Training Camp 2017

The

Final Voyage

After 52 years of making Mankato their summer home, the Minnesota Vikings with QB Sam Bradford, hope to make their final visit a memorable one

2 • MSU REPORTER

THE FINAL VOYAGE

2017 VIKIN GS CA M P ROSTER # 12 20 55 64 61 75 64 8 63 40 31 81 86 76 68 13 76 33 14 62 65 32 18 2 79 15 42 97 30 41 6 69 84 99 63 94 92 16 95 98 27 7 54 67 1 59 56

NAME Adams, Rodney Alexander, Mackensie Barr, Anthony Beavers, Willie Berger, Joe Boone, Alex Bower, Tashawn Bradford, Sam Bradley, Dylan Brothers, Kentrell Brown, Sam Böhringer, Moritz Carter, Kyle Clements, Chunky Clemmings, T.J. Coley, Stacy Collins, Aviante Cook, Dalvin Diggs, Stefon Easton, Nick Elflein, Pat Exum Jr., Antone Floyd, Michael Forbath, Kai Fragel, Reid Fruechte, Isaac Gedeon, Ben Griffen, Everson Ham, C.J. Harris, Anthony Heinicke, Taylor Hill, Rashod Hodges, Bucky Hunter, Danielle Isidora, Danny Johnson, Jaleel Johnson, Tom Jones, Cayleb Jones, Datone Joseph, Linval Kearse, Jayron Keenum, Case Kendricks, Eric Kerin, Zac Koehn, Marshall Lamur, Emmanuel Lee, Elijah

POS. HT. WR 6-1 CB 5-10 LB 6-5 T 6-5 C 6-5 G 6-8 DE 6-5 QB 6-4 DT 6-1 LB 6-1 DB 6-1 WR 6-4 TE 6-3 DT 6-2 T 6-5 WR 6-1 OT 6-6 RB 5-11 WR 6-0 C 6-3 C 6-3 S 6-0 WR 6-2 K 5-11 T 6-8 WR 6-3 LB 6-2 DE 6-3 FB 5-11 S 6-1 QB 6-1 T 6-6 TE 6-6 DE 6-5 OG 6-3 DT 6-3 DT 6-3 WR 6-2 DE 6-4 DT 6-4 S 6-4 QB 6-1 LB 6-0 G 6-5 K 6-0 LB 6-4 LB 6-2

WT. 189 192 255 322 305 310 250 224 265 242 180 225 245 295 309 195 295 213 191 303 303 219 220 197 308 210 244 273 235 192 210 309 257 252 306 316 288 209 285 329 215 205 232 305 205 245 229

AGE EXP. COLLEGE 22 0 South Florida 23 2 Clemson 25 4 UCLA 23 2 Western Michigan 35 13 Michigan Tech 30 8 Ohio State 22 0 LSU 29 8 Oklahoma 22 0 Southern Mississippi 24 2 Missouri 24 0 Missouri Western State 23 2 Germany 24 1 Penn State 22 0 Illinois 25 3 Pittsburgh 23 0 Miami (Fla.) 24 0 Texas Christian 21 0 Florida State 23 3 Maryland 25 3 Harvard 23 0 Ohio State 26 4 Virginia Tech 27 6 Notre Dame 29 6 UCLA 26 2 Ohio State 26 2 Minnesota 22 0 Michigan 29 8 USC 24 1 Augustana 25 3 Virginia 24 3 Old Dominion 25 2 Southern Mississippi 21 0 Virginia Tech 22 3 LSU 23 0 Miami (Fla.) 23 0 Iowa 32 7 Southern Mississippi 24 1 Arizona 27 5 UCLA 28 8 East Carolina 23 2 Clemson 29 5 Houston 25 3 UCLA 25 3 Toledo 24 1 Iowa 28 6 Kansas State 21 0 Kansas State

# 3 66 47 21 89 44 23 60 24 87 4 71 72 29 38 36 51 96 82 42 34 83 74 35 37 78 22 93 90 9 66 19 39 11 85 26 91 50 17

NAME Lunt, Wes McCaskill, Sam McDermott, Kevin McKinnon, Jerick Morgan, David Newby, Terrell Newman, Terence Odenigbo, Ifeadi Price, Jabari Price, Josiah Quigley, Ryan Reiff, Riley Remmers, Mike Rhodes, Xavier Richardson, Horace Roberson, Tre Robinson, Edmond Robison, Brian Rudolph, Kyle Sankey, Bishop Sendejo, Andrew Shelton, R.J. Shepherd, Austin Sherels, Marcus Sinkfield, Terrell Sirles, Jeremiah Smith, Harrison Stephen, Shamar Sutton, Will Symmank, Taylor Tagaloa, Freddie Thielen, Adam Tocho, Jack Treadwell, Laquon Truesdell, Nick Waynes, Trae Weatherly, Stephen Wilson, Eric Wright, Jarius

POS. HT. QB 6-5 DE 6-3 LS 6-5 RB 5-9 TE 6-4 RB 5-10 CB 5-10 DL 6-3 CB 5-11 TE 6-4 P 6-3 T 6-6 T 6-5 CB 6-1 CB 6-0 CB 6-0 LB 6-3 DE 6-3 TE 6-6 RB 5-10 S 6-1 WR 5-11 T 6-4 CB 5-10 CB 6-1 G / T 6-6 S 6-2 DT 6-5 DT 6-0 P 6-2 G 6-8 WR 6-2 S 6-0 WR 6-2 TE 6-7 CB 6-0 DE 6-5 LB 6-2 WR 5-10

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WT. 225 240 240 205 265 200 197 258 200 243 188 305 310 218 212 200 245 259 265 209 210 205 327 175 200 315 214 310 297 193 316 200 202 215 252 190 265 225 191

AGE EXP. COLLEGE 23 0 Illinois 23 0 Boise State 27 4 UCLA 25 3 Georgia Southern 24 0 Texas San Antonio 22 0 Nebraska 38 14 Kansas State 23 0 Northwestern 24 3 North Carolina 24 0 Michigan State 27 4 Boston College 28 5 Iowa 28 4 Oregon State 27 4 Florida State 23 0 Southern Methodist 24 0 Illinois State 25 2 Newberry 34 10 Texas 27 6 Notre Dame 24 3 Washington 29 6 Rice 23 0 Michigan State 25 2 Alabama 29 6 Minnesota 26 1 Northern Iowa 25 3 Nebraska 28 5 Notre Dame 26 3 UCONN 25 3 Arizona State 24 0 Texas Tech 23 0 Arizona 26 3 Minnesota State 21 0 North Carolina State 22 0 Ole Miss 27 1 Grand Rapids CC 25 2 Michigan State 23 0 Vanderbilt 23 0 Cincinnati 27 5 Arkansas

ACTIVE/NON-FOOTBALL INJURY # NAME POS. HT. WT. 73 Floyd, Sharrif DT 6-3 311

AGE EXP. 26 5

COLLEGE Florida

ACTIVE/PHYSICALLY UNABLE # NAME 5 Bridgewater, Teddy 25 Murray, Latavius 57 Washington, Shaan

AGE EXP. 24 4 27 4 23 0

COLLEGE Louisville Central Florida Texas A&M

TO PERFORM POS. HT. QB 6-2 RB 6-3 LB 6-3

Front Cover Illustration courtesy of Derek Wehrwein

The Home of the Mile Long Buffet

ALPHABETICAL

WT. 215 230 220

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 3

2017 N FL WEEKLY SCHEDU LE WEEK 1

Thursday, Sept. 7, 2017 Chiefs at Patriots 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017 Jets at Bills 1 p.m.

Falcons at Bears 1 p.m.

Ravens at Bengals 1 p.m.

Steelers at Browns 1 p.m.

Cardinals at Lions 1 p.m.

Jaguars at Texans 1 p.m.

Buccaneers at Dolphins 1 p.m.

Raiders at Titans 1 p.m.

Eagles at Redskins 1 p.m.

Colts at Rams 4:05 p.m.

Seahawks at Packers 4:25 p.m.

Panthers at 49ers 4:25 p.m.

