Minnesota Vikings Training Camp Thoughts

As Minnesota Vikings Training Camp approached, some of the players and competitions I was most excited to see were the following:

Jeff Okudah

Dallas Turner

Rondale Moore

Jordan Mason

Isaiah Rodgers

Donovan Jackson

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins

And, of course, J.J. McCarthy

The Vikings are approaching the completion of their first week of training camp practices. Most importantly, the team has finally had a practice in pads. Until pads, practices can be more fluff than substance. The observations from those that were lucky enough to be there revealed what often happens when pads are finally added to the process. The defense dominated. The defensive front had their way with an offensive line still missing Christian Darrisaw and Will Fries full time. From all accounts, Jonathan Allen, Javon Hargrave, Jonathan Greenard, and Dallas Turner were a rampaging, menacing bunch. They made things difficult for J.J. McCarthy and the quarterbacks. Training camp evaluations can be a puzzling thing. When the defense dominates, should we be concerned about the offense? When the offense has their way, should we be concerned about the defense? For me, I’m thrilled over the play of the defense and I see it as a needed learning experience for the offense and the young quarterbacks. Moving forward, McCarthy will be better for it. 

As for me, a fan from afar, moving forward, some of the players and competitions I’m most excited to see are the following:

Jeff Okudah

Zemaiah Vaughn

Defensive line depth/rotation

Kobe King

Jay Ward

Rondale Moore

Lucky Jackson

Silas Bolden and the returners

Jordan Mason 

Zavier Scott

I’m not sure why I even attempt to single out players that I’m excited to see. I’m excited to see all of them. I want to hear about all of the competitions and the players emerging from them. Any player stepping up is a good thing for the team. I just want to see the team come together.