With almost a week of training camp under the belt, some things are starting to come in to focus for the Minnesota Vikings.
For one, the quarterback position seems to be one of stability now, where just last week it was filled with uncertainty. Donovan McNabb gives a veteran presence and leadership, and the two backups, Christian Ponder and Joe Webb, give off an air of confidence that, other than Brett Favre, the Vikings haven’t seen since 2004 or 2005. The addition of WR Michael Jenkins has been a plus for Minnesota, as he is familiar with the offense and has made several big plays during the afternoon practice sessions.
On defense, the line seems to be progressing nicely, as Jared Allen is having a very good camp, and the revamped defensive line seems to be getting the better of the Vikings offensive line.
In the secondary, both CB’s Chris Cook and Cedric Griffin are healthy, and look to be counted on to turn around the fortunes of a secondary that was much maligned in 2010. Antoine Winfield, pound for pound the best player in the NFL, will anchor a unit that will have two new safeties starting the season, and his veteran presence will be needed early on.
Tonight, the Vikings have a practice under the lights at Blakeslee Stadium on the campus of Minnesota State University where training camp has been held for 46 years. It’s open to the public and starts at 7 PM. After the practice, there will be a fireworks display.