The Minnesota Vikings have kicked off training camp and are just a week away from their first preseason game. J.J. McCarthy is set to debut and have that be the lone exposure during the exhibition slate.
There are multiple other injuries that Kevin O’Connell’s team is dealing with, but it sounds like they are trending in the right direction. If Minnesota’s starters can remain on the field, then a roster poised to win now should be in a good spot.
Christian Darrisaw still progressing for Minnesota Vikings
Last season the MN Vikings lost Christian Darrisaw to a season-ending knee injury. He has worked extensively through the rehab process to get back on the field. It looks like he could be in play for Week 1, but Kevin O’Connell told reporters they are going to play it safe.
“What I don’t want is for there to be some level of disappointment or like something wasn’t done if that doesn’t happen. Regardless of how the next month or so plays out with his readiness and what’s best for Christian, nothing will diminish what he’s been able to accomplish, which is remarkable.”
Kevin O’Connell – Star Tribune
Darrisaw has been on the field and gotten reps with the first team. That doesn’t mean he’ll be on the field for Week 1 in Chicago, but the progress has been remarkable.
The former first round pick is among the best left tackles in the game. He has now secured he extension, and has 48 career games under his belt. After playing just seven last season, the expectation should be that he at least doubles it next year.
Related: Minnesota Vikings Add More Depth to OL
The Star Tribune’s Emily Leiker reported that Darrisaw was on the field for a couple series of 11-on-11 action on Friday. Although he had his helmet off to conclude the practice, the exposure was something Darrisaw appreciated.
“Being able to be out here with my teammates and playing the game that I love and actually getting to go against a defense full-speed, get my feet back under me, everything’s been really good. Whatever they tell me to do, I’ll come out here and do, and if things are feeling right, we keep moving.”
Christian Darrisaw – Star Tribune
This has a chance to be the best offensive line the Vikings have had in quite some time. With Will Fries and Ryan Kelly added on the interior as free agents, and Donovan Jackson through the draft, J.J. McCarthy should feel well-protected.
Justin Jefferson working back for Minnesota too
Jefferson removed himself from practice after suffering what has been called a mild hamstring strain. He understands how detrimental a serious issue can be after playing in just 10 games in 2024. Leiker reports Jefferson will begin to work back this week.
While O’Connell didn’t have a formal update on wide receiver Justin Jefferson’s hamstring strain Friday, a week after it was first announced, he said Jefferson will start the slow ramp-up of work again this week.
O’Connell also said reports about Jefferson’s injury have “been really positive.”
Jefferson started Friday’s practice on the far field working out with trainers before coming over to the main practice field and assuming his usual position alongside the wide receivers and offense consulting on practice.
He continues to wear a leg sleeve on his left leg.
Star Tribune
Last season Jefferson played 17 games for the Vikings and finished with 1,533 yards. He tied his career-best in touchdowns with 10, and pushed his career tally to 40.
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Jefferson can be the greatest asset to young quarterback J.J. McCarthy. They have already begun to develop a level of chemistry that should help to generate a consistent level of offense on the field.
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