A seventh-round interior lineman out of Wake Forest who has spent his early Minnesota career fighting for a foothold on the offensive line.
Michael Jurgens arrived in Minnesota as a Day 3 draft pick in 2024 after a standout final season at Wake Forest, where he graded as one of the top interior offensive linemen in the country. He has since worked his way into the Vikings' offensive line rotation as a versatile backup at center and guard.
Path to the league
Jurgens played the bulk of his college career at center for Wake Forest before shifting to guard as a senior, a move where he graded as the highest starting guard and second-highest starting interior lineman in the FBS in his final season. The Minnesota Vikings selected him in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft, No. 230 overall, via a trade with Arizona.
Career highlights
Jurgens made his NFL debut in Week 9 of his rookie season in 2024 against Indianapolis and also saw time on special teams. He has continued to develop behind Minnesota's starting offensive line, earning praise from head coach Kevin O'Connell for his growth as a young interior lineman.
2025 season recap
Jurgens played 309 offensive snaps for the Vikings in 2025 in a depth role along the interior line, working primarily at center and guard as Minnesota dealt with injuries up front during the season.
Sources
- Wikipedia: Michael Jurgens
- Pro Football Reference: Michael Jurgens
Player Profile
Background
- Position
- Center
- Group
- offense
- College
- Wake Forest
- Hometown
- Damascus, MD, USA
- Age
- 26
- Status
- active
