Eagan, Minn. — The Minnesota Vikings continued their roster fine-tuning on Monday, announcing three strategic moves that bring back a familiar face while adding depth at crucial positions ahead of the 2025 NFL season.
Key Signings Bolster Depth
The Vikings signed offensive lineman Zack Bailey and running back Xazavian Valladay, while waiving linebacker Max Tooley in corresponding moves that reflect the team’s focus on experienced depth pieces.
Bailey Returns to Minnesota
Bailey, 29, returns to Minnesota for his second stint with the organization after originally joining the Vikings’ practice squad in December 2020. The 6-5, 315-pound lineman from South Carolina brings extensive NFL experience, having spent time with seven different organizations throughout his career. He has played just 2 games and started 0 in his career; the journeyman will get another chance to try and make a roster.
“Bailey’s journey through the league demonstrates the kind of perseverance and adaptability we value,” said a team source familiar with the move. Originally signed by Tampa Bay as an undrafted free agent following the 2019 NFL Draft, Bailey has made stops with Indianapolis, Washington, Los Angeles Chargers, Atlanta, and, most recently, the New York Jets, where he appeared in Week 18 of the 2024 season.
The Summerville, South Carolina native has appeared in two career NFL games, bringing valuable veteran presence to a Vikings offensive line looking to establish consistency in pass protection and run blocking schemes.
Valladay Adds Special Teams Value
The Vikings also added Xazavian Valladay (pronounced ex-ZAYVE-ee-uhn), a 6-0, 198-pound running back who brings special teams expertise to the roster. The 27-year-old Arizona State product was originally signed by Houston as an undrafted free agent following the 2023 NFL Draft.
Valladay’s NFL journey has taken him through Pittsburgh, the New York Jets, and New Orleans before landing in Minnesota. He has seen action in one career game with the Jets, appearing primarily on special teams – a role that likely attracted the Vikings’ attention as they build depth in their coverage units.
Roster Competition Intensifies
The release of linebacker Max Tooley signals the Vikings’ confidence in their linebacker depth heading into final roster decisions. The 6-2, 225-pound BYU product had spent time with the organization but was ultimately cut to make room for the new additions.
Strategic Timing
These moves come at a critical juncture in the NFL calendar, with teams making final evaluations before roster cutdowns. The Vikings’ decision to prioritize offensive line depth and special teams contributors suggests specific areas of focus as they prepare for the regular season.
Bailey’s return indicates the coaching staff’s familiarity with his abilities and character, while Valladay’s addition addresses the need for reliable special teams coverage – often a deciding factor in close games throughout the NFL season.
Looking Ahead
As the Vikings continue building their 2025 roster, these moves demonstrate a methodical approach to roster construction. The emphasis on experienced players who have navigated multiple NFL systems could prove valuable as Minnesota seeks to establish consistency across all three phases of the game.
The team will continue evaluating personnel over the coming weeks as they finalize their 53-man roster for the upcoming season. With training camp battles intensifying, every roster spot becomes increasingly valuable, making moves like these critical components of successful team building.
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