Andrew Van Ginkel

Andrew Van Ginkel Bio

Andrew Van Ginkel is an American professional football linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League (NFL). Born on July 1, 1995, in Rock Valley, Iowa, Van Ginkel has emerged as one of the most productive defensive players in the league, earning Second-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection in 2024. After beginning his college career at the University of South Dakota and a stint at Iowa Western Community College, he finished his collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin before being selected by the Miami Dolphins in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft.

Early Life and Background

Andrew Van Ginkel grew up in Rock Valley, Iowa, where he attended Rock Valley Community High School. He played football for the Nighthawks, a consolidated team shared with Boyden-Hull High School, primarily as a quarterback and defensive back. Despite his athletic talents, Van Ginkel did not participate in recruiting camps following his senior year and did not attract significant attention from major college programs. This humble beginning set the stage for a career defined by perseverance and steady improvement.

His lack of recruiting fanfare meant Van Ginkel had to prove himself at every level, beginning his college journey at the University of South Dakota rather than at a major football program. This pathway, while unconventional, would ultimately prepare him well for the challenges of professional football.

Path to the NFL

Van Ginkel began his college career at the University of South Dakota, playing defensive end for the Coyotes. He redshirted his first season before earning first-team all Missouri Valley Football Conference honors as a freshman. However, after head coach Joe Glenn retired, Van Ginkel transferred to Iowa Western Community College, where he continued his development as a defensive end.

His standout performances at the junior college level earned him a opportunity to transfer to the University of Wisconsin for his final two seasons of college eligibility. At Wisconsin, Van Ginkel made the transition to outside linebacker, showcasing his versatility and ability to adapt his game. He finished his collegiate career with Third-team All-Big Ten honors in 2018, demonstrating the growth he had made since his humble beginnings in Iowa.

Andrew Van Ginkel Career

Miami Dolphins Era (2019-2023)

Van Ginkel was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the fifth round, 151st overall, of the 2019 NFL Draft. His rookie season was interrupted when he was placed on injured reserve on September 6, 2019. He was designated for return from injured reserve on November 13 and officially activated on November 20, giving him his first taste of NFL action late in the season.

Van Ginkel’s second season in 2020 proved to be a breakthrough campaign. On November 1, 2020, against the Los Angeles Rams, he recovered a fumble lost by Jared Goff and returned it 78 yards for a touchdown during the 28-17 victory. This play represented the second longest fumble return in Dolphins franchise history. In Week 11 against the Denver Broncos, Van Ginkel forced a fumble on running back Melvin Gordon at the goal line, demonstrating his ability to make game-changing plays in critical moments.

After his initial rookie contract expired, Van Ginkel re-signed with the Dolphins on March 23, 2023, on a one-year deal. He appeared in 14 games that season before being placed on injured reserve on January 9, 2024, ending his tenure with the team on injured reserve.

Minnesota Vikings Era (2024-Present)

On March 13, 2024, Van Ginkel signed a two-year, $20 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings, marking a new chapter in his career. His debut with the team on September 8, 2024, against the New York Giants was spectacular, as he recorded both a sack and an interception in the same game. He became only the third Vikings player since 2000, alongside Kevin Williams and Harrison Smith, to accomplish this feat in a season opener.

Van Ginkel also scored a 10-yard interception return touchdown from Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, marking the Vikings’ first pick-six since Week 17 of the 2021 season. He continued his standout play in Week 5 when the Vikings faced the New York Jets in London, scoring his second pick-six as a Viking and the third of his career after intercepting Aaron Rodgers and returning the ball 63 yards to the end zone.

In Week 16 of the 2024 season, Van Ginkel recorded five tackles and two sacks in a 27-24 victory over the Seattle Seahawks, earning NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. His dominant season continued as he was recognized with Second-team All-Pro honors and his first Pro Bowl selection. He was also ranked 88th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2025. On April 29, 2025, Van Ginkel signed a one-year contract extension with the Vikings worth $23 million, securing his future with the team.

Defensive Style and Strengths

Van Ginkel has established himself as a versatile and impactful linebacker capable of making plays both against the run and in pass coverage. His ability to rush the quarterback is evidenced by his 35.5 career sacks, while his instincts in coverage have produced five interceptions, including multiple pick-six touchdowns. His speed, closing ability, and football IQ allow him to make splash plays that change game momentum.

Notable Events and Milestones

Van Ginkel’s career has been marked by dramatic turnaround plays. His 78-yard fumble return against the Rams stands as the second longest in Dolphins history. His 2024 season with the Vikings featured multiple pick-six touchdowns and earned him NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. His selection to the Pro Bowl and being named Second-team All-Pro in 2024 represent the pinnacle of his achievements to date.

Andrew Van Ginkel Career Statistics

Across six NFL seasons, Van Ginkel has accumulated impressive defensive statistics while playing for the Miami Dolphins and Minnesota Vikings. His versatility as both a pass rusher and coverage linebacker is reflected in his all-around production.

NFL Career Highlights

Van Ginkel has recorded 383 total tackles, 35.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, five interceptions, and four defensive touchdowns throughout his professional career. His 2024 season with the Vikings was his most prolific, as he emerged as one of the premier defensive players in the league. The combination of his sack production and coverage skills makes him a rare dual-threat at the linebacker position.

College Achievements

Before his NFL success, Van Ginkel earned first-team all Missouri Valley Football Conference honors during his time at South Dakota and finished his Wisconsin career with Third-team All-Big Ten recognition in 2018. These accomplishments laid the foundation for his professional career.

Andrew Van Ginkel Family

Family Background and Personal Life

Van Ginkel is a Christian who draws strength from his faith throughout his football career. He is married to Samantha Van Ginkel, and together they have three sons. Despite his rising prominence in the NFL, Van Ginkel has maintained a focus on his family values and his religious beliefs, which have been consistent themes in interviews and public statements throughout his career.

2025 Season Performance

The 2025 season represents a pivotal year for Van Ginkel as he enters his second season with the Minnesota Vikings following his $23 million contract extension. His early success with the team in 2024, including his Pro Bowl selection and All-Pro honors, established him as a cornerstone of the Vikings’ defense. The coaching staff will look to him to continue his high level of play while mentoring younger players in the linebacker corps.

Van Ginkel’s versatility provides defensive coordinator Brian Flores with multiple options for how to deploy him within various schemes. His ability to blitz, cover, and stop the run makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing offenses. The Vikings will rely heavily on his production as they aim to compete for a playoff spot in the NFC.