EAGAN, Minn. — The Vikings capped the second week of 2024 training camp with an extended session Saturday.
The team will have a closed walk-through practice Sunday before hitting the field at TCO Stadium Monday for the annual night practice.
The Vikings had David Quessenberry take first-team snaps at left tackle, but Christian Darrisaw dressed out. With Quessenberry moving up, the Vikings had rookies Walter Rouse and Doug Nester at left and right tackle, respectively, with the second team.
New defensive lineman Jerry Tillery was injured early in the session during a 9-on-7 drill. As members of the Health & Performance staff examined Tillery, Head Coach Kevin O'Connell and defensive lineman Harrison Phillips came over to offer their support.
A medical cart was driven on the field, but Tillery was able to stand and walk over to a golf cart. He left the field via that cart.
Guard Tyrese Robinson went to the turf later in practice, but he was able to return to action after a spell.
Here are three observations presented by Minnesota Eye Consultants, the Proud LASIK Partner of the Minnesota Vikings:
1. Extending the plays
No one is going to label Sam Darnold or J.J. McCarthy as the 21st Century's Fran Tarkenton, but both were effective in using their legs to escape the pocket, buy time and improvise.
One of the day's best highlights occurred when Darnold left the pocket and worked to his left before finding running back Aaron Jones in the end zone. Jones made an impressive leaping catch for the touchdown.
Darnold also scrambled around on a fourth-and-goal from the 5 before getting the ball to Brandon Powell for the score.
His day included occasionally changing arm angles and placing the ball well and in rhythm for several completions to Justin Jefferson on a variety of throws.
McCarthy also showed his mobility and some coolness in extending plays, as well.
2. Backed up to backbreakers
Coaches try to put players through every possible in-game scenario during a training camp, and Saturday's session included a period with the offense backed up against the goal line.
There were some learning opportunities that included a false start, but there also was a nice completion on third down from Darnold to Jefferson to move the chains. Darnold also connected with Jordan Addison for a gain to midfield, but the ball was a little late in getting to the second-year receiver.
McCarthy was able to pass the ball with requisite touch on a timing route to tight end Nick Muse for a large gain.
They showed calmness and confidence at a spot on the field where it is great to have those attributes.
The deep completions to Addison and Muse could turn into backbreakers for an opponent in games.
3. Dialing long distance
The Vikings capped the session with a kicking period for rookie Will Reichard.
After knocking one in from the 33-yard distance of an extra point, Reichard followed with accurate blasts through the uprights from 42, 46, 48, 53 and 58 yards.
Each kick had room to spare.
Minnesota opted to have punter Ryan Wright serve as the holder for all six kicks by Reichard. Wright is in competition with Seth Vernon.
