' young quarterback, JJ McCarthy. O'Connell addresses the patience required in nurturing a quarterback who is still honing his skills, especially after recovering from an injury. He asserts, "Developing quarterbacks is not an overnight thing. It's not a flash reaction thing" (05:32), underscoring the importance of a supportive environment for growth.

Handling Expectations

O'Connell candidly talks about managing external expectations and internal team goals. He reflects on past experiences, mentioning a pivotal moment in Cleveland where the team overcame low expectations to achieve impressive results. "When you win 14 games, that's... we're trying to build a team that's worthy of the moment in the end" (09:26), he shares, highlighting the resilience and focus required to sustain success.

Team Dynamics and Leadership

The Head Coach also touches upon the collaborative efforts with other teams, particularly in joint practices. He praises the organization and dedication of fellow coaches, stating, "We have a great setup here, so... our team, I think both of our teams got better" (04:30). This camaraderie fosters a competitive yet cooperative atmosphere that benefits the players' development.

---

Interview with Running Back Aaron Jones

Later in the episode, Aaron Jones joins the conversation, bringing a personal touch to the discussion with anecdotes about family life and his role within the team.

Life as a Father

Jones opens up about balancing professional sports with fatherhood. He shares heartwarming stories about his five-year-old son, emphasizing the motivational boost his family provides. "I enjoy being a dad. I feel like God blessed me, and it's just made me hungrier, gave me something more to play for as well" (17:01).

Physical and Mental Preparedness

Discussing his longevity in the league, Jones elaborates on the importance of prehabilitation and maintaining physical health. "As you get older, you kind of start to figure out, or you stay on top of it... that's a lot" (18:23), he explains, detailing his regimen that includes cold tubs and consistent training routines to stay game-ready.

Leadership and Team Role

Jones highlights his role as a mentor to younger players, especially the emerging quarterback, JJ McCarthy. He emphasizes the significance of communication and being a positive influence on the field. "I just try to be that person that can go to communicate, be that resource and then when a play needs to be made, provide that spark" (19:44).

Handling Media and Expectations

When addressing external expectations, Jones maintains a grounded perspective, focusing on daily improvement rather than lofty end-goals like the Super Bowl. "We talk about more of the process and being championship worthy... make sure it's championship worthy" (26:10), he shares, contrasting the team's approach with more overtly ambitious franchises.

---

Concluding Remarks

The episode wraps up with light-hearted banter between O'Connell and Jones, showcasing their camaraderie and shared passion for the game. Their discussions not only shed light on the Vikings' strategic plans but also offer a glimpse into the personal lives and leadership philosophies that drive the team forward.

Notable Quotes:

• Kevin O'Connell: "Developing quarterbacks is not an overnight thing. It's not a flash reaction thing." (05:32)
• Aaron Jones: "I enjoy being a dad. I feel like God blessed me, and it's just made me hungrier, gave me something more to play for as well." (17:01)
• Kevin O'Connell: "When you win 14 games, that's... we're trying to build a team that's worthy of the moment in the end." (09:26)
• Aaron Jones: "We talk about more of the process and being championship worthy... make sure it's championship worthy." (26:10)

---

This episode of Scoop City offers a comprehensive look into the Minnesota Vikings' strategic outlook for 2025, blending professional insights with personal stories that resonate with fans and listeners alike.

Transcript

[Host]

As you've probably heard by now, we've teamed up with BetMGM this season. We'll be using BetMGM lines to make all of our picks and we'll have special offers for our listeners each week. If you haven't signed up for BetMGM yet, use bonus code TheAthletic and you'll get a one year subscription to the Athletic plus up to a fifteen hundred dollar first bet offer on your first wager with BetMGM. Here's how it works. Download the BetMGM app and sign up using bonus code TheAthletic. Make your first deposit of at least ten dollars, place bet on any game and claim your voucher for a one year subscription to the Athletic. See betmgm.com for terms. U.S. promotional offers not available in D.C. mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario or Puerto Rico gambling problem call 1-800- gambler available in the U.S. call 877-8-HOPE NY or text HOPE NY 467-369 in New York, call 1-800- NEXT STEP in Arizona, 1-800-327-5050 Massachusetts 1, 800, bets off in Iowa, 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help in Michigan, 1-800-981-0023 in Puerto Rico for first bet offer for new customers only in partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. Don't forget, if you haven't signed up for BetMGM yet, use bonus code TheAthletic and you'll get a one year subscription to the Athletic plus up to a fifteen hundred dollar first bet offer on your first wager. Why choose a Sleep Number Smart Bed.