Giants at Cowboys 8:30 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 11, 2017 Saints at Vikings 7:10 p.m.

Chargers at Broncos 10:20 p.m.

NBC CBS Fox CBS CBS Fox CBS Fox CBS Fox CBS Fox Fox NBC

NFLN CBS CBS Fox CBS Fox CBS Fox Fox CBS CBS Fox Fox Fox NBC ESPN

WEEK 3

Thursday, Sept. 21, 2017 Rams at 49ers 8:25 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 24, 2017 Ravens at Jaguars (London) 9:30 a.m.

Broncos at Bills 1 p.m.

Saints at Panthers 1 p.m.

Steelers at Bears 1 p.m.

Falcons at Lions 1 p.m.

Browns at Colts 1 p.m.

Buccaneers at Vikings 1 p.m.

Texans at Patriots 1 p.m.

Dolphins at Jets 1 p.m.

Giants at Eagles 1 p.m.

Seahawks at Titans 4:05 p.m.

Bengals at Packers 4:25 p.m.

Chiefs at Chargers 4:25 p.m.

Raiders at Redskins 8:30 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 25, 2017 Cowboys at Cardinals 8:30 p.m.

WEEK 4

NFLN TBD CBS Fox CBS Fox CBS Fox CBS CBS Fox Fox CBS CBS NBC ESPN

Thursday, Sept. 28, 2017 Bears at Packers 8:25 p.m. C BS/NFLN/Amazon Sunday, Oct. 1, 2017 Saints at Dolphins (London) 9:30 a.m.

Fox Bills at Falcons 1 p.m.

CBS Steelers at Ravens 1 p.m.

CBS Bengals at Browns 1 p.m.

CBS Rams at Cowboys 1 p.m.

Fox Titans at Texans 1 p.m.

CBS Lions at Vikings 1 p.m.

Fox Panthers at Patriots 1 p.m.

Fox

CBS Fox Fox Fox CBS NBC ESPN

WEEK 5

ESPN ESPN

WEEK 2

Thursday, Sept. 14, 2017 Texans at Bengals 8:25 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 17, 2017 Browns at Ravens 1 p.m.

Bills at Panthers 1 p.m.

Cardinals at Colts 1 p.m.

Titans at Jaguars 1 p.m.

Eagles at Chiefs 1 p.m.

Patriots at Saints 1 p.m.

Vikings at Steelers 1 p.m.

Bears at Buccaneers 1 p.m.

Dolphins at Chargers 4:05 p.m.

Jets at Raiders 4:05 p.m.

Cowboys at Broncos 4:25 p.m.

Redskins at Rams 4:25 p.m.

49ers at Seahawks 4:25 p.m.

Packers at Falcons 8:30 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 18, 2017 Lions at Giants 8:30 p.m.

Jaguars at Jets 1 p.m.

49ers at Cardinals 4:05 p.m.

Eagles at Chargers 4:05 p.m.

Giants at Buccaneers 4:05 p.m.

Raiders at Broncos 4:25 p.m.

Colts at Seahawks 8:30 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 2, 2017 Redskins at Chiefs 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 5, 2017 Patriots at Buccaneers 8:25 p.m. CBS/NFLN/ Amazon Sunday, Oct. 8, 2017 Bills at Bengals 1 p.m.

CBS Jets at Browns 1 p.m.

Fox Panthers at Lions 1 p.m.

Fox 49ers at Colts 1 p.m.

Fox Titans at Dolphins 1 p.m.

CBS Chargers at Giants 1 p.m.

CBS Cardinals at Eagles 1 p.m.

Fox Jaguars at Steelers 1 p.m.

CBS Seahawks at Rams 4:05 p.m.

CBS Ravens at Raiders 4:05 p.m.

CBS Packers at Cowboys 4:25 p.m.

Fox Chiefs at Texans * 8:30 p.m.

NBC Monday, Oct. 9, 2017 Vikings at Bears 8:30 p.m.

ESPN BYES: ATLANTA, DENVER, NEW ORLEANS, WASHINGTON

WEEK 6

Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017 Eagles at Panthers 8:25 p.m. C BS/NFLN/ Amazon Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017 Dolphins at Falcons 1 p.m.

CBS Bears at Ravens 1 p.m.

Fox Browns at Texans 1 p.m.

CBS Packers at Vikings 1 p.m.

Fox Lions at Saints 1 p.m.

Fox Patriots at Jets 1 p.m.

CBS 49ers at Redskins 1 p.m.

Fox Buccaneers at Cardinals 4:05 p.m.

Fox Rams at Jaguars 4:05 p.m.

Fox Steelers at Chiefs 4:25 p.m.

CBS Chargers at Raiders 4:25 p.m.

CBS Giants at Broncos * 8:30 p.m.

NBC Monday, Oct. 16, 2017 Colts at Titans 8:30 p.m.

ESPN BYES: BUFFALO, CINCINNATI, DALLAS, SEATTLE

WEEK 7

Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017 Chiefs at Raiders 8:25 p.m. C BS/NFLN/ Amazon Sunday, Oct. 22, 2017 Buccaneers at Bills 1 p.m.

Fox Panthers at Bears 1 p.m.

Fox Titans at Browns 1 p.m.

CBS Saints at Packers 1 p.m.

Fox Jaguars at Colts 1 p.m.

CBS Cardinals at Rams (London) 1 p.m.

Fox Jets at Dolphins 1 p.m.

Fox Ravens at Vikings 1 p.m.

CBS Bengals at Steelers 1 p.m.

CBS Cowboys at 49ers 4:05 p.m.

Fox Broncos at Chargers 4:25 p.m.

CBS Seahawks at Giants 4:25 p.m.

CBS Falcons at Patriots * 8:30 p.m.

NBC Monday, Oct. 23, 2017 Redskins at Eagles 8:30 p.m.

ESPN BYES: DETROIT, HOUSTON

WEEK 8

Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017 Dolphins at Ravens 8:25 p.m. CBS/NFLN/ Amazon Sunday, Oct. 29, 2017 Vikings at Browns (London) 9:30 a.m.

NFLN Raiders at Bills 1 p.m.

CBS Colts at Bengals 1 p.m.

CBS Chargers at Patriots 1 p.m.

CBS Bears at Saints 1 p.m.

Fox Falcons at Jets 1 p.m.

Fox 49ers at Eagles 1 p.m.

Fox Panthers at Buccaneers 1 p.m.

Fox Texans at Seahawks 4:05 p.m.

CBS Cowboys at Redskins 4:25 p.m.

Fox Steelers at Lions * 8:30 p.m.

NBC Monday, Oct. 30, 2017 Broncos at Chiefs 8:30 p.m.

ESPN BYES: ARIZONA, GREEN BAY, JACKSONVILLE, L.A. RAMS, N.Y. GIANTS, TENNESSEE

WEEK 9

Thursday, Nov. 2, 2017 Bills at Jets 8:25 p.m.

NFLN Sunday, Nov. 5, 2017 Falcons at Panthers 1 p.m.

Fox Colts at Texans 1 p.m.

CBS Bengals at Jaguars 1 p.m.

CBS Buccaneers at Saints 1 p.m.

Fox Rams at Giants 1 p.m.

Fox Broncos at Eagles 1 p.m.

CBS Ravens at Titans 1 p.m.

CBS Cardinals at 49ers 4:05 p.m.

Fox Redskins at Seahawks 4:05 p.m.

Fox Chiefs at Cowboys 4:25 p.m.

CBS Raiders at Dolphins * 8:30 p.m.

NBC Monday, Nov. 6, 2017 Lions at Packers 8:30 p.m.

ESPN BYES: CHICAGO, CLEVELAND, L.A. CHARGERS, MINNESOTA, NEW ENGLAND, PITTSBURGH

WEEK 10

Thursday, Nov. 9, 2017 Seahawks at Cardinals 8:25 p.m. NBC/NFLN/ Amazon Sunday, Nov. 12, 2017 Saints at Bills 1 p.m.

Fox Packers at Bears 1 p.m.

Fox Browns at Lions 1 p.m.

