Vikings Training Camp 2023: Top takeaways from padded practice

Vikings takeaway No. 5

A rookie corner is working with the first team.

Much emphasis from the first padded practice of training camp for the Minnesota Vikings seemed to be focused on the defensive backs. It is difficult to tell who is moving up the depth chart when the team is using so many combinations of players.

This time, it was Vikings' second-round pick Mekhi Blackmon that was finding some first-team work in the red zone period according to beat writer Will Ragatz of FanNation on the Sports Illustrated website.

Previously Byron Murphy Jr. and Akayleb Evans were acting as the starting corners with Joejuan Williams taking on nickel duties but today saw Blackmon slide into that starting trio next to Murphy and Evans.

It's great to see young talent getting a look in this situation. Plus the reports of his back-and-forth coverage of rookie receiver Jordan Addison seemed like a lot of fun to watch. He will be one to keep an eye on going forward.