[Co-Host]

Can I make my site softer?

[Host]

Can I make my site firmer? Can we sleep cooler? Sleep number does that cools up to eight times faster and lets you choose your ideal comfort on either side. Your Sleep Number setting It's the Sleep number biggest sale of the all beds on sale up to 50% off the limited edition smart bed plus free home delivery with the purchase of any Smart bed ends Monday. All Sleep Number Smart beds offer temperature solutions for your best sleep. Check it out at a Sleep number store or sleepnumber.com today.

[Co-Host]

This is Car Tracks with Turtle Wax.

[Host]

Your car says a lot about you. So if we asked your car what it would say about you, what would it say? Listen, you dropped one of those tiny cheeseburgers under the seat like last week and now we're both dry heaving at the stench. Do us a favor, grab some Turtle Wax and let's get to work. This has been Car Tracks With Turtle Wax. You are how you car.

[Co-Host]

Back here on Scoop City with. With Vikings head coach Kevin o', Connell, who apparently is very disappointed to be sitting with me, wants Chase Daniel here because you want to talk quarterback and you want. And you want to hang out with him in California.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Yeah, he's San Diego guy. I mean, he's probably has a lovely home out there and never been invited. Never. And I don't make it back there much, but that's all I ask.

[Co-Host]

I've never been invited either. So it makes two. Why don't we do this? Why don't we plan a trip and go see Chase together while he's in his room just breaking down JJ McCarthy video and posting it. Do you guys ever watch Chase's videos? Have you ever, like, seen them? As you're scrolling?

[Kevin O'Connell]

I've never. I've never seen the whole thing, but I've seen clips of them. Great job. I mean, knows what he's talking about. I mean, look, the guys that have done it before and done it at the level that Chase did for a long time, they know what they're talking about.

[Co-Host]

Yeah, he's smart. Played 14 years, made a boatload of money, and now lives in beautiful San Diego. Big Padres fan. What do you think of what the Padres did at the trade deadline?

[Kevin O'Connell]

I was excited. I saw him take ownership of first place last night. That's what I was excited about. So it helped. We'll take the angel sweeping the Dodgers any day of the week.

[Co-Host]

I can't believe you even have the bandwidth to observe anything else going on.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Because it's west coast time.

[Co-Host]

Yeah.

[Kevin O'Connell]

So I can wind down.

[Co-Host]

Yeah, you go to bed with that with the game on. Good way to sleep. But how are your nights of rest with this team right now? I've heard this has been a really good camp for you guys.

[Kevin O'Connell]

It's been a really good camp. It's been, you know, as you would expect. You come out of the box with, you know, some of those new fellows up front. Really, you know, on defense. We were, you know, expecting to. To have a very challenging camp from the standpoint of the front seven defensively. And that's exactly what it's. What it's been. It's made us better. Ryan Kelly and Will Fry, Donovan Jackson. We really have a new internal three there, you know, and obviously with Christian Dersal working his way back, what a camp. He's had to be already taking team reps, you know, and really building his workload up. So it's been, you know, get off To a great start. Physicality, the defense flying around. Veteran group offense kind of responds. And we have some real competitive days. And I thought our team going into the first game last week against Houston, I know d' Amico's always going to have a roster that plays physical. They play really hard. So it's a great first preseason checkpoint to have kind of see where your team's at. And I thought that we were a physical team. I thought that to only have four penalties in your first season preseason game, I thought was important. A lot of things we emphasized with our guys, we saw and then the same over these last two days. Love having Braves and, you know, his team. Here was my first call to host a team. We have a great setup here, so, you know, we have a lot of options when it comes to hosting joint practice. And Mike was my first call. I love doing practice with him. It's organized, it's detailed. His team's ready to practice the right way. Had a blast. So our team, I think both of our teams got better.

[Co-Host]

Yeah. All eyes, obviously, on just this development of your quarterback and everyone wanting to know where he's at in the process. And you're the one running the show here of how much you're going to give him and how it's going to go. Where is he at now? How do you feel about it?

[Kevin O'Connell]

I think, you know, Eddie, a great couple days here.

[Co-Host]

He had a great day today.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Yeah, great day today. Competitive environment. I think that's what I was most excited about, not only with jj, but our whole team. Sometimes that second day, a joint practice, you know, there can be, you know, can go one of two ways. Either there's a little, you know, woe is me. I did it. You poured everything out. Day one.

