Andrew DePaola

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

Earning a C+ Contract Value Index, Andrew DePaola's 1-year pact reflects how Minnesota valued the long snapper position market. At 38 years old in his 11th season, DePaola carries established-veteran credentials backed by All-Pro recognition—a rare honor at a position that rarely breaks through the noise until execution falters. His 2025 season production was minimal by volume metrics, but long snapper evaluation diverges sharply from traditional counting stats; the value lies in snapping consistency, holder communication, and the absence of costly mistakes in high-leverage moments. The $1.725M AAV sits squarely in the market range for an elite specialist, particularly one whom the Vikings deemed worth retaining over other roster priorities during a period of receiver and linebacker turnover. The single-year structure carries no long-term cap anchor and allows Minnesota flexibility if circumstances change, while the media consensus frames this retention as savvy roster continuity—recognition that stable special teams infrastructure prevents the kinds of hidden disasters that plague teams lacking reliable snapping. For a franchise holding an 9-8 record and playoff positioning, keeping a proven All-Pro at this mission-critical depth piece, even at an advanced age, signals confidence in DePaola's sustained reliability and disciplined front-office thinking.

Contracts in the Same Value Band

Other same-position deals the Contract Value Index also places in the C band — a quick read on where Andrew's contract sits relative to comparable money.

Performance AnalysisNot Tracked

Performance grades for LSs are not available. ESPN does not track individual statistics for offensive linemen, punters, long snappers, or fullbacks. This player will remain ungraded unless they change positions.

Fan Sentiment

Andrew DePaola carries an A+ sentiment grade right now, with the conversation around his Pro Bowl-caliber moments shaping the narrative. The Vikings' decision to retain him has been framed across the league as savvy roster management—multiple outlets highlighted his All-Pro credentials and the organization's commitment to continuity at a position that doesn't command attention until it goes wrong. Media consistently praised the move as smart prioritization of special teams stability, particularly given Minnesota's punter transition, positioning DePaola's reliable snapping as the foundation for their new kicking operation. Fans have embraced the retention as a signal that the organization values fundamentals over headline-grabbing moves, validating his standing as a genuine elite specialist rather than a depth afterthought. At 38 years old in his 11th season, DePaola has earned the kind of public goodwill typically reserved for players who deliver consistently in the clutch, and the Vikings' willingness to keep him—even as they've made recent moves at receiver and linebacker—underscores that this isn't nostalgia but recognition of his continued worth.