Vikings Training Camp 2022: Top 4 takeaways from Day 2
By Adam Carlson
Players trying to win punt return job
As previously stated, there aren’t a lot of starting roles open for players looking to latch on to the Minnesota Vikings during training camp. Most of the spots on offense and defense are already settled or part of a competition, but one role on special teams is wide open.
It should be an open competition during training camp and the preseason to determine who will be returning punts for the team. That means any speedy player with good hands could get in on the action and find a role in that spot.
Will Ragatz of SI added some names to the list of players who could take on that role, or at least individuals who stuck around after practice to work on their craft.
Jalen Nailor, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, and Albert Wilson are fielding punts from the machine after practice.
— Will Ragatz (@WillRagatz) July 28, 2022
Rookie Jalen Nailor could be the favorite based on his speed and speed and agility but veteran Albert Wilson and the returning Ihmir Smith-Marsette might both have something to say about who will win the job.
Those three will be the candidates to watch for the moment. There may be more competition for the job added soon, but at least for now the fact these players stuck around to work on fielding punts could give them an advantage.