[Co-Host]

Yep.

[Kevin O'Connell]

And let's just get through this. Or it's. Your team comes out with a purpose. And I thought both teams did. I thought it was really competitive. Great red zone work. And JJ specifically, I mean, he's in a. He's in a really good spot right now from a standpoint of, look, we're trying to build a plan that, you know, goes beyond the first place preseason or the first regular season game. We want to get him ready to go. We want to get him prepared. But my job is to prepare the whole football team. And those two things can be going on at the same time, but maybe not necessarily be in the same place at the same time. And I think there's been good examples of that throughout the first three, four weeks here. And having a day like Today, you know, responding to both some positives that he did yesterday, some coachable things. To see a team for the second time play with that much conviction. Yeah, the ball was jumping out of his hands and really felt like the offense had a great day. I'll watch the defensive tape in the kicking game, but it's, It's a lot. But I feel like JJ's in a good spot right now. We just got to keep working. It's details, it's discipline. It's a lot of boring things that maybe wouldn't find their way on Scoop City podcast.

[Co-Host]

Yeah, very boring. Actually. I'm falling asleep while we're talking about it.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Very important.

[Co-Host]

That being said, speaking of things that aren't boring, when we've been on Scoop City, Chase and I talking about jj, we've been trying to articulate in the best way we can that you essentially have to look at JJ as a rookie and that you have to be patient. And when I say you, I mean like the fans and the people that want, you know, the highest caliber of a quarterback right now. It's impossible with him coming off injury and just getting back into playing at games, speed and actually taking a snap in the NFL. Do you feel that there's an impatience from everyone right now around?

[Kevin O'Connell]

Look, I, you know, I think that, you know, as I've told, you know, JJ and I've told our offensive unit, look, it should be, it should be a good thing that the expectations for not only a quarterback playing for the first time, but the group itself, I want them to be high. We have high, you know, goals and aspirations as a team, and our offense will certainly play a part of that. But yes, I'm, I'm totally. I've been through this, you know, you know, in certain capacities, both, you know, as a young quarterback, getting the ball in your hands and trying to, you know, live up to either your role as a backup or playing behind maybe the best quarterback that ever lived and taking the reps right after that guy. And the standards are the way they are. So as a coach, I've seen it in every, you know, kind of have every capacity of being along that journey with the player. I expect there to be reactions, positive, negative. Our goal is to win football games, and JJ's going to play a role in that. Our team's going to play a role in that. I will most, you know, maybe more so than anyone, play a role in that with what we ask our team to do, what we ask our offense to do, what we ask JJ to do. But all with an understanding of the foundation of defense. Developing quarterbacks is not a overnight thing. It's not a flash reaction thing. I think that's what gets organizations in trouble sometimes. When you want so badly, we all want so badly for it to look a certain way and be a certain way from the. From the very beginning. But what are you doing as a coach, as an organization, as a teammate, as a one of 11 in the huddle with said player to make sure that we're doing every in our power to give the best possible chance to have success? And then when adversity hits, how are we going to respond to that? I think that was a great learning moment for our team last year. Adversity hit right now. I can remember sitting with you in Cleveland.

[Co-Host]

It was that day that it all came out.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Yeah, it was that day. And the expectations of this team might have the first pick in the draft. This team might win six games. This team should be in the cellar of the NFC North. And it was a great example of ignoring a lot of that. It's great. You know, it's great to. There's only so many, you know, speeches you can give your team where you use that. If you use that every single day, you'll have no substance. You'll build nothing that can sustain. And when you win 14 games, that's. That's fantastic. I was proud of what we did. But we're trying to build a team that's worthy of the moment in the end. And in the end, maybe punching your ticket and trying to play the best four quarters that you possibly can. But we've got to worry about Chicago. We've got to worry about.

[Co-Host]

I was gonna ask you that. Like, the patience is good, but you. You have a tough schedule coming out. It's not like this is a doozy. So it's. It's like trying to get your guys ready as quick as possible, but also knowing there's probably limitations because of what you. What you can do. Yeah. And you mentioned the greatest quarterback to ever play in Tom Brady, which I'm sure you see the statue up there in New England and that whole celebration. Do you hear what Vrabel said about you?

[Kevin O'Connell]

But you're just, you know, that's the problem.

[Co-Host]

Just a bully.

[Kevin O'Connell]

You get drafted and Tom Brady's there. His teammates all want you to. Hey, you're not as good as Tom.