CBS Steelers at Colts 1 p.m.

CBS Chargers at Jaguars 1 p.m.

CBS Jets at Buccaneers 1 p.m.

CBS Bengals at Titans 1 p.m.

Fox Vikings at Redskins 1 p.m.

Fox Texans at Rams 4:05 p.m.

CBS Cowboys at Falcons 4:25 p.m.

Fox Giants at 49ers 4:25 p.m.

Fox Patriots at Broncos * 8:30 p.m.

NBC Monday, Nov. 13, 2017 Dolphins at Panthers 8:30 p.m.

ESPN BYES: BALTIMORE, KANSAS CITY, OAKLAND, PHILADELPHIA

WEEK 11

Thursday, Nov. 16, 2017 Titans at Steelers 8:25 p.m. NBC/NFLN/ Amazon Sunday, Nov. 19, 2017 Lions at Bears 1 p.m.

Fox Jaguars at Browns 1 p.m.

CBS Ravens at Packers 1 p.m.

CBS Cardinals at Texans 1 p.m.

Fox Rams at Vikings 1 p.m.

Fox Redskins at Saints 1 p.m.

Fox Chiefs at Giants 1 p.m.

CBS

Bills at Chargers 4:05 p.m.

Fox Bengals at Broncos 4:25 p.m.

CBS Patriots at Raiders (Mexico City) 4:25 p.m. CBS Eagles at Cowboys * 8:30 p.m.

NBC Monday, Nov. 20, 2017 Falcons at Seahawks 8:30 p.m.

ESPN BYES: CAROLINA, INDIANAPOLIS, MIAMI, N.Y. JETS, SAN FRANCISCO, TAMPA BAY

WEEK 12

Thursday, Nov. 23, 2017 Vikings at Lions 12:30 p.m.

Chargers at Cowboys 4:30 p.m.

Giants at Redskins 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 26, 2017 Buccaneers at Falcons 1 p.m.

Browns at Bengals 1 p.m.

Titans at Colts 1 p.m.

Bills at Chiefs 1 p.m.

Dolphins at Patriots 1 p.m.

Panthers at Jets 1 p.m.

Bears at Eagles 1 p.m.

Saints at Rams 4:05 p.m.

Seahawks at 49ers 4:05 p.m.

Jaguars at Cardinals 4:25 p.m.

Broncos at Raiders 4:25 p.m.

Packers at Steelers * 8:30 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 27, 2017 Texans at Ravens 8:30 p.m.

Fox CBS NBC Fox CBS CBS CBS CBS Fox Fox Fox Fox CBS CBS NBC ESPN

WEEK 13

Thursday, Nov. 30, 2017 Redskins at Cowboys 8:25 p.m. N BC/NFLN/ Amazon Sunday, Dec. 3, 2017 Vikings at Falcons 1 p.m.

Fox Lions at Ravens 1 p.m.

Fox Patriots at Bills 1 p.m.

CBS 49ers at Bears 1 p.m.

CBS Buccaneers at Packers 1 p.m.

Fox Colts at Jaguars 1 p.m.

CBS Broncos at Dolphins 1 p.m.

CBS Panthers at Saints 1 p.m.

Fox Chiefs at Jets 1 p.m.

CBS Texans at Titans 1 p.m.

CBS Browns at Chargers 4:05 p.m.

CBS Rams at Cardinals 4:25 p.m.

Fox Giants at Raiders 4:25 p.m.

Fox Eagles at Seahawks * 8:30 p.m.

NBC Monday, Dec. 4, 2017 Steelers at Bengals 8:30 p.m.

ESPN

WEEK 14

Thursday, Dec. 7, 2017 Saints at Falcons 8:25 p.m. N BC/NFLN/ Amazon Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017 Colts at Bills 1 p.m.

CBS Vikings at Panthers 1 p.m.

CBS Bears at Bengals 1 p.m.

Fox Packers at Browns 1 p.m.

Fox 49ers at Texans 1 p.m.

Fox Seahawks at Jaguars 1 p.m.

Fox Raiders at Chiefs 1 p.m.

CBS Lions at Buccaneers 1 p.m.

Fox Titans at Cardinals 4:05 p.m.

CBS Jets at Broncos 4:05 p.m.

CBS Redskins at Chargers 4:05 p.m.

CBS Eagles at Rams 4:25 p.m.

Fox Cowboys at Giants 4:25 p.m.

Fox Ravens at Steelers * 8:30 p.m.

NBC Monday, Dec. 11, 2017

Patriots at Dolphins 8:30 p.m.

ESPN

WEEK 15

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017 Broncos at Colts 8:25 p.m. N BC/NFLN/ Amazon Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017 Bears at Lions 4:30 p.m.

NFLN Chargers at Chiefs 8:25 p.m.

NFLN Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017 Dolphins at Bills 1 p.m.

CBS Packers at Panthers 1 p.m.

Fox Ravens at Browns 1 p.m.

CBS Texans at Jaguars 1 p.m.

CBS Bengals at Vikings 1 p.m.

CBS Jets at Saints 1 p.m.

CBS Eagles at Giants 1 p.m.

Fox Cardinals at Redskins 1 p.m.

Fox Rams at Seahawks 4:05 p.m.

Fox Patriots at Steelers 4:25 p.m.

CBS Titans at 49ers 4:25 p.m.

CBS Cowboys at Raiders * 8:30 p.m.

NBC Monday, Dec. 18, 2017 Falcons at Buccaneers 8:30 p.m.

ESPN

WEEK 16

Saturday, Dec. 23, 2017 Colts at Ravens 4:30 p.m.

NFLN Vikings at Packers 8:30 p.m.

NBC Sunday, Dec. 24, 2017 Buccaneers at Panthers 1 p.m.

Fox Browns at Bears 1 p.m.

CBS Lions at Bengals 1 p.m.

Fox Dolphins at Chiefs 1 p.m.

CBS Bills at Patriots 1 p.m.

CBS Falcons at Saints 1 p.m.

Fox Chargers at Jets 1 p.m.

CBS Rams at Titans 1 p.m.

Fox Broncos at Redskins 1 p.m.

CBS Jaguars at 49ers 4:05 p.m.

CBS Giants at Cardinals 4:25 p.m.

Fox Seahawks at Cowboys 4:25 p.m.

Fox Monday, Dec. 25, 2017 Steelers at Texans 4:30 p.m. N BC/NFLN/ Amazon Raiders at Eagles 8:30 p.m.

ESPN

WEEK 17

Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017

Panthers at Falcons 1 p.m.

Bengals at Ravens 1 p.m.

Packers at Lions 1 p.m.

Texans at Colts 1 p.m.

Bills at Dolphins 1 p.m.

Bears at Vikings 1 p.m.

Jets at Patriots 1 p.m.

Redskins at Giants 1 p.m.

Cowboys at Eagles 1 p.m.

Browns at Steelers 1 p.m.

Saints at Buccaneers 1 p.m.

Jaguars at Titans 1 p.m.

Chiefs at Broncos 4:25 p.m.

Raiders at Chargers 4:25 p.m.

49ers at Rams 4:25 p.m.

Cardinals at Seahawks 4:25 p.m.

TBD 8:30 p.m.

Fox CBS Fox CBS CBS Fox CBS Fox Fox CBS Fox CBS CBS CBS Fox Fox NBC

ALL TIMES EASTERN * = Flexible Schedule Games

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4 • MSU REPORTER

THE FINAL VOYAGE

Vikings leaving Mankato after 52 seasons The move could cost the city $5 million after thriving for so many years.

GABE HEWITT Editor-In-Chief In a move that surprised little, the Minnesota Vikings announced July 18 that they would be moving their training camp from Minnesota State University, Mankato to their newly-built facility in Eagan starting in 2018.

Since training camp first came to Mankato 52 years ago, the two-week-long festivities have proven to provide a significant boost in the city’s economy and tourism.

According to Visit Mankato President Anna Thill, training camp brings in an upwards of $5 million for the city.

“It’s a very unique event for the community because of its international interest,” she said. “People have traveled from all around the world to be here. That puts a real life into the community.”

