Kellen Mond Criticizes Mike Zimmer in LinkedIn Post

Kellen Mond, a former quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, has transitioned from football to the arts after a tumultuous NFL career. Recently, he expressed his thoughts on LinkedIn regarding his rookie season in 2021, shedding light on the complications between Mike Zimmer and Rick Spielman during their final year with the team.

Kellen Mond Criticizes Mike Zimmer on LinkedIn

In his recent LinkedIn post, Mond recounted an astonishing lack of communication with his head coach. He stated, “When I was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings, my head coach walked out of the draft room. We never spoke. Not once.” This comment underscores the dysfunctional atmosphere surrounding the team during that time.

Disconnect Between Coach and Quarterback

Mond’s comments highlight a significant disconnect: an NFL head coach and a rookie quarterback did not communicate throughout the entire season. He emphasized that Zimmer and Spielman’s relationship had deteriorated since 2018, particularly after the signing of Kirk Cousins, which Zimmer disapproved of.

• 2021: Kellen Mond drafted by the Vikings.
• No communication with head coach Mike Zimmer.
• Relationship deterioration traced back to Kirk Cousins signing.

Reflection on Leadership

Following an 8-9 season, both Zimmer and Spielman were fired. Mond revealed that Spielman addressed the team after the news, but Zimmer was absent. He quoted Zimmer’s excuse for not speaking to the team: “They got me fired.” Such candid insights reflect the chaotic environment leading to their dismissals.

In closing, Mond shared a valuable leadership lesson learned from this experience: “Every time you show up to work, you control the energy in the building.” He stressed the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere within an organization, regardless of one’s position.

Kellen Mond’s NFL Journey

During his time in the NFL, Mond was part of the 2021 Vikings draft class, which included notable players like Pat Jones II and Chazz Surratt. His tenure saw minimal playing time; he only attempted three passes in his entire career during a game against the Green Bay Packers.

After being released by the Vikings, Mond had brief stints with the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, and New Orleans Saints. Most recently, he played for the now-defunct San Antonio Brahmas in the United Football League. As of 2025, Mond is not on any UFL roster, indicating a potential end to his football career.

Mike Zimmer, who was dismissed from the Vikings coaching staff, served as the Dallas Cowboys’ defensive coordinator in 2024 and has since seemingly retired from coaching.