[Co-Host]

So, okay, so then. So I think it's fair to say, and I don't think you're gonna have hurt feelings that Tom Brady was Better than you.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Yes, I would agree with that assessment.

[Co-Host]

But a lot of people don't know this about you. Before you were this fantastic coach of the year, you were a broadcaster. Kevin worked at CBS and you could only park podcast.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Then, you know, maybe Chase, maybe you would have had a try out for the, the on the screen with you.

[Co-Host]

I would have definitely auditioned you. I don't think you would have got the job, but I would have. I can't get a word in, but.

[Kevin O'Connell]

It'S by design.

[Co-Host]

That I believe. Did you have like a CVS Jack? Like, did you have the, you had.

[Kevin O'Connell]

The whole jacket every time the CVS crew, I think, I think Jim and Tony might be here early on in the season. And I always tell, do you wear.

[Co-Host]

It to the meeting?

[Kevin O'Connell]

He always wants me to wear it to the meeting and I can't find it. I, I, I've lost. You know, this coaching thing is taking its toll on me. I probably wouldn't fit.

[Co-Host]

All right, so then are you better at broadcast than Tom Brady? Is this something that maybe you're better at?

[Kevin O'Connell]

You know what, let's, let's let history play out. I think Tom did a great job last year and knowing, knowing him, I think he's going to be fantastic and he's probably been working at it all off season long and he's gonna be good at whatever he does.

[Co-Host]

I've never seen you actually in the booth, but I am going to Google this the second this wraps because I would love to see you do it because it's not, it's hard, right?

[Kevin O'Connell]

It's hard. The game goes fast. Especially, you know, 8 o' clock at night, mountain west games with no huddle off. He's just going, you're not doing a lot of analysis.

[Co-Host]

Maybe you use some of that that you learned at the broadcast booth and you're applying it now as a coach has made you so successful. Have you found your coach of the year trophy? Where is this thing?

[Kevin O'Connell]

We have secured it.

[Co-Host]

Where is it?

[Kevin O'Connell]

It is, I believe it's in my office.

[Co-Host]

Aaron Jones would like you to not only keep it in your office but display in the window because he says that they can see from the field. Yeah, he wants to see it every.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Day like it was. I don't. And you were here earlier. It was sprinkling rain early on. So I, you know, I see them all looking back up in my office and I'm waiting to last possible moment to come out to practice because of said rain and they're all waving me out. I'm Like I told. I told Henry, my wonderful as the chief of staff, I said, we got to get some tint on these windows.

[Co-Host]

Kevin o', Connor, brilliant offensive mind. A big wimp in the rain, though. All right, Kevin. Anything for us.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Where are you headed to next?

[Co-Host]

I'm headed to Washington.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Going to.

[Co-Host]

Back. Back to Washington.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Ask Cliff how. How he responds to, you know, what Mike. What Mike said about.

[Co-Host]

Oh, yeah, because he said it's about Cliff, too. I know. He just takes you guys all down. That's. It's not. It's not fair. You got to get something back at him. Gotta zing him. He's 50 today.

[Kevin O'Connell]

I know.

[Co-Host]

He's old. You're young.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Trying to get him on the golf course. That's what I want.

[Co-Host]

He's terrible at golf.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Don't say that.

[Co-Host]

He's terrible. I've seen him go. I know. I've seen. I was in Tahoe. I saw him. He's horrendous. Not this year. A couple years ago. He's not good, but it's fair. So I'll take you in that.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Another. Another. Exciting. Is there going to be joint practice.

[Co-Host]

Or just then they canceled it. It was going to be between Washington and the Ravens, so.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Gotcha.

[Co-Host]

But season two of. Oh, I will. He's the best. Season two, scoop city. We're starting off here. We appreciate that you came on on season one when we were just this little baby that nobody was listening and watching. And now every single Minnesota Vikings blog listens to every episode.

[Kevin O'Connell]

I'm sure they do.

[Co-Host]

And they love me.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Thanks for coming out and spending some time with us.

[Co-Host]

Popsicles, sprinklers, a cool breeze. Talk about refreshing. You know what else is refreshing this summer? A brand new phone with Verizon. Yep. Get a new phone on any plan with select phone. Trade in and myplan and lock down a low price for three years on any plan with my plan. This is a deal for everyone, whether you're a new or existing customer. Swing by Verizon today for our best phone deals. 3 year price guarantee applies to then current base monthly rate only. Additional terms and conditions apply for all offers.

