Preseason Game #3

The Minnesota Vikings defeated the Philadelphia Eagles in Preseason Game #3, 26-3. After losing their previous 10 games, dating back to 2019, the Vikings ended this preseason with a perfect 3-0 record. It’s preseason. Now, it’s time for the games that count. Before that happens, the Vikings have to whittle the roster from 91 players to 53. Who helped their roster cases against the Eagles?

Jaren Hall, QB

After closing out Preseason Game #2 in fine fashion, Jaren Hall started Preseason Game #3. He’s been great this offseason. He’s looked comfortable and confident. Granted it’s been against the 2s and 3s of the Cleveland Browns and Eagles. It’s also been with the 2s and 3s on his side. 

Hall’s possessions against the Eagles:

Touchdown

Field Goal

Touchdown

Field Goal

Field Goal

Every Hall-guided possession ended with a score. The second field goal could easily have been a touchdown as Hall threw a beauty to Lucky Jackson in the end zone. Jackson couldn’t get both feet down. Before these two strong preseason performances, I thought that the Vikings could sneak Hall onto the practice squad. I no longer think that’s the case. 

Trishton Jackson, WR

I believe that Trishton Jackson didn’t need this game to improve his roster shot. He’s had a strong training camp and preseason. He added a touchdown against the Eagles to the touchdowns he’s scored in each of the previous two preseason games. Jackson is likely at least WR4 heading into the season.

Justin Hall, WR

Justin Hall was a late training camp addition. He’s only been with the Vikings for about a week. I wish that he’d had more time. He scored a touchdown and had a 20-yard catch a run. He looked explosive and active. In one game, Hall may have done enough to earn a practice squad spot. 

Levi Drake Rodriguez, DT

Like Trishton Jackson, I don’t think Levi Drake Rodriguez needed this game to make the roster. I think he’s done enough in training camp and preseason. Still, he made his presence felt again. 

Andre Carter II, OLB

Andre Carter II probably had his most impactful game with the Vikings. He has a load of raw talent. So much talent, that it almost pleads for the team to be patient. 

Dwight McGlothern, CB

I believe Dwight McGlothern also came into this game with a roster spot sealed. If he hadn’t, his play in this game probably secured it. He has a bright future in Minnesota. 

Will Reichard, K

He won the kicking job weeks ago. After decades of kicking frustration, this is the best I’ve felt about the Vikings kicker. 

As for some players that may be on the wrong side of the roster bubble, I’m real concerned about the Vikings future of 2022 top draft picks Lewis Cine, Brian Asamoah, and Akayleb Evans.