In her 10 years as president, Thill has seen fan attendance at training camp fluctuate. The peak years occurred when Dante Culpepper and Randy Moss were on the team where up to 80,000 people attended, she said. A

Photo by Hara Goo Fans have come to show their support each and every August for Vikings Training Camp. Next August will be a bit of a change around the city.

2010 study found that over 60,000 fans were attending training camp.

“Even though they’re leaving, there’s so much gratitude on behalf of the community for what the Vikings have done and the relationship that’s developed over the years,” she said.

Thill credits training camp for putting Mankato on the map. Local and national news stations providing media coverage of the city is something that MNSU Vice President of Finance and Administration said is hard to measure in terms of how training camp

impacts the university.

“It’s hard to put a monetary value on the relationship we’ve had for 52 years,” he said.

The Vikings paying MNSU to use its facilities isn’t a big moneymaker for the University, Straka said. Many of the funds go into the upkeep of the facilities the team uses like Blakeslee Field and the Julia Sears Residence Community. Any leftover funds go into the university’s general fund account. Last year, the team paid $53,000 to use MNSU’s facilities and the university used $41,000 of that

alone for facility upkeep.

“Something that puts it all into perspective is the Sesquicentennial we’re celebrating this year,” Straka said. “The Vikings have been here for a third of the life of the university. We have valued our relationship with the Vikings and wish them well as they enter a new phase of their organization.”

The Vikings’ connection to MNSU runs into its athletics.

During their time here, the Vikings have used the same fields as the Maverick football team and donated practice jerseys to the team.

“The Vikings have been a tremendous resource and asset for our professional development as coaching staff members to learn from the highest level of coaching,” Mavericks Head Coach Todd Hoffner said.

According to Hoffner, the Vikings calling Mankato their training camp home has been a selling point in recruiting high school football players.

“It’s a little bit of a setback, but there’s some decisions we don’t have a say in,” he said. “You got to roll with the punches and we’ll do everything we can to sustain a strong and powerful football program.”

The Vikings’ last day of training camp is August 8.

They will then drive down I-169 to head back to the Twin Cities for the last time.

“For as long as I can remember, August, the Minnesota Vikings and Mankato was a given,” Straka said. “It was so synonymous with the start of football season. It’s really going to be different down here.”

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 5

Bradford ready to repeat last year’s success

CHELSEA DORVAL Staff Writer

As Sam Bradford enters his second year with the Minnesota Vikings, he hopes to build off his great first season he had last year. The eight-year quarterback was acquired by Minnesota September 3 of last year, just a week before the start of the regular season, from the Philadelphia Eagles.

The University of Oklahoma-alum came in strong for the injured Teddy Bridgewater, playing 15 games and continuing to set records, both in the league and for the franchise. Bradford set an NFL record for completion percentage and a franchise-record for completions with 71.6 percent and 395, respectively, in 2016. He also became the first quarterback in the history of the NFL to throw less than five interceptions while attempting more than 550 passes.

“Last year I was just trying to figure out how to call plays when I got to Minnesota, whereas now I feel really comfortable with what we are doing. I think we are just trying to fine-tune what we already do well and trying to

find some new wrinkles that are going to help us,” Bradford said of being able to have a full offseason with the team.

The Heisman Trophy-winner will look for a more balanced offense and use solid receiving backs in Dalvin Cook and Latavius Murray to drive the ball down the field with a stronger offense. Cook and Murray will give Bradford more options for the passing game where Adrian Peterson lacked as a pass-catcher.

“Trying to find a way to make more explosive plays, trying to maybe find a way to get the ball down the field a little bit more that way we aren’t having to work so hard every drive,” said Bradford.

Tight-end Kyle Rudolph paired with wideouts Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen accounted for 75 percent of Bradford’s touchdowns, about 60 percent of his completions and about 70 percent of the quarterback’s passing yards. Those three will continue to be top targets in the 2017 season.

He has also assisted Offensive Coordinator Pat Schurmer to help develop the offensive line and look for new possibilities in devel-

oping plays that can help the team explode effectively.

“I think that is what is great about Pat is that he is not stuck in his ways. It’s not these are my plays and this is my playbook, we’re not going to add things to it. He is constantly looking to add new things, things that will make us better. So I think with that mindset you are constantly evolving,” Bradford said of Schurmer.

Despite only one connection last year for only 15 yards, Bradford believes that second-year wide receiver Laquon Treadwell has improved from his 2016 performance and is someone that can be used in some tight situations.

“He has come a long way just from what I’ve seen from when I got here last year to this point this year. He’s big, he’s physical, he’s got strong hands and he does a great job of making contested catches when he has the opportunity,” Bradford said. “It is nice to have a guy like that that you can put on the backside and know you can throw into some tight windows and know he has the ability to come down with it.”

Bradford also set rookie records in 2010 with 354 com-

Photo by Hara Goo

pletions and 590 attempts, earning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.

“I think we have a great group of guys in that offen-

WELCOME TO

sive meeting room. I think we have a lot of talent in a lot of positions,” he said of the 2017 roster.

VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP

FROM THE OFFICIAL BEER OF THE

6 • MSU REPORTER

THE FINAL VOYAGE

Defensive Line the teeth of the defense The Vikings have built a force in their front line on the defensive side.

COLTON MOLESKY Staff Writer While the defensive front has their share of studs in Anthony Barr, Eric Kendricks, Everson Griffen, Emmanuel Lamur, Danielle Hunter, and Linval Joseph, the line had trouble down the stretch of the season, finishing in the bottom half of the league while letting up 4.17 yards a carry to opposing running backs. This team has teeth in the defensive unit, but much like the offensive line, injury derailed their 2016 season.

The centralized focus needs to be on keeping play-makers healthy and

young-rotation guys to help share the load throughout the season. The Vikings showed a willingness to rotate out starters, especially in the middle of the line. This is where they need to have young guys like Jaleel Johnson and Dylan Bradley to step up.

“When Jaleel plays the blocker and doesn’t look into the backfield, he can play a lot better and use those powerful hands to get off blocks and make a play,” said head coach Mike Zimmer on the rookie out of Iowa.

On July 26, the team secured some of the future by extending Everson Griffen to

Photo by Hara Goo Veteran Brian Robison will be in his 11th season with the Vikings in 2017.

a four-year $58 million-dollar contract which would take on to the end of his remaining two-year deal. By developing talent they have in Barr, Kendricks and Hunter, they are also setting themselves up to extend their young players instead of having to find talent upfront via free agency.

“I’m excited, first and foremost I want to thank God, none of this is possible without him, my wife for always being there for me, Rob and Rick and my agent Brian Murphy at A1 for making this happen right before camp so I wouldn’t have to worry about it,” said Griffen on the contract extension.

Having a veteran on the front-seven that can not only help the young players, but produce is a huge asset for the Vikings, as he has been instrumental in the development of guys like Hunter. But at age 29, he still recorded 48 tackles and eight sacks in 2016, proving he will still be one of the more productive guys on the roster.

“I’m really excited about it… having a guy like that around to follow in his path, it’s something I’m really excited about and congrats to him; that’s something I like to see when hard work pays off,” Hunter said.

Now it is time to get the defense ready to carry the team, like they did early in the season. The added bene-

Photo by Hara Goo Danielle Hunter will be a face to watch for years to come at the defensive line position. fit of having the offense work together should put a lot less pressure on this defense to perform at a high-level week in, and week out, giving them more room for error. Even with the dip in production on their 3-8 finish, they still only gave up 19.2 points a game which ranked sixth-best in the NFL. The mentality of the line is still “high expectations”, as Griffen note headed into camp.

“We have tremendous athletes [in] Linval [Joseph], Tom Johnson, Danielle Hunter, hopefully Sharrif [Floyd] can get back. We have a great group of defensive linemen,” said Griffen. “That should get the job done at a high level.

The biggest thing for us is coming in and working on this process of coming together and grinding as a team and come together as a unit to get where we want to go, and we could be the best, but it’s up to us. Coach Patterson always says ‘it isn’t easy being great, you’ve got to go out there each and every day to be great, and that’s what we have to do.”

