Phase 1 of offseason workout program begins for Minnesota Vikings

Aug 1, 2016; Mankato, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Stefon Diggs (14) catches a pass at training camp at Minnesota State University. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 1, 2016; Mankato, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Stefon Diggs (14) catches a pass at training camp at Minnesota State University. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Minnesota Vikings players are arriving at Winter Park for phase 1 of their offseason workout program in preparation for the 2017 NFL season.

Football fans have it rough. Aside from the preseason, regular season, playoffs, draft, and free agent frenzy, there is a lot of down time when there isn’t much news in the world of the Minnesota Vikings.

However, Minnesota’s professional football squad took a step toward getting back on the field today, as it was the first day of phase 1 for team workouts for the players and strength/conditioning coaches to get together during their offseason program according to the official website of the team.

Of course, this part of the offseason is unique in these workouts being optional. The voluntary program typically gets a solid turnout from the Vikings players who are looking to not only get in football shape but show the team they are serious about success this season.

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Here are the rules for phase 1 of the offseason workouts:

  • First two weeks of the offseason program
  • Limited to strength and conditioning, and physical rehab
  • Strength and conditioning coaches only; no position coaches permitted to participate
  • No footballs, exception being quarterbacks may throw to uncovered receivers
  • No helmets permitted

Phase 2 of the offseason workouts will begin in approximately 2 weeks and that is when other coaches can join in and work on specific things with the players in a no-contact situation with no offense/defense play.

Next: Vikings free agency tracker

This is a great step toward getting players back on the field for regular season action, but there is still quite a while to go before that happens. Still, fans can look forward to other events, such as the 2017 NFL Draft later this month for more excitement and intrigue.