Vikings training camp sees increased rotation and quarterback competition updates
Minnesota Vikings held a full-pads practice under improving weather, with J.J. McCarthy showing sharper performance than Kyler Murray and punter Brett Thorson handling all field-goal attempts. Coaches noted greater player rotation and potential scheme changes on offense.
The Minnesota Vikings conducted a full-pads training camp practice on a sunny afternoon after rain cleared, featuring routine 11-on-11 drills. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy received the most first-team reps and displayed sharper execution, completing routine throws and a couple of intermediate passes, though he missed a deep sideline attempt and was sacked twice. > "McCarthy looked sharper today than Murray," a camp observer noted. Kyler Murray, who celebrated his birthday, performed at the lower end of his camp range, with several over-thrown passes, a negated deep touchdown, and an interception that was called back after a whistle.
Carson Wentz and Brooks Miller saw slightly more repetitions, but the report did not track exact snap counts. Punter Brett Thorson handled all three field-goal attempts as holder, converting each, and delivered punts estimated around 60 yards with good placement, positioning him as a contender for the punter/holder role over veteran Johnny Hekker.
Coaches emphasized increased rotation among defensive interior linemen, linebackers and defensive backs, with rotations occurring roughly every two plays. The first-team offensive line remained consistent, while skill positions and the second-team line rotated more frequently, offering younger players additional evaluation opportunities.
Defensive tackle Levi Drake-Rodriguez was highlighted for emerging as a vocal leader among the rookie interior linemen, and defensive line coach Ryan Nielson was praised for his individualized, technical instruction. Safety Jamal Adams, now wearing a new number, took snaps at safety, a positional shift to monitor.
On offense, the Vikings continued to enforce a strict no-video policy to protect potential new run-game concepts, with some early signs of scheme evolution attributed to offensive coordinator Frank Smith. Running backs Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason found limited success in team drills, though Mason, who was more efficient last season, may see an expanded role. Second-team linemen Demond Claiborne and Max Bredeson earned additional reps, suggesting they could compete for significant playing time.
Overall, the practice was described as routine, with no major shifts in the quarterback competition but notable developments in special teams and player rotation.