Andrew DePaola

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Minnesota Vikings secured a fair deal for long snapper Andrew DePaola at $1.7M AAV, earning a solid C CVI that reflects appropriate market pricing for a rotational specialist. While DePaola operates as a rotational player rather than an elite long snapper, his $1.7M annual salary sits right in the sweet spot for dependable special teams contributors who can handle the job without breaking the bank. The one-year structure with full guarantees makes perfect sense for a specialist position where teams prioritize reliability over star power, giving Minnesota flexibility to reassess after the season while DePaola gets his payday upfront. Long snappers rarely move the needle dramatically, but competent execution at this salary tier represents exactly the kind of unsexy, smart roster management that winning organizations employ. This C-grade CVI reflects a transaction where both sides got what they needed — the Vikings filled a crucial special teams role without overpaying, while DePaola secured fair compensation for his specialized skillset.

Performance Analysis

Andrew DePaola earns a D for the Vikings as their long snapper, which is a grade that puts him in the middle of the specialist pack. DePaola has been serviceable in the snapping role, delivering consistent snaps on field goals and punts without major mishaps. Long snapping is the kind of job where you only hear about it when things go wrong, and DePaola has largely avoided catastrophe. Minnesota's special teams have had other issues, but the snapping has been adequate. He is a veteran specialist doing a veteran specialist job — nothing more, nothing less.

Fan Sentiment

Retaining an All-Pro long snapper is a quietly elite special teams move. Five headlines confirm this re-signing drew real media attention for a specialist role. Headline three explicitly calls DePaola an All-Pro, signaling he's the best in the business. Fans are relieved, especially after losing their punter, keeping the snapping core intact. DePaola anchors a critical special teams unit and should remain a Viking long-term.