Jerick McKinnon bulks up for 2017 season with Minnesota Vikings
By Adam Carlson
Jerick McKinnon has been packing on some weight in preparation for the 2017 NFL season with the Minnesota Vikings hoping it will improve his game.
It is easy to feel bad for Jerick McKinnon. Other than getting a bigger role when Adrian Peterson was out due to injury or suspension, the Minnesota Vikings running back was always playing a secondary role. Even when he did get opportunities, he often times had to split the carries with Matt Asiata.
Now that both Peterson and Asiata have moved on from the Vikings, two new competitors have entered the fray at the position. Former Raiders running back Latavius Murray and rookie Dalvin Cook will be fighting for time, making McKinnon’s situation even more challenging.
However, that won’t stop the dynamic young player from working hard to improve his game. According to ESPN, McKinnon has been bulking up this offseason and has brought his weight up to 212 pounds. He also discussed his reasoning for putting on the mass.
"“When I was 200 or 198, I was just getting dinged up,” McKinnon said. “As the season goes along, for 17 weeks, it gets hard on the body, so I’m trying to keep it on for that purpose. I feel good.”More from The Viking Age6 biggest draft steals in Minnesota Vikings historyFormer Vikings first-round pick could reportedly return to NFC NorthBears analyst has extremely embarrassing Kirk Cousins take6 Vikings who (maybe) won’t make the 53-man roster in 2023Predicting what the Vikings will do in the 2023 NFL Draft based on 2022"
Being more durable in today’s NFL can be a major selling point. With the collisions and wear and tear the human body can take over the course of a season, being able to withstand more of the hits can be essential in having a long and successful career.
McKinnon has been working hard in the weight room to retain his speed and acceleration to go with his bigger body during the season.
"“I think it really just starts with the offseason that I had, and Coach Brent [Salazar] in the weight room, just on me every day about moving the weight fast, making sure I’ve got that pop to be explosive,” McKinnon said. “It feels good to be back out here, and I’m looking forward to the season.”"
Next: Expect Murray to start at RB
What kind of role Jerick McKinnon will have with the Minnesota Vikings during the 2017 NFL season is currently unknown, but hopefully he will get another opportunity to show the team, its fans, and the rest of the league how hard he is working to be the best running back he can be.