This group is primed for a bounce back season and now has a significant amount of depth to make the roster truly dangerous throughout the course of an entire season, and could weather any injuries headed into the end of the year.

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 7

Consistency name of game for offense Minnesota is ready for the post-Adrian Peterson offense with Bradford leading.

Photo by Hara Goo Quarterback Sam Bradford (8) will lead this Vikings offense for the second year in-a-row. The offense is expected to be more balanced between passing and running the football.

RYAN SJOBERG Staff Writer Sam Bradford brought the Minnesota Vikings consistency, accuracy and most exciting of all: the deep ball.

Teddy Bridgewater was a fine quarterback, but he could not force the ball downfield as effectively as Bradford can. With a shiny new pair of running backs and a receiving group ready to step up their production in a big way, the potential is oozing from this offense.

Adrian Peterson got cut by the Vikings due to a huge contract Peterson was under that Minnesota simply did

not want to pay with his age not getting any younger. Everyone outside of the state of Minnesota thought the rug was being pulled out from under the team when he was cut, but there was a sense in the area that this was the time to move on and by the time Peterson was cut, most fans were not surprised. To ease the pain even further, the team decided to spend its first selection in the draft this year on a running back. The Minnesota Vikings made fans happy when the team selected Dalvin Cook in the second round. Cook has the potential to one day be a threedown running back which is

so coveted in today’s NFL. Cook can catch effectively to compliment his excellent running abilities.

The difference this year however will be Sam Bradford getting a full offseason to build chemistry with his wide outs and learn the playbook inside and out so he can make proper calls on the fly out on the field. When I asked Sam what this offseason did for his chemistry with the wide outs, the former first overall pick did not hesitate to emphasize how much it has helped them as a group.

“You know it’s big. Obviously being able to work in the spring with those guys

and just talk about routes and talk about depths, you know talk about where I expect them to be and get their feedback on where they expect the ball to be and how they expect it to be thrown.

I think it is a big part of the game, being able to trust each other. I think there is a lot to be said for that wide receiver/quarterback chemistry and I think that this time of year is great to find things to get better at and work on together to build that chemistry,” Bradford said.

The difference maker in 2017 may be whomever comes out ahead on the depth chart between Michael

Floyd and last year’s firstround pick, Laquon Treadwell. Obviously, Treadwell will get the early look and advantage as Floyd is suspended the first four games for violation of the NFL’s substance abuse policy, but look for Floyd to potentially pass him on the depth chart when he is back. Floyd has impressed everyone so far in camp and even has been looking like a true number one receiver which would be huge for an offense with a couple of true two’s in Diggs and Thielen.

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8 • MSU REPORTER

THE FINAL VOYAGE

Former Maverick Thielen out to prove his worth After a career-best 2016, Adam Thielen is now a threat around the NFL.

CHELSEA DORVAL Staff Writer There is no doubt that Minnesota State University Alum Adam Thielen had an impressive third season with the Minnesota Vikings last year. Thielen led the Vikings in receiving yards with 967 and posted career-highs with 69 receptions, three 100-yard games, 967 receiving yards and five touchdowns.

“I don’t want to change a thing. I want to keep doing the things that got me here.

I want to make sure I keep getting better. Every off-season I have a goal to keep getting stronger, keep getting faster, quicker and becoming an all-around better receiver,” Thielen said when

asked about what he wants to change going into the 2017 season.

Thielen posted the best game of his career thus far against the Green Bay Packers on Christmas Eve of last season, with 12 receptions for a total of 202 yards and two touchdowns. He continues to look to build off of his noteworthy performances last year.

“I think we all have high expectations, as we did last year. I think we learned a lot from what happened last year. I think there are a lot of things that the coaching staff and we as players have tried and done to try and change that around. No one was satisfied with missing the playoffs last year,” Thielen said.

Photo by Hara Goo Danielle Hunter will be a face to watch for years to come at the defensive line position.

Photo by Hara Goo He quickly developed a solid rapport with the addition of quarterback Sam Bradford with the team-leading 967 receiving yards and three 100-yard games, tying teammate Stefon Diggs.

Diggs and Thielen will build their relationship after being able to get a full off-season together.

“Sometimes we forget we didn’t have an off-season with [Diggs] last year, just because of the way he was able to come in and perform and perform so well and make us feel so comfortable. It’s been a great off-season getting to know him personally better and obviously getting to know how he likes things done,” the Detroit Lakes-native said.

The duo of Diggs and

Thielen accounted for over 45 percent of the Vikings’ receiving yards, 40 percent of the team’s touchdowns through the air and over 36 percent of receptions. With the incoming rookies in Stacy Coley and Rodney Adams and a hopeful resurgent season for Laquon Treadwell, there will be plenty of competition for the rest of the receiving depth chart.

“There’s a lot of hungry guys on this team, guys who have been here for a long time and we want to win and we want to win now,” he said.

As a Maverick, Thielen ranked second in Minnesota State history with 198 receptions, third with 2,802 receiving yards and third with 57 punt returns. He was named 1st-Team All-Northern Sun

Conference South Division his senior year and 2ndTeam as a junior. Thielen also helped bring the Mavericks to a 13-1 record and a national semifinal appearance in his last year.

The Vikings will look to Thielen for another consistent season as well as being able to make the big contributions he made last year.

Thielen topped Diggs with 16 catches of more than 20 yards in his third season. He also ranks second amongst the franchise with most rushing yards in a game by a wide receiver in the January 3 game against the Packers with 67 yards, and third in longest Vikings fake punts in the same game with 41 yards.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 9

Depth is relevant at quarterback position With Teddy Bridgewater rehabbing, Sam Bradford will be polishing the playbook.

COLTON MOLESKY Staff Writer Two quarterbacks that have been named starters to the same team at one point enter camp with only one season on both of their contracts.

While Sam Bradford has been named the starter, both head coach Mike Zimmer and general manager Rick Spielman have said that Teddy Bridgewater has come along nicely from his knee surgery.

While everyone has been asking, from linemen, to wide receivers, to Bradford, say there is no distraction from the Bridgewater return, both quarterbacks seem to be fighting for who gets the next contract.

“There really hasn’t been anything that’s changed since we talked about it in the spring,” said Bradford on questions about a contract extension. “That’s really not my focus right now. My focus is to come in here and get better and get ready for the season and if something changes then obviously I’ll look at it but at this time, it’s really not even on my radar.”

What also does not help is that the last season Bridgewater played was eerily similar to Bradford’s 2016 season. In 2015, Bridgewater threw for 3,231 yards and 14 touchdowns against nine interceptions and five fumbles,

Photo by Hara Goo

Photo courtesy of The Associated Press It was Teddy Bridgewater’s team to lead before a frighful injuiry in practice last season derailed his playing time. Bridgewater is steadily rehabbing, hopeful of a return. with a 65 percent completion percentage. Then Bradford came in the following year in week two with no experience on the Vikings roster and threw for 3,877 yards, and had a 71 percent completion rate, against five interceptions and nine fumbles. The one leg up is that Bridgewater can make plays with his legs, rushing for 192 yards and three touchdowns.

While the future seemed doubtful for Bridgewater, he is slowly progressing and if he can return and look healthy in preseason games with men falling around his knees, there must be room to get back on the roster because of no deal made as of yet between Bradford and the Vikings. This makes for a truly winner-take-all quarterback camp battle, with Bridgewa-

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Sam Bradford was acquired in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles after the Bridgewater injury. Bradford went on to have a historical season, and now could challenge a long-term spot as quarterback for the Vikings. ter having to be perfect in his comeback and Bradford getting an actual offseason to gel with the offense.

“It’s exciting, this is the first time I’ve been on a team were we go away for training camp. Every other team we’ve done it at the facilities, so it’s a little bit different coming in here and walking into a dorm room for the

first time since college,” said Bradford of the offseason. “I think we all know that we’ve got a ton of work ahead of us.

I think we had a good spring and it’s time to build on that.