[Host]

A dog's love letter to his squeaky avocado.

[Co-Host]

Dearest squeaky avocado, my heart yearns to chew thee.

[Host]

Alas, I've devoured a small action figure.

[Aaron Jones]

And have taken ill, unable to partake in our jubilant squeakings. Worry not, as I am on the mend and lemonade pet insurance covered 90% of the veterinarian's cost.

[Host]

I Recommend all the cats and dogs of the land.

[Aaron Jones]

Get a'@lemonade.com pet soon my tummy will be unburdened and we shall frolic once more.

[Host]

Yours, Jerry.

[Co-Host]

Trying to plan a trip and already need a vacation from it? EF Ultimate Break makes group travel easy and affordable for anyone 18 to 35. Everything's handled from accommodation to daily breakfasts to an expert. Tour director will show you the local secrets. Go island hopping in Greece, eat your way through Tokyo or take your pick from over 120 trips perfectly planned for your kind of adventure and with flexible interest free payments. You can book now and pay over time. Just head to Efub Co Travel, fill out your info and get $100 off your first trip. For the first time on Scoop City, we've got Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones joining the show. Welcome. How you doing?

[Aaron Jones]

I'm doing great. And you?

[Co-Host]

I'm really, really good. How's the fam? Growing. Keeping you busy?

[Aaron Jones]

Keeping me busy.

[Co-Host]

Five and two is. That's a tough age.

[Aaron Jones]

Oh, they keep you going? Especially my boy. He's five. He non stop. As soon as I get home, dad, let's play football. He was out here playing the whole time during practice, playing. As soon as I get home, he's like, Dallas, play. Hey, man, we just did football for eight hours. 10 to 12 hours. Can daddy get a break? No.

[Co-Host]

Yeah.

[Aaron Jones]

So it's fun color. It's fun though.

[Co-Host]

Could we play with the trains to the block, something I know well. Gary's hero, right? And he wants to. Do you want him to play football?

[Aaron Jones]

Yes. Football, basketball, soccer, anything. I do want him to be an athlete. Well, not necessarily have to be an athlete, but I do want him to compete while he's younger, get that competitive edge because that can carry over to the real world. Even if you're working a regular 9 to 5, that competitiveness still can drive you.

[Co-Host]

How different are you now that you're dad? Like, what is post game like after a loss or God forbid, an injury, something terrible when you have kids compared to when you don't.

[Aaron Jones]

It kind of no matter how good you play, no matter how bad you play, you're still gonna have to change diapers when you get home. They still see you as their hero. If the game went right for you, if it went wrong for you, they're still in your corner. They're there still supporting you. I don't know how many times I heard my son say, daddy, you're the best running back in the NFL. Or yesterday I told Him. I was like, you know, you can be anything you want to be. He was like, so that means I can be just like you. And I'm like, come on. And I'm like, no, I want you to be better. So that touched my heart, But I enjoy being a dad. I feel like God blessed me, and it's just made me hungrier, gave me something more to play for as well. And he understands the game. He's old enough to understand it now.

[Co-Host]

So it's good motivation because he's gonna be like your mom and call you out.

[Aaron Jones]

Oh, 100%. Daddy. Elijah dropped that. He lets me hear for sure.

[Co-Host]

I saw the. I think it was like the Vikings video. People mic'd up your family. They're crazy. They're adorable. Just. They understand. You're exactly right. They knew exactly what was happening. Your daughter's eating snacks, by the way. I was like, she's doing exactly what I would have been doing. But that being said, being, you know, we talk about, you know, your dad, you have all this experience playing. We criticize the older running backs all the time, but how do you actually feel at your age right now, physically, for those that. That maybe don't get what it's like to be a running back at 30?

[Aaron Jones]

I feel better than when I first came in.

[Co-Host]

But how?

[Aaron Jones]

Like, I feel like as you. As you get a little bit older, I always say it's a trial and error figuring out what works for your body. And I feel like as you get older, you kind of start to figure out, or you stay on top of it. Prehab. You're doing prehab before anything. As you get younger, you're just able to roll out of bed and just get out there on the field. You don't have to warm up. You don't have to stretch. So taking those precautions before. Before anything happens, and that'll save you on the front end, just being prepared to come out here and play. Spending time in the training room about 30 minutes or so before we come out. Just activating the muscles, stretching, getting everything going. And like I said, in the morning, doing some prehab and staying on top of it. A lot of cold tubs. My Sono, he comes back up here with me at night. I got his life vested, swimming trunks on top of the lockers. So he jumps in the cold tub. He's in the hot tub. He loves it.

