Brian O’Neill Building Rapport with Newcomers Ryan Kelly, Will Fries & Donovan Jackson
As a veteran anchor on the offensive line, Brian O’Neill understands the value of chemistry. With the Minnesota Vikings ushering in new additions to the interior offensive line—center Ryan Kelly, right guard Will Fries, and rookie Donovan Jackson—O’Neill has taken a leadership role in fostering cohesion within the group both on and off the field.
O’Neill, entering his seventh NFL season, has always emphasized communication and consistency as key pillars of successful line play. With former starters moving on and new faces stepping in, he’s made a concerted effort to bring the unit together quickly. “It starts with trust,” O’Neill said. “You can’t play five-as-one unless you know the guy next to you is on the same page mentally and physically.”
Ryan Kelly, a seasoned veteran from the Colts, brings leadership of his own, but adjusting to a new playbook and locker room dynamic takes time. O’Neill and Kelly have been spending extra hours in the film room and have been seen staying after practice to refine pass protection calls and double-team techniques. “Brian’s a real pro,” Kelly noted. “He’s made the transition a lot smoother with his willingness to collaborate and his attention to detail.”
Will Fries, another former Colt, has been similarly welcomed. O’Neill has worked closely with him during reps and walkthroughs, helping build chemistry through repetition and clear communication. “He’s vocal in all the right ways,” Fries said. “It’s not just about barking out assignments—he listens, he explains, and he encourages.”
Then there’s Donovan Jackson, the rookie guard from Ohio State. For him, O’Neill has taken on more of a mentor role, guiding him through the speed and complexity of NFL play. “Brian’s been incredible,” Jackson said. “He doesn’t treat me like a rookie—he treats me like a teammate.”
With training camp looming, O’Neill’s leadership is proving essential. While the physical talent of the new additions is clear, it’s the trust and rapport being built now that will determine the unit’s success when the season kicks off. “The goal,” O’Neill said, “is to be seamless by Week
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