Communication is a key part of these next couple weeks,

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10 • MSU REPORTER

THE FINAL VOYAGE

QUARTERBACKS “‘The biggest thing I remember was the guys sup-

porting me as I was laying on the ground, praying for me and holding my hand, and it speaks to the character of the guys we have on this team,” said Bridgewater. “It made me a better person, it made me very appreciative of everything I have in life and very aware that you can lose something you love in the blink of an eye.’”

Continued from page 9 making sure we’re all speaking the same language and making sure we are all seeing the same things the same way and we’re all on the same page.”

The benefits of working with offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur for the entirety of a season and offseason also favors Bradford, who now will be in an offense that will become more tailored to him and his strengths. Yet every day he continues without a contract extension, the narrow hall of opportunity for Bridgewater remains open.

“It kind of goes back to what I was talking about, making sure that when Pat [Shurmur] puts things in and installs things in meetings that we are able to take it out and apply it on the field,” said Bradford. “Going through the spring, we were trying to find new things, things that we could add to our playbook, things that maybe we didn’t have last year. What we felt like we did well last year and over the next few weeks find out what we’re going to do and find our identity.”

As far as the season in

Photo by Hara Goo front of the team, the expectations that were once so high for the promising squad were not even close to being met as the team finished 8-8 after a 5-0 start. They missed the playoffs and it left the Vikings looking for answers to a lot of position group problems. This year, the quarter-

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backs were not immune to the sense of urgency to get back to the organization’s playoff ways.

“I went through this my last year at Philadelphia, and still try to approach it the same way as any other season,” said Bradford. “In this league you come in and

have to prove yourself day in and day out and prove your worth, and like I said my goal rightness is to come in each day and get better and be a good teammate and a good leader.”

Bridgewater, on the other hand, focused on continued recovery from his injury, de-

tailing it in his first talk with the media since August 28 of last year.

“The biggest thing I remember was the guys supporting me as I was laying on the ground, praying for me and holding my hand, and it speaks to the character of the guys we have on this team,” said Bridgewater. “It made me a better person, it made me very appreciative of everything I have in life and very aware that you can lose something you love in the blink of an eye.”

Bridgewater declined to talk about the quarterback situation, continually saying he was “focused on getting better and rehabbing”, while also declining any questions on the status of his knee, simply saying it was “better than before”. While the season is pivotal for the entire Vikings team as far as a bounce back year, it is even more so for the pair of quarterbacks, who are fighting for the next contract.

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12 • MSU REPORTER

THE FINAL VOYAGE

Cook, Murray pace running back group The departed Adrian Peterson has made way for new faces to take over the reins.

CHELSEA DORVAL Staff Writer For the first time in the past nine seasons, Vikings fans will no longer hear Vikings Radio celeb Paul Allen shout “AND ADRIAN PETERSON IS LOOOOOOOOSE!” The seven-time Pro Bowler will however be in US Bank Stadium on the opposing sideline with the New Orleans Saints come week one of the NFL regular season. The Vikings will be taking a different approach this year with a wide variety of backs.

“It’s going to be a good competition, it’s a good group.

Coach Schurmer has been pushing us during OTA’s to come out and define us as a running back group and push each other to be better this year,” Jerick McKinnon said.

McKinnon tallied a career-high 539 yards on 159 carries for an average of 3.4 yards-per-carry in the seven games he started. He also set career-highs in rushing attempts with 159, rushing yards with 539, 43 receptions, 255 receiving yards and 2 re-

Photo by Hara Goo Jerick McKinnon is the most experienced running back on the current roster with the Vikings.

He was drafted in the 2014 NFL Draft and should see extended playing time on special teams this year as well. The mixture of his speed and football intelligence will boast well wherever he is at. ceiving touchdowns. McKinnon sustained an undisclosed injury last Thursday at Training Camp, but it should be okay going forward.

“For me it’s year four, I still feel unproven and like I still have a lot to prove, I’m going to come out here and do my best every day. I feel like I haven’t reached where I want to be yet,” McKinnon said.

After letting Peterson and

Matt Asiata go in free agency, the Vikings added Latavius Murray from the Oakland Raiders and Dalvin Cook in the NFL Draft during the offseason to try and improve their offensive backfield. The combination of the two will be a nice mix of youth and experience.

Cook, a Florida State alumni, was picked up in the second round of the 2017

NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings after the Vikings gave their number 48 pick and a fourth-round selection to the Cincinnati Bengals for the number 41 pick. Cook is garnering a lot of attention in his first year in the NFL with the injury of Murray and McKinnon early in training camp.

“No matter if those guys [McKinnon and Murray] are out there or not, it’s a chance

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for me to get better. If I go out there I want to get better no matter what. If those guys were out there it would be the same-I just want to get better,” Cook said.

The 2016 Orange Bowl MVP is excited to play with the Vikings and was already impressed by the team’s defense less than a week into Training Camp. As a Seminole, Cook was the top running back in the country with 1,765 rushing yards, 488 receiving yards (third on the team), and 20 touchdowns in the 2016 season. He also broke the 20-year-old FSU career rushing record in the game against Syracuse with 225 yards, including a 41yard run.

“Our front is serious. We have Linval [Joseph] and we have Danielle [Hunter]. Our defense is good, period,” Cook said.

He has also impressed Offensive Coordinator Pat Schurmer during both the spring and training camp and

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 13

RUNNING BACKS “‘No matter if those guys [McKinnon and Murray] are out

there or not, it’s a chance for me to get better. If I go out there I want to get better no matter what. If those guys were out there it would be the same-I just want to get better,” Cook said.”

Continued from page 12 will be a player with the potential to help the team both in the present and in the future.

“He really has retained a great deal from the spring and I think that is the most important piece. He did a really nice job in the spring and we anticipate that he will

just continue to get better and better,” Schurmer said of Cook. “He tries to make the most of every rep he gets.

You see him do a lot of things really well, and if he does make a mistake he is able to correct it and move on, and that’s another sign of a pro.”

Murray will start the season

Photo by Hara Goo Dalvin Cook will be the favorite to see the most touches this season, especially with Latavius Murray sidelined. Cook figures to be in the Vikings plans for a long while.

on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list and has yet to practice with the Vikings as a result of the off-season ankle surgery. The spring signing totaled 12 rushing touchdowns last year, fifth in the NFL and was selected for the 2015 Pro Bowl. Previously on the Oakland Raiders, Murray became the first player in the NFL to gain at least 110 rushing yards in five or fewer carriers in the November 20 game against Kansas City.

“He’s a pro, he a veteran. He is very in tune with what we are doing mentally, he asks great questions and made some suggestions on how to teach it. So, he is right there mentally. For him, it’s just going to be a matter of getting his body back, in and around the ankle,” Schurmer said of Murray.

2015 was Murray’s best season with a career-high 266 carries for 1,066 yards and posted his first 1,000-yard season with six touchdowns.

Bishop Sankey is also a new addition to the Vikings

Photo by Hara Goo Latavius Murray will have to play some catch-up once he is fully healthy from his offseason ankle surgery. that should be watched. Sankey joined the 2016 practice squad after being released from the Kansas City Chiefs’ practice squad in November.

Sankey was drafted 54th overall in the 2014 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans from

the University of Washington. He started 12 games for a total of 199 rushes for 762 rushing yards and three touchdowns. He assisted the team with 32 receptions for 272 yards.

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14 • MSU REPORTER

THE FINAL VOYAGE

The swagger that is Stefon Diggs After a season that may have slipped in production, the No. 1 receiver is out to prove himself.

Photo courtesy of The Associated Press Stefon Diggs has blossomed into the underrated star everyone loves to root for. Wil he continue his uptick during his young NFL career?

COLTON MOLESKY Staff Writer The scrappy, smaller receiver with a constant chip on his shoulder that worked his way to the top of the roster, Stefon Diggs is the football story that everyone loves and can find relatable. Now he is primed to breakout in 2017 as the number-one pass catcher in Minnesota.

“I’m trying to have a better year than last year, to contin-

ue my growth from last year to this year, trying to stay healthy to contribute to my better year and staying with my team,” said Diggs on this season’s expectations. “Trying to make [my teammates] better full-time, rather than missing time.”

