Minnesota Vikings training camp: Day 5 stock report
By Josh Zinger
Alex Boone, the Vikings’ biggest offensive addition, had a very impressive practice, showing well in both pass protection and run blocking. Boone’s presence figures to be a major help for left tackle Matt Kalil, and that was on full display today. In an offensive line vs. defensive line pass rushing drill, Boone and Kalil combined to stonewall Everson Griffen, completely stopping him in his tracks. While Kalil still struggled at times, he seemed to be better than he was earlier in the week, and Boone’s interior play was a major reason.
Linval Joseph was predictably powerful and explosive, generating pressure up the middle on pass rushes and stifling the running game. Joseph was particularly dominant in the 9 on 7 running drill, as he consistently took on double teams and blew up any runs up the middle. Last year Joseph emerged as one of the best nose tackles in the league, and if training camp is any indication he’s only looking to improve on that this year.
Shaun Hill appeared to rebound today after an abysmal start to training camp. While he reportedly really struggled to get enough velocity on his throws during the first four days of practice, today Hill was able to hit receivers downfield and showed just enough zip on his throws to be effective. The best example of that came when he hit speedster Terrell Sinkfield perfectly in stride fifty yards downfield. While he was hardly perfect, Hill was able to effectively run the offense and hit receivers downfield with greater regularity than in the past. Still, the backup quarterback position remains iffy at best, so Hill’s performance will be something to keep an eye on throughout the week.
Adrian Peterson practiced for the first time this training camp after sitting out with a hamstring injury, and the 31-year-old running back appeared to be his normal, explosive self. While his injury was never anything to worry about, it was good to see the aging back showcase the same agility and acceleration that fans have become accustomed to.
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