On a sunny June afternoon in Eagan, the Minnesota Vikings took to the field for their fourth practice of the Organized Team Activities (OTAs) phase, opening their doors once again to the media. With temperatures hovering in the low 80s and breezy winds gusting at 15-20 miles per hour, the perfect summer day did present a few challenges for the quarterbacks trying to connect with their targets.
One of the key takeaways from this session was the mixed performance of QB1 J.J. McCarthy. It’s essential to keep the wind conditions in mind, which can make even the most seasoned signal-callers look a bit off-kilter. This phase of practice—what head coach Kevin O’Connell describes as the “teaching and learning phase”—is all about installing schemes and building a rhythm rather than putting too much emphasis on the results right now. So, while McCarthy didn’t hit his marks as frequently as he might have hoped, fans shouldn’t read too deeply into it.
That said, McCarthy’s day wasn’t without its bumps. In live 7-on-7 drills, he threw an interception to new cornerback Isaiah Rodgers, who expertly undercut a route intended for rookie Jordan Addison. Highlighting that play was Rodgers’ promise, as he seems primed for a significant role this season. There were also moments where McCarthy held onto the ball too long—definitely not ideal in a real-game scenario—before scrambling or opting for a check-down instead.
Red zone situations at the tail end of practice were particularly challenging for McCarthy. He nearly connected with T.J. Hockenson on a seam route in the back of the end zone, a pass that could’ve been catchable with a bit more precision. An incomplete pass to Jalen Nailor also showcased the challenges, as it was broken up by Jeff Okudah. But it’s worth noting that McCarthy did deliver some quality strikes, including a few connections with superstar receiver Justin Jefferson, whose ability to stretch the field always keeps defenses on their toes.
Speaking of Jefferson, he delivered a jaw-dropping one-handed catch during individual drills that reminded everyone just how electrifying he can be whenever he’s on the field.
Nailor deserves a shout-out, too. Entering a crucial contract year, he’s embraced a new jersey number and noticeably added muscle this offseason. As the Vikings’ No. 3 wide receiver, he may need to step up as the No. 2 if Addison faces any discipline.
On the defensive side of the ball, Okudah has been getting ample reps with the first team, especially impactful with Mekhi Blackmon still working his way back from a torn ACL. The competition between Okudah, the third overall pick in the 2020 draft, and veteran Byron Murphy Jr. could reshape the secondary. Plus, with Rodgers also in the mix, there’s some exciting potential for the Vikings’ deep coverage schemes.
In an interesting twist during 11-on-11 drills, watch for dark-horse Dallas Turner to join forces with Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel on the field. With Pat Jones II no longer on the roster, those three may frequently team up on passing downs.
Lastly, undrafted rookie QB Max Brosmer had some moments of promise. He displayed quick decision-making and solid throws to recent signings Myles Price and Tai Felton during red zone drills. While it might be a stretch for Brosmer to unseat Brett Rypien for the QB3 role behind McCarthy and Sam Howell, the Vikings would be wise to keep him in their depth chart conversations, particularly for a spot on the practice squad.
Injury updates reported that Will Fries remains sidelined, and Blackmon is still not a full participant. Additionally, Rondale Moore and rookie tight end Gavin Bartholomew were seen working on a side field, while Josh Metellus and Blake Cashman were present but not engaged in the 7-on-7s. Metellus is certainly someone to keep an eye on, as discussions loom around a potential contract extension for the promising safety.
As the Vikings navigate through their offseason workouts, it’s clear there’s plenty of talent and storyline potential simmering just below the surface, making for an intriguing build-up to the season ahead.