During his college days in Maryland, Diggs was the all-purpose tool, putting up monster yards in receiving (844), punt return (221), kick return (713), rushing (114) and

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even through touchdown passes, finishing with eight on the year. Over the next two years, his stats in all categories dropped off significantly, and he was unable to build on his receiving stats, posting 587 and 792 over the next two seasons with only 8 touchdowns in two seasons. While the steep dropoff could be concerning, and it was for plenty of teams in the draft, two keys to remember is he was on a poor team

and maintained a 15, 17 and 12 yards-per-reception averages. What always remained apparent, no matter what kind of season he was having, was Diggs’ competitive edge.

“We both don’t talk too much trash, but we both real competitive and hate to lose,” said Diggs on matching up against Xavier Rhodes, the Vikings’ top cornerback.

“We both have honest wins and honest loses, so it’s a fight I like to look forward to.”

While Diggs’ dip on the stat sheet was less than pleasing, his versatility always makes him a talented piece to add to the roster. After being selected in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL draft, the Maryland product sat out the first three games of the season before getting his shot against Denver because of

DIGGS Page 15

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 15

DIGGS “‘I’m trying to have a better year than last year, to continue my growth from last year to this year, trying to stay healthy to contribute to my better year and staying with my team,” said Diggs on this season’s expectations. “Trying to make [my teammates] better full-time, rather than missing time.’”

Continued from page 12

injuries to Charles Johnson and Jarius Wright. He had 87 yards and impressed against the stout Broncos secondary, which gave him a shot to continue proving himself on the field. After that, he cruised to 720 yards in 52 catches for the remainder of the season with four touchdowns, then came back as the primary threat in 2016, backing up

the rookie season with 903 yards and three touchdowns on 84 catches. The Vikings now have him slated as the number-one wide receiver on the depth chart heading into 2017, with the Minnesota team putting their young duo of Adam Thielen and Diggs as the top-two wideouts.

“To me, I’ve got a long way to go but I’ve had continued

Photo by Hara Goo

progress since my first year and I plan on making it to the next step as far as doing a little bit more,” said Diggs on if this would be a breakout year. “It just takes commitment, dedication to what you do; you’ve got to love to study people, got to love to study guys.”

His first few seasons were not without problems, as he had a fresh quarterback in Teddy Bridgewater learning how to play quarterback in the NFL. After the injury to the star out of Louisville, the wide receivers had to get on the same page, as incoming quarterback Sam Bradford made the transition from Philadelphia.

“Just time… spending more time with him and learning more about him and how he likes to approach things before we kind of just got thrown in the fire, so this year we have time to work with [each other] to make things crispy,” said Diggs on the offseason of extra time.

Stefon also mentioned the communication with his quarterback is more clear heading into 2017.

Now the bulk of the load is on the young number 14’s shoulders, as he takes on the number-one receiver role and

Photo by Hara Goo has had his quarterback for an entire offseason of work.

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16 • MSU REPORTER

THE FINAL VOYAGE

Progress needed from offensive line in 2017 After a few pick-ups in the offseason, this position should show some improvement.

RYAN SJOBERG Staff Writer There will be some new faces on the Minnesota Vikings offensive line this year.

As many as three new faces could take over starting roles after an offseason overhaul of the position group after a historically bad season in 2016. Left tackle Riley Reiff was acquired via free agency from the Lions, right tack-

le Mike Remmers agreed to terms with the Vikings after a stint with the Panthers and rookie center Pat Elflien looks to snag a starting role after being a key player along Ohio State’s line the past few seasons.

Minnesota’s offensive line group was ranked 29th out of 32 in the league last year, per Pro Football Focus. The running game held the worst average per rush for a Vikings

Photo by Hara Goo

team in decades while Sam Bradford was constantly running for his life because defenders were easily able to get to him (this makes Bradford’s career year last year even more impressive). The purple and gold made it their number one offseason priority to sure up the offensive line. They went out and were aggressive in free agency signing both Reiff and Remmers to big time contracts.

Riley Reiff and Mike Remmers are upgrades from what the Vikings had last year. But are they huge upgrades like their contracts suggest they are? Riley Reiff is a former first-round draft pick that has shown promise in his career but has also struggled, forcing Detroit to move him to right tackle. The Lions ultimately declined the fifth-year team option on Reiff and let him walk in free agency for a whopping $58 million dollars over five years. Mike Remmers is another question mark. Remmers served as the right tackle for the Carolina Panthers over the past three years. He was a starter the last two and played average football. Remmers managed to receive an offer from Minnesota that was worth $30 million over five years.

Bottom line: Minnesota upgraded their offensive line.

But some of these contracts may prove difficult for the team to sign their own guys

Photo by Hara Goo

to extensions in their future.

Head Coach Mike Zimmer seems to like what he has seen so far in camp.

“I think these guys are pretty tough guys and I think these guys are smart guys so I believe they will come around, sooner than later.”

Zimmer was then asked specifically about Reiff and raved about his new left tackle.

“He is a smart veteran player that has a lot of physicality. I really like his demean-

or. He is going to try to hurt you if he can hurt you and I think that is going to bode well for us moving forward,” Zimmer said.

The jury is still out on if the Vikings will get the bang for their buck along the offensive line. If this unit can be as good as the price tags say they should be, Minnesota should be on their way to a playoff berth in 2017.

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 17

Wide receivers, tight ends 2017 preview A lot of young, raw talent lives at these positions, so the battles are aplenty in camp.

Photo by Hara Goo Teammates Stefon Diggs and Kyle Rudolph (left) surround receiver Jarius Wright (right) after he caught a pass for a touchdown earlier in Training Camp.

RYAN SJOBERG Staff Writer With the starting spots secure at both the receiving and tight end positions, young players are attempting to elevate their play enough to secure a roster spot. The Vikings’ roster includes proven starters such as third-year pro Stefon Diggs, Minneso-

ta State’s own Adam Thielen and red zone-threat Kyle Rudolph. However, it is slim pickings after those key players as depth appears to be the issue and development of younger players will be key to how the passing attack takes shape in the 2017 season.

The tight end group features one of the biggest pass

catchers in the NFC. Kyle Rudolph is a threat to score every time Minnesota is in their opponent’s territory.

Rudolph is now the ‘older’ guy in the room at age 27, and had this to say about the young core of tight ends.

“It’s exciting. We have a lot of talent in that room. I think those guys all bring stuff

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to the table that can help us win football games,” Rudolph said. “I’ve come to terms with being the older guy in the room and being the leader, so I look forward to going out there and working with those guys.”

Many sources predict three tight ends to make the roster. Rudolph is obviously

one of them, but after that it is a toss-up. Rookie Bucky Hodges will also more than likely make the roster, considering the team spent a fourthround pick on him. The Virginia Tech alum stands at 6’6”

WR/TE Page 18

18 • MSU REPORTER

THE FINAL VOYAGE

WR/TE

“‘It’s exciting. We have a lot of talent in that room. I think those guys all bring stuff to the table that can help us win football games,” Rudolph said. “I’ve come to terms with being the older guy in the room and being the leader, so I look forward to going out there and working with those guys.’”

Continued from page 17 and 257 pounds, and could develop into a great player at the tight end position. My dark horse pick to snag a roster spot will be arena league phenom and athletic freak Nick Truesdell.

Truesdell killed the competition in the IFL and is intriguing simply because of his raw skills. At 6’5” and 255 pounds, Truesdell ran a sub 4.5 40-meter dash. It is possible Minnesota takes a fly card on the lowrisk, high-reward pass catching threat.

The wide receiver group is one that can be discussed about for hours when pondering their potential. The starters are etched in stone for the most part, as Adam Thielen will man the outside while Stefon Diggs will run the slot. After that, there are question marks all over the board.

Second-year player Laquon Treadwell is looking to make big things happen after a disappointing year one.

The 2016 rookie managed to catch just one ball last season for the Vikings after big things were expected from him, as he was the 16th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. However Treadwell develops will affect both his own playing time

Photo by Hara Goo Tight end Kyle Rudolph practices a drill during training camp. Rudolph will be leaned on heavily at the position, as there are many young players for him to help learn the NFL. and the Minnesota-native Michael Floyd’s playing time.

