Vikings and Ravens complete second day of joint preseason practices
The Minnesota Vikings and Baltimore Ravens held their second joint practice, with the Vikings' defense limiting the Ravens' offense and the Vikings' offense showing modest improvement.
Minnesota and Baltimore wrapped up the second day of joint preseason practices on Thursday, preparing for their scheduled preseason matchup on Saturday. The session was conducted under cloudy skies with intermittent rain and cooler temperatures than the previous day.
Vikings defensive units continued to restrict the Ravens’ offense, preventing any deep passes and keeping most gains short. Both first- and second-team Vikings defenses performed well in two-minute drill scenarios, limiting the Ravens to under midfield territory from their own 25-yard line.
Offensively, the Vikings displayed incremental progress. Quarterback Kirk Murray completed a deep sideline pass to Jauan Jennings that set up a 45-yard field-goal attempt, which Will Reichard successfully converted after a 15-yard penalty against the Ravens. The Vikings also executed a 50-yard two-minute drill drive that ended with the field goal.
Running back Demond Claiborne broke a 30-yard touchdown run during the final drill, prompting celebration among teammates. Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy showed improved crispness but threw an interception that could have resulted in a pick-six.
Defensive highlights included strong performances from Dallas Turner, Blake Cashman, and Jalen Redmond, as well as contributions from Caleb Banks, Eric Wilson, Levi Drake-Rodriquez, Elijah Williams, Jake Golday and Domonique Orange. Turner's pressure forced several off-target throws from Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Individual notes: Turner recorded three sacks in full-team drills; wide receiver Myles Price was the most targeted receiver and caught the majority of his targets; cornerback Charles Demmings struggled in recent drills; safety Jacob Thomas moved up the depth chart; and punter/holder Brett Thorson continued to compete with Johnny Hekker for roster consideration.
Overall, the Vikings’ defense appeared stronger than the previous day, while the offense made modest gains but still requires further development before the regular season.