5 biggest takeaways from Vikings vs. Broncos in preseason Week 3

One step closer to a punt returner

Coming into this preseason game against the Broncos, the Minnesota Vikings seemed to have a real problem on their hands when it comes to special teams. They didn’t have one person in particular who stood out as a punt returner.

The team stuck by their guns and continued to allow Ihmir Smith-Marsette every opportunity to earn the job. It paid off this week as the young receiver made all the right decisions against the Broncos.

Smith-Marsette fielded his three fair catches well and took one punt return 21 yards to help the struggling offense out as much as possible. With no real competition this preseason, the job is likely to be his.

It’s a bit confusing why more players weren’t tried in this role during the preseason, but it seems like this job was won during training camp and the team was happy enough with what they saw to move forward with him in that role.