5 young Vikings players to watch closely at 2021 training camp
By Dean Jones
Kellen Mond – QB
Kirk Cousins is the undisputed starter at quarterback for the Vikings. There is absolutely no doubt about that.
However, it’s worth keeping a close eye on a player who is looking to take over from the Pro Bowler in the not-too-distant future.
The Minnesota Vikings decided to use a third-round pick on Kellen Mond during the 2021 NFL Draft. This came as something of a surprise considering the needs elsewhere, but those in power saw this as a real opportunity to strengthen their options once the former Texas A&M star fell out of the second round.
Mond is a work in progress, make no mistake.
He is a little rigid in his movements and decision-making is also something that needs refinement. But there is no pressure on the rookie whatsoever to come in and make an immediate impression.
This is something that could work in his favor. Mond knows that Cousins is the main man and should be aiming to acquire as much information from the veteran as possible at training camp to smooth his transition to the next level.
The signal-caller should also plenty of time under center in preseason games, which is something last year’s rookie class didn’t benefit from due to COVID-19. If Mond shines, it will a good first step to becoming a starting-caliber quarterback down the line.