The departure of Andrew Van Ginkel from the Miami Dolphins might sting more than the team anticipated. While the Dolphins might one day lament not having Christian Wilkins, Xavien Howard, and Robert Hunt, the absence of Van Ginkel is already felt. His transition to the Minnesota Vikings not only feels natural but also necessary—a move that Miami might regret not preventing.
Van Ginkel, with his iconic flowing blonde hair, already seems at home among the Vikings, evoking the robust spirit of a Norse warrior. His aesthetic fit is undeniable, but his on-field prowess and leadership are what the Dolphins will miss most.
The linebacker left Miami to join the Vikings as a free agent, amid speculation that the Dolphins made little effort to keep him. This decision has left many fans questioning the logic, as Van Ginkel’s contributions at camp for the Vikings have only highlighted what Miami is missing out on.
A recent video from a Vikings practice shows Van Ginkel making an impressive interception, a reminder to Dolphins fans of his impactful gameplay and the void his departure has left. Van Ginkel is poised for another strong season, constantly demonstrating his innate ability to be around the football, as evidenced by a pick-six during practice. While these moments might seem minor, they epitomize Van Ginkel’s relentless play style, which Dolphins fans had come to admire.
For Vikings, acquiring Van Ginkel is a win. He brings an irreplaceable combination of energy, durability, and consistency—qualities that every team values highly. Though he may not be a fixture in the NFL Top 100 players or a regular at the Pro Bowl, Van Ginkel’s commitment to playing at full capacity, staying healthy, and maintaining a high level of performance in every game ensures that he is a relentless force on the field.
As the season progresses, the Vikings will undoubtedly benefit from Van Ginkel’s dynamic presence, while the Dolphins might find themselves reflecting on what could have been if they had secured their defensive stalwart for more seasons.