 celebrates after drawing a penalty during the fourth quarter against the New England Patriots at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports</p>
<p>” data-medium-file=”https://vikingsterritory.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=788,height=444,fit=crop,quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/USATSI_19498154-edited.jpg” data-large-file=”https://vikingsterritory.com/cdn-cgi/image/width=1180,height=663,fit=crop,quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/USATSI_19498154-edited.jpg”><figcaption><span>Nov 24, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings punter Ryan Wright (14) celebrates after drawing a penalty during the fourth quarter against the New England Patriots at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports</span></figcaption></figure><div class='code-block code-block-3' style='margin: 8px 0; clear: both;'>
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Earlier in the week, I was fortunate to speak with Vikings punter Ryan Wright. Mr. Wright — as he’s affectionately known in Eagan — is in the middle of a very strong 2025 season. Our close-to twenty-minute conversation covered the Griddy, bagels, nicknames, Brian O’Neill as a punt returner, the worst feeling at the position, his desire to remain in Minnesota, and many other topics.
— Fans Can Vote for Ryan Wright Going to the Pro Bowl on the NFL Website —
Below, the “KJ” portions represent my questions/comments and the “RW” portions represent Ryan Wright’s answers. The interview has been gently edited to iron out some of the minor blips. Otherwise, the full interview is included.
Vikings Punter Ryan Wright Offers VT an Exclusive Interview
KJ: Joining Vikings Territory for a VT Exclusive is Minnesota Vikings punter Ryan Wright. The specialist signed a one-year deal in Minnesota during the 2025 offseason, fending off direct competition to yet again be the top punter. He has solidified the position since arriving in the Twin Cities as an undrafted talent following the 2022 NFL Draft. Ryan, thanks so much for agreeing to chat.
RW: Thanks for having me.
KJ: Of course. Did I get everything in your bio correct or am I off anywhere?
RW: Sounded correct.
KJ: Okay, good enough, sounded correct works for me. I wanted to start off just as kind of a break the ice thing, putting you on spot, rapid fire, just getting your opinion on things. Your teammates and things around you. Nothing too controversial, but just getting your opinion.
RW: Sure.
KJ: Andrew DePaola, your long snapper, is he better at: mentoring the young specialists, snapping the ball, or making bagels?
RW: Oooo, it’s definitely gotta be between snapping the football and making bagels. Because, I’ll tell you, the spread that he has, they make it in store, it’s incredible. It’s like a chive cream cheese, I believe. But, I’m going to have to say that’s a tie between those two.
KJ: Alright, good enough, I’ll take that. Which offensive lineman would do the best as a punt returner?
RW: Definitely Brian O’Neill.
KJ: Really? Can you explain why definitely Brian O’Neill?
RW: He has a play in college, I believe it was some form of a hook-and-ladder, where he scored. So he has to have some kind of ball carrier ability. I believe he might have been a tight end in the past, not sure. Feel like he’s the right answer.
the NFL Website —
* I had meant to say “under center” but just said center, presumably the reason for Wright asking about playing QB. I, a dingus, have adjusted accordingly to arrive at my intended meaning. Later on, I meant to say fair catch but said touchback (like a dingus). Again, a clarifying adjustment has been made, noted with square brackets.
Editor’s Note: Vikings Territory extends a sincere thanks to Ryan Wright (his social media) for agreeing to do the interview. Fans can watch #17 on Sunday Night Football when Wright looks to help the Vikings overcome the Cowboys. For another interview, check out the earlier VT Exclusive with Blake Brandel.
I’m the Senior Editor for Vikings Territory & PurplePTSD . Twitter & Bluesky: @VikingsGazette. Email: k.joudry[at]vikingsterritory[dot]com. Canadian. Jude 1:24-25.