[Co-Host]

It's a good way to deal with it all. So you feel good, though, despite all that and the advantages, as we were just talking about, about being older, is you kind of understand the trails better, you understand how this works, what is seasons like, what you have to do to take care of your body in terms of actually playing the game. For the Minnesota Vikings, where do you think your mental side and understanding of it is going to be beneficial for this team this year for where you're at in your life?

[Aaron Jones]

I think it's going to be huge. Especially young at some positions and then have first year guys coming in as I was a first year guy last year and it could be a lot. When you're first coming in, you're trying to learn a whole new offense but get out there and play and be productive. So anywhere I can make their job easier, make their job easier, but just really be that person that can go to communicate, be that resource and then when a play needs to be made, provide that spark.

[Co-Host]

Yeah. I mean you have a young quarterback too, right?

[Aaron Jones]

Yeah, young quarterback.

[Co-Host]

He's someone that, you know, you're someone he could definitely lean on knowing that you've done it all and you're new to, to this offense. By the way, let's not act like you've been here.

[Aaron Jones]

No, definitely. Yeah, that's, that's the other thing I'm excited about. This is going to be my second year in the offense. So like I said last year, it's a, as a, as a first year guy, it's a lot to.

[Co-Host]

Can I just tell you, when we reported that I actually did it, I got luck. Scoop city. We reported that that you were coming to Minnesota. People were texting me in football that they thought I made a mistake. They thought like someone gave me bad intel and I was like, no, no, no, no, it's done. He's going to Minnesota. So the world was shocked by it. And I know you were, you've talked about it before. Are you over it now? Where are you at mentally about that? This is home now.

[Aaron Jones]

Yeah, I'm over it. God doesn't make mistakes. That's the thing I like to say. You know, at first I was kind of didn't know coming in, you have all these vets telling me like that I played with previously, don't leave Green Bay vets who've gone to other teams. Don't leave there. Don't leave there. Like it's great places. Not like that everywhere, blah, blah, blah. Which it is a great place. But they came over here and I'm like, God doesn't make mistakes. I'm right where I'm supposed to, supposed to be. So I'm blessed That I was able to get the chance to play here and continue to get to play here. It's another great fan base who does it the right way from the top down.

[Co-Host]

Yeah. And you seem to have no issue with the chant. I watch some video clips of you. You get into it like that. You were just. They had a plane the other day at practice, and you're.

[Aaron Jones]

Oh, I love it. It's because they saw you hear once a year playing against them. Of course, we play here, and you see it and just see everybody into it, and then they blow their horn. It's something special.

[Co-Host]

And then when it's for you now, you're like, you get it every Sunday now.

[Aaron Jones]

I'm participating. Every time I see it, anytime I see it going on, you're gonna see me jump in and do it.

[Co-Host]

But I think that's the one thing that your teammates have always told me over the years was not just the joy that you have in the game and the kindness that always comes with you, but the energy. And do you feel like that is actually the role for you on a team is to bring that juice?

[Aaron Jones]

I think so. Bring that juice. Bring that spark. If it's a little dull, spark something just. And I don't know if it's because I'm. I have a relationship with each teammate where they know, like, hey, I see him doing this. Okay, let's. Let's go have some fun. Or, let's go do this.

[Co-Host]

Yeah.

[Aaron Jones]

So I don't know if it's just being able to communicate with all my teammates, and then they know who I am and know how I am, but it's definitely special to be able to provide a sparker, be the energy guy. And I try to. We're in the huddle. I go around the huddle, giving everybody knuckles. Try to give them some words of advice. Let's get it going. Let's start this period. We're in the red zone. Nobody should stop us. Just little tidbits or something's not going right. Hey, we can't shoot ourselves in the foot. The only team that's gonna beat us is ourselves. Things like that, that you may need somebody in your ear. It's always good to hear somebody. Okay, good throw, good run, good pass, good block. To hear that, to have that constant communication is great.

[Co-Host]

You mostly played with veteran quarterbacks. Really, the significant part of your career, you played with older quarterbacks. So now you have this young guy coming off an injury, poised, willing to learn, coachable as ever. What do you make so far? Of we'll call it. I know he, I know he had camp last year, but he's truly like. It's like a rookie. You have to almost view it that way because he missed so much time last year. How do you feel about where he's at?

