For the first time, the NFL Player’s Association released their team report cards on Wednesday.
The report cards polled 1,300 players, who provided information about their current teams. According to the press release, the NFLPA’s goals “were to highlight positive clubs, identify areas that could use improvement, and highlight best practices and standards.”
NFL teams were graded on eight categories with a grading range of F to A+. The eight categories included: treatment of families, nutrition, weight room, strength staff, training room, locker room, and travel.
The Minnesota Vikings were the valedictorians of the survey, finishing first among all 32 NFL franchises.
The report card mentioned that all players felt like owner Zygi Wilf is willing to spend money to upgrade their facilities. It also called Kevin O’Connell “one of the most player-friendly coaches.”
The overview finished saying that the Vikings “are a shining example of what is possible when a concerted investment is made in both staffing and facilities.”
Here is how the Vikings graded out in each category.
Treatment of Families
Grade: A
Rank: T-2nd out of 32
The Vikings received glowing reviews from players on how they treated their families. The organization ranked 7th in support of players’ families, with the NFLPA citing that the Vikings offered a family room and daycare. They were also 2nd in the league for their post-game gathering area.
Nutrition
Grade: A-
Rank: T-5th out of 32
The Minnesota Vikings were praised for their cafeteria, with 100% of players saying there is enough room. Regarding food quality, the Vikings come in 9th place. The NFLPA specifically mentioned that they provide all three meals.
Weight Room
Grade: A
Rank: T-5 out of 32
The Vikings’ weight room was built in 2018 and received glowing reviews. The report card explains that “the weight room is new and players are happy with it.” 98% of the players felt like the Vikings had enough strength coaches.
Strength Coaches
Grade: A+
Rank: T-1st out of 32
Players offered heaps of praise for the Vikings’ strength coaches, stating that “the strength coaches go above and beyond to support them and add to their success.” Every player also believed they received an individual plan, which tied for 1st in the league.
Training Room
Grade: A+
Rank: T-1st out of 32
The Minnesota Vikings received strong reviews in both staff and facilities. Regarding staff, 95% of players felt the Vikings had enough athletic trainers (ATCs), and 92% said they had enough physical therapists (PTs).
The Vikings offer a steam room and sauna, which 100% of players said were big enough. 98% of players also said there is enough hot and cold tub space.
Training Staff
Grade: A+
Rank: T-1st out of 32
The Minnesota Vikings’ new training staff was “a welcome change from the previous regime.” The report card stated that several players had a negative experience with the old head trainer. Players felt the training staff went above and beyond to help them.
Locker Room
Grade: A+
Rank: T-1st out of 32
Players had no complaints regarding the Vikings’ new locker room. Every player felt like the locker room had enough space, which was the best in the league.
Team Travel
Grade: A
Rank: T-4th out of 32
The Vikings offered “a good amount of first-class seats,” and 95% of players felt they had enough room to spread out. Players also do not have roommates during their trips.
