What changed
2026-08-08 01:36 UTC → 2026-08-23 12:34 UTC ·
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Minnesota Vikings rookie development and roster developments
In late July, the Vikings announced As the draft of fullback Max Bredeson and running back Demond Claiborne, outlining plans to use Bredeson as a lead blocker Minnesota Vikings' preseason progresses, several rookies and expecting Claiborne’s speed to boost veterans have shaped the ground game. By team's early August, training camp showed Bredeson impressing coaches with narrative. Head coach Kevin O'Connell has praised rookie tight end Max Bredeson, describing his size and athleticism, while fifth‑round pick performance as “really, really good” following his transition from fullback. Defensive back Charles Demmings has also emerged as a defensive standout, making key drawing attention for aggressive play and pass deflections and tackles against star receivers. Later in receiver Justin Jefferson. On the camp, defensive side, the team has moved veteran safety Jamal Adams was shifted back from linebacker back to his natural safety position, changing his a shift accompanied by a jersey number change from 54 to comply with 32 to meet NFL rules, signaling regulations. Adding to the depth in the secondary, undrafted rookie safety Jacob Thomas has become a renewed focus on strong candidate for the secondary. Demmings continued to draw praise final roster. O'Connell characterized Thomas as “really smart,” “instinctive,” and a top performer in “great find” after the defensive backfield, and Bredeson earned additional commendation for his effort player recorded six tackles and technique. Meanwhile, center a pass defense during a Week 2 preseason matchup. Despite these successes, challenges remain in other units. Center Blake Brandel has struggled with shotgun snaps, and quarterback J.J. McCarthy did not has yet to secure a clear starting role role, as the team leaned toward continues to utilize Kyler Murray for most first‑team snaps. The evolving snapshots trace the Vikings’ roster adjustments and the early impact majority of multiple rookies as preseason progresses. first-team snaps.