[Aaron Jones]

I'm really excited about where he's at. You know, he looked, came out on Saturday. He looked very comfortable today. He looked comfortable. He's making throws and he's. He's learning as we go and I think he's going to surprise a lot of people. He's a winner. He's very smart. He can see things happening before they happen a lot of times and he's great at communicating. When you, when you have a great communicator, that solves a lot of. Solves a lot of problems. But I was also, when my first Jordan Love first started starting, he was.

[Co-Host]

I was thinking about that he was younger as well.

[Aaron Jones]

It was his first time starting and just being able to. I feel like I have some experience being there with the young quarterbacks. So now being there with jj, just like I said, my job is to make his job easier.

[Co-Host]

What's the advice you give young guys like that? What do you know that you're like, is it patience? Is it kind of allow yourself to make these mistakes?

[Aaron Jones]

I let them know they're here for a reason. They're our leaders. We're gonna go as they go. But no, we're here to make your job easier.

[Co-Host]

So young.

[Aaron Jones]

So young.

[Co-Host]

Do you ever think like, wow, 22, you know, like they haven't lived much. And I say they because we were out there watching Drake. May as well you have two young quarterbacks playing out there. But there's also, there's an advantage to that, right of he is a sponge. Your head coach obviously coming off a spectacular season as your team leader. Coach of the year.

[Aaron Jones]

Coach of the year. Koc.

[Co-Host]

What's his vibe this year? What's he like?

[Aaron Jones]

The same as last year.

[Co-Host]

Oh, he's not cocky now?

[Aaron Jones]

No, the same as last year. You'll hear guys try to give him some crap about it and he's like, he's like one ear and out the other.

[Co-Host]

I wonder where his trophy is.

[Aaron Jones]

That's a great question.

[Co-Host]

Yeah, we should find out.

[Aaron Jones]

I'm gonna ask him when I see him. I'm gonna start messing with.

[Co-Host]

Messing with him or why don't you put that thing in your office. Show it off, man. Be proud of it. We contributed.

[Aaron Jones]

You can see from like from this practice fields. You can See those windows? I'm telling. Hey, put it in the window and leave the curtain open.

[Co-Host]

Let the world know.

[Aaron Jones]

Let the world know. Let us see it, too.

[Co-Host]

Mm.

[Aaron Jones]

Gotta give him another one of those.

[Co-Host]

Expectations are crazy, right? They're nuts. Because your roster's so good, you being such a big part of it, do you feel it needs to be tempered? Do you feel like everyone on the outside and I don't know how much you're consuming, I don't know how much you read of the Athletic and watch of, you know, network TV talking sports, but it's big right now. There is. Everyone thinks you guys are going far or deep into the playoffs. How do you feel about it?

[Aaron Jones]

I believe the same thing, but I don't look.

[Co-Host]

Do you talk super bowl here?

[Aaron Jones]

We talk about more of the process and being championship worthy. If you make everyday championship worthy, every practice, every moment you're in this facility, even when you're not. Like if. When you're working on your body outside of the facility, if you're doing things outside of the facility, make sure it's championship worthy. So if it ties back, like, if it ties to football, make sure it's championship worthy.

[Co-Host]

Yeah.

[Aaron Jones]

And if you do that every day because continue to stack it, when you look up, we'll be right where we want to be. We'll be in that champion.

[Co-Host]

It is interesting how different teams do this because we were in Denver and they're, like, loud and proud about, like, we're going to the super bowl, like, we want to go to the super bowl, and they lean into it and it works for them, you know? Whereas I feel like here is maybe just more about let's. Let's chill for a second, just figure out a way to arrive and be playing in San Francisco.

[Aaron Jones]

Let's figure out our everyday process. If we progress every day, we're getting better every day, we'll be exactly where we want to be. Like you said, we got a lot of people coming back, a couple new faces here and there that just help bluster our roster. So we feel like we have all the pieces that we need here, and we're very confident in ourselves, and we feel like we just can't beat ourselves.

[Co-Host]

Have you called Saquon and Derek and said thank you? Like, hey, thanks for being old and good?

[Aaron Jones]

I haven't, but I've done a couple interviews when asked about the running backs. Thank those guys. Saquon definitely helped us.

[Co-Host]

It's just.

[Aaron Jones]

It definitely changed after his deal in this offseason. He definitely helped everybody. Derek thank you for continuing to do what you do.

[Co-Host]

He's unbelievable.

