The mandatory mini-camp for the Minnesota Vikings continued on Wednesday at the TCO Performance Center, drawing the attention of owner Zygi Wilf, who observed the proceedings on the practice field. This came on the heels of the team’s significant commitment to star receiver Justin Jefferson, securing his presence in Minnesota with a lucrative four-year, $140 million contract, featuring $110 million guaranteed. Following Wednesday’s session, which unfolded amid challenging windy conditions, players such as Jonathan Greenard, Aaron Jones, and Jordan Addison shared their thoughts with the media.
Greenard, a notable offseason acquisition from the Houston Texans, emerged as a key figure in the Vikings’ plans. Having notched an impressive 12.5 sacks in 15 starts last season, Greenard is poised to step into the void left by Danielle Hunter in Brian Flores’ defensive scheme. Reflecting on his expectations for the upcoming season, Greenard emphasized an aggressive approach, aligning with Flores’ coaching style to dictate the tempo of play. Additionally, he introduced a team bonding activity from his time with the Texans – a rigorous 10-minute abs routine, which has garnered participation from defensive teammates, underscoring its value in strengthening core muscles.
Jones, another notable free agent signing, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure with the Green Bay Packers. Despite accumulating 656 rushing yards and two touchdowns in 11 games during the 2023 season, Jones opted to join the Vikings after the Packers declined to meet his contract demands. Now assuming a leadership role in Minnesota’s running back corps, Jones expressed gratitude for the opportunity, attributing his move to the Vikings as part of a larger divine plan.
Meanwhile, Addison aims to build upon a promising rookie campaign, where he tallied 70 receptions for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns. As he transitions into a more seasoned role within the receiving unit, Addison embraces the opportunity to mentor younger players, viewing the process as mutually beneficial for his own development.
With one more day of mandatory mini-camp scheduled for Thursday, followed by the conclusion of organized team activities next week, the Vikings prepare for a six-week summer hiatus before gearing up for training camp and the upcoming season. As they navigate the offseason landscape, the team remains focused on building cohesion and maximizing player development in anticipation of the challenges ahead.
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