Despite his suspension, Floyd is still finding ways to help the Vikings
By Adam Patrick
The Minnesota Vikings receiver cannot play in a game until Week 5, but that has not prevented him from giving his teammates advice during their weekly preparations.
After having a forgetful 2016 NFL season that included a DUI arrest and an eventual release from the Arizona Cardinals, Michael Floyd was given a second-chance by the Minnesota Vikings this offseason. The Vikings agreed on a deal to bring the receiver in this year despite the fact that he was likely facing a suspension from the NFL.
As Minnesota prepared for training camp this past July, it was revealed that Floyd had been suspended by the league for the team’s first four games of the 2017 season. But since the receiver’s suspension was the result of him violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy, he has been allowed to attend team meetings and workout at the Vikings facilities while he serves his penalty.
Even though he cannot help Minnesota out on the field until Week 5, Floyd has been doing his best to contribute to the team in other ways this season. At least that is according to Vikings receiver Stefon Diggs on Thursday.
"“Mike’s been at everything, everything that he can be. I see Mike everyday. He’s out right now, but he’s as helpful as he can be as far as like how (defenders) play. He’s seen a lot of guys since he’s been in the league and (he helps with) things that we can do to help our games (during a) specific game. So Mike helps out as much as he can. He’s still an asset in the (meeting) room.”"
Floyd seems to be adding a veteran presence to Minnesota’s young receiving corp this even without having even stepped on the field.
When his suspension is up in Week 5, it will be interesting to see how the Vikings try and work him into their offense. With his size (6-foot-3, 220 pounds) and speed (4.47 40-yard dash), Floyd should add another unique wrinkle to the team’s passing attack this season.
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Hopefully Minnesota will know who will be throwing him the ball by then.