[Aaron Jones]

All the. All the. All the backs, y' all keep. Keep making money, keep doing that business.

[Co-Host]

And look, Derek and Saquon are so different. Their style of game is so different. In terms of you as a runner right now, from where you were, you, year one to what you are now, how would you describe Aaron Jones as a runner on the Minnesota Vikings?

[Aaron Jones]

Oh, I feel like year one, I was just out there running with no direction, just going running and just cutting and reacting off of what I seen. And now I have a real understanding of the playbook, what we're trying to get done on each play, each run scheme, where the power of the play is. Is it gonna. Should it cut back? And if. If it doesn't cut back where it should go, kind of. Or if they come out in this front, what to expect. So it definitely slowed the game down for me. Even in pass protection, seeing the safety rotation, knowing, hey, they might bring the pressure from here with the safety, or the safety has the nickel top. The nickel is going to pressure small things like that. It is really slow. It slowed the game down for me and made it made a lot easier. When you can identify things or you can anticipate what's going to happen, 99% of the time, you'll win.

[Co-Host]

I feel like there's a theme in this interview. It's like the value of experience. Getting old is actually cool. You can do well in life with all the knowledge. So I think we'll end on that note. I know we've known each other for a long time. I wish I did the interview shooting hoops with you, though, because there's not a lot of things I think I'm better at than you. But that may be the one thing I can beat you at.

[Aaron Jones]

I don't think so.

[Co-Host]

I don't.

[Aaron Jones]

We gotta test it out. Did you play basketball?

[Co-Host]

Yeah.

[Aaron Jones]

I think I remember you telling me you played.

[Co-Host]

I played soccer at a high level, but I played. I was all state.

[Aaron Jones]

He was an athlete.

[Co-Host]

I can't tell you how many times I say on the show that I was all state in high school. Like, people that are listening are like, we don't care. We don't care. But you know how it is. Like, if you can play, I don't.

[Aaron Jones]

Give up none of my accomplishments. If I was, I didn't make all state. And basketball.

[Kevin O'Connell]

Thank you.

[Co-Host]

All right, so since I was just so braggadocious and obnoxious, give me something that you'd brag about. Like brag about one thing that you're like. Yep. What are you the most proud of? What are you the cockiest about? Let's go be gross. Gross us out. I have like four more so far.

[Aaron Jones]

Okay, give me, give me two more.

[Co-Host]

I was voted best all around in high school. I was captain my freshman year in college. I was the youngest reporter to ever get hired in the New York City market.

[Aaron Jones]

Okay.

[Co-Host]

I had my first son in 12 minutes. Again, very comfortable bragging.

[Aaron Jones]

I think there's. It was, I think I was the 19th back taken in my class. And it's only one back with more rushing yards than me, I believe.

[Co-Host]

There we go.

[Aaron Jones]

Mixing. I want to say.

[Co-Host]

And you're not even saying it with me with Zing. Because you know what? That's called a confident person. This is a mess of insecurity over here. Trying to prove to an elite athlete that she can ball, which I can't. But yeah, let's, let's figure something out. Maybe next off season we'll mic each other up. We'll just talk ball and shoot hoops. And you will, you'll see. You'll see the talent I bring to the table.

[Aaron Jones]

I'm ready for it.

[Co-Host]

All right, let's do it. Good luck to you. Stay healthy. We are rooting for you guys. We can't wait. And we'll see you this season.

[Aaron Jones]

Okay, thank you. It's good to see you.

[Co-Host]

So good to see you, Carol. You're in remission. I think what gets me most about this whole journey that I've been through is just how many jigsaw pieces come together to help someone like me. I've met people who have just packaged the drugs. Just this white box saying World Courier on it. But I want to better say thank you to every single person that works on these things because they've saved my life. Every single one of them.

[Host]

Every minute, World Courier makes another life changing delivery. Learn more Search World Courier. If you're alignment in charge of keeping the lights on, Grainger understands that you go to great lengths and sometimes heights to ensure the power is always flowing. Which is why you can count on Grainger for professional grade products and next day delivery. So you have everything you need to get the job done. Call 1-800-GRAINGER click granger.com or just stop by Grainger for the ones who get it done. This episode is brought to you by Progressive Insurance. Do you ever think about switching insurance companies to see if you could save some cash? Progressive makes it easy to see if you could save when you bundle your home and auto policies, try [e-mail] Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and affiliates. Potential savings will vary. Not available in all states.