The younger members of the Minnesota Vikings are trying to get in as many training camp reps as they can before the veterans show up on Friday.
With only a small portion of veterans at training camp so far this year for the Minnesota Vikings, the first few days are for the team’s younger players to showcase their skills.
However, the guys are who are at camp already do have the luxury of catching passes from new Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins, as he was among those who reported early on Tuesday. Cousins having one less receiver to throw to was among some of the things that went on during a pretty non-eventful second day of Minnesota’s 2018 training camp.
Coley misses practice
After recovering from an injured heel he suffered during OTAs earlier this year, Vikings wide receiver Stacy Coley sat out Thursday’s practice with a strained groin. According to the Pioneer Press’ Chris Tomasson, Coley doesn’t expect to miss too much practice time with his latest injury.
#Vikings WR Stacy Coley suffered a strained groin when running a route in practice on Wednesday and didn't practice Thursday. He's hopeful the injury won't keep him out long. "Just about for a few days,'' he said.
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) July 26, 2018
Elflein confirms his shoulder surgery
After a report began to circulate on Wednesday night about Pat Elflein undergoing shoulder surgery this offseason, the Minnesota center confirmed the news on Thursday at practice. Elflein did not elaborate on when he anticipates returning to the field, but Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer did say on Wednesday that he does not expect the center to miss too much time this summer.
Downing to coach tight ends?
As he was answering questions from the local media after Thursday’s walk-thru, Minnesota offensive coordinator John DeFilippo might have spoiled the team’s plans to fill Tony Sparano’s vacancy on the staff.
Minnesota Vikings
DeFilippo commented that Clancy Barone has been doing a great job working with the offensive line and Todd Downing has also been doing well coaching the tight ends.
It sounds like the Vikings are likely going to move Barone into Sparano’s old role and have Downing take Barone’s duties over as the team’s tight ends coach.
Thomas gets loose!
Signed as an undrafted free-agent earlier this year, rookie running back Roc Thomas is hoping to be among those selected for Minnesota’s final 2018 roster in a few weeks. If he keeps making plays like he did on Thursday, then he will likely have a spot on the team this season.
According to Vikings.com’s Eric Smith, Thomas had an impressive run that would have likely resulted in a 70-yard touchdown if it took place during an actual game situation.
The battle to be Minnesota’s third running back this year is likely going to be a close one and Thomas’ performance on Thursday showed he is very much in contention for the spot.