If Treadwell shows promise and has a solid first couple of games, the team will probably want to keep him on the

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field. If he plays like he did last year, look for Floyd to find the field early and often starting in week five after serving his four-game suspension to begin the season.

Adam Thielen is excited for the upcoming season and expects big things from the purple and gold in 2017.

“I think there is a lot of hungry players on this team,

a lot of players who have been here for a long time.

We want to win and we want to win now,” Thielen said.

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 19

Feature Photo: Getting Loose

Photo by Hara Goo, MSU Reporter

Minnesota Vikings players get loose before one of the first practices in Mankato. 2017 will be the final season the Vikings will have Mankato for Training Camp. They spent 52 seasons here, and will be moving to their new facility in Eagan, Minnesota.

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THE FINAL VOYAGE

Special teams loses some, gains others The loss of one of the top returners in the league might not be as painful as intially thought.

COLTON MOLESKY Staff Writer

Photo by Hara Goo Marshall Koehn could be the long-term solution at kicker if Kai Forbath begins to show age or inconsistency. The Iowa alum had a brief stint with the Miami Dolphins but could hopefully see his chance in purple. shall Koehn has the leg for the team and now needs to gain the experience of pressure kicks during preseason play. What the Vikings

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The position typically overlooked by fans on a football team are the special teams unit, with their ability to sway games by making a crucial error, or forcing one. Over the course of a season, the special teams for the Minnesota Vikings has received a partial overhaul after the Blair Walsh debacle last season, along with changes on the line and the loss of Cordarrelle Patterson. New faces are on the training camp horizon for this group.

Last season, Minnesota went 27 of 31 on field goals and 26 for 33 on extra points, putting them around the middle of the road when ranked up against the rest of the NFL. On punts, Minnesota ranked 20th last season, with a 42-yard average and 39-average net.

On the return, Minnesota is regularly a tight unit that averaged 27 yards a game on kickoff and punt return, and only gave up 25 yards on opposing kick returns. But on punt coverage, they let up 27

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 21

“‘Everything is going fast right now, there’s no time to waste right now,” said Coley of getting season-ready. “Wherever they put me at, I’m going to do what they ask of me and I’m going to help the team.’”

Continued from page 20 during camp and into the preseason.

Punt return specialist Marcus Sherels should continue to handle most of the punt-returning tasks, but rookies Rodney Adams and Stacy Coley have both done a fair share of returning early in camp. While Coley is the more naturally smooth return man, his commitment to football has been a question since the draft and Adams has established himself as the better receiver.

“I feel good right now, going through the motions,” said Coley, who has looked good at the return man spot. “I feel like we just go out there and make plays, everyone competing for a job, just out here competing, and the best man win. I played [returner] in college so I’m going to play it.”

If Adams can become

Photo by Hara Goo Rookie wide receiver out of the University of Miami Rodney Adams could be a candidate for kick return. The rookie has experience from doing the same job in college. more polished on both fonts and be the dual-threat guy the Vikings would like to see, he will secure a roster spot. In the kick return game, Adams

also can make an impact with his burst and has more time return on a kick, which offers a lower learning curve.

“My relentlessness to not

be tackled and I just don’t blink in the face of a corner or linebacker,” said Adams on what skill set is specific to him. “[return drills] have been

really good, expect for the wind making it a little tough, but I’m just out here to compete and what the coaches want me to do at whatever position I’ll go out and do it.”

As far as the punters, the Vikings bringing in Texas Tech rookie Taylor Symmank has given the Vikings a different option outside of the veteran Ryan Quigley. Both will be up for the spot, especially after some solid days from Symmank, despite the wind conditions.

“Everything is going fast right now, there’s no time to waste right now,” said Coley of getting season-ready.

“Wherever they put me at, I’m going to do what they ask of me and I’m going to help the team.”

That seems to be the motto of this young unit mixed with some seasoned veterans.

22 • MSU REPORTER

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NFC North preview: Packers still team to beat Staff writer Ryan Sjoberg gives his thoughts on what the division should look like in 2017.

RYAN SJOBERG Staff Writer The NFC North is a division generally known for its intense rivalries and hard-hitting games; this year should be no different. In fact, the hype surrounding this year’s games has been heightened as there has been several free agents from NFC North squads signing with other NFC North teams. The Minnesota Vikings alone signed left-tackle Riley Reiff from the Lions, defensive-tackle Will Sutton formerly with the Bears and defensive-end Datone Jones, who is an ex-Packer. Let’s preview a division that will be one to keep an eye on in 2017.

Chicago Bears

Prediction: 4-12

The Bears have made it clear to the nation that this year will be one for rebuilding. Chicago is going to have to count on first-year starting quarterback Mike Glennon, whom the team signed in free agency for three years and $45 million during the spring.

This year is also a big year for younger guys proving they are worthy of an extension such as Kyle Fuller and Kevin White.

Detroit Lions

Prediction: 8-8

Detroit has improved over the offseason by signing former Green Bay guard T.J Lang to a three-year, $28.5 million deal during free agency. The Lions went 10-6 last season and made the playoffs, so it is normal to ask how a team that has improved will decline in wins the following season. I have three reasons behind my answer. First, the schedule is daunting. Detroit has the possibility of starting 0-4 as they play the Cardinals, Giants, Falcons and Vikings. Second, the Lions won so many close games last year that this year they might lose some of those closer games. Three, rising star left tackle Taylor Decker is out for an extended period of time.

Minnesota Vikings

Prediction: 9-7

I believe Minnesota is on the fringe of being a playoff team again. The defense will once again be a top-ten defense and many expect the offense to take their play to the next level with quarterback Sam Bradford entering year two for the Vikings and with the addition of running back Dalvin Cook via the NFL Draft. The Vikings are confident second-year receiver Laquon Treadwell can perform better than his rookie season after catching one ball for 15 yards. Minnesota’s schedule down the stretch is brutal but if they can navigate through that, this team could be playoff-bound yet again.

Green Bay Packers

Prediction: 12-4

Green Bay is the NFC North’s team to beat for the 2017 season. As it has been said year-after-year, the answer is within one man on the roster: Aaron Rodgers.

If you put Rodgers on any team, they are automatically a playoff contender. Green Bay also put towards an effort in free agency, signing tight end Martellus Bennett to a three-year, $21 million deal. The obvious problem is the defense. If their defense can be average or slightly above, this team will be a Super Bowl-contender come playoff time.

Photo courtesy of The Associated Press Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has had the NFC North at his fingertips for the most part during his career. Even with lethargic defenses, Rodgers has still been able to dominate.

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MSU REPORTER • 23

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24 • MSU REPORTER

THE FINAL VOYAGE

Sorry opposing offenses: Rhodes Closed The Vikings cornerback was handsomely rewarded with an extension in Training Camp.

COLTON MOLESKY Staff Writer The top Vikings cornerback on the roster is headed into his fifth year in the league, and his career has taken much of the same arc as his college career.

“It’s amazing and a shock at the same time,” said Xavier Rhodes on where he is as far as leadership on the Minnesota defense. “It seems like it was just a blink of the eye, one moment it feels like I was just getting here, the next I’m five years in and I’ve been having good seasons. Had a great season last year and a lot of young fellas want to be like me and have that kind of season [like last year], so I try and help them out and share my knowledge.”

At Florida State, the Seminoles’ product finished his career with his best year of the three, racking up 39 tackles and three interceptions, along with 12 passes defended and a forced fumble. He finished his collegiate career with 136 tackles, two sacks, a forced fumble, 28 passes defended and 8 interceptions.

Rhodes was trained in a system that pumps the NFL with great defensive back talent, but the knock on him

Photo by Hara Goo Marshall Koehn could be the long-term solution at kicker if Kai Forbath begins to show age or inconsistency. The Iowa alum had a brief stint with the Miami Dolphins but could hopefully see his chance in purple. was always his penalty count because of pass interference.

His opening seasons in the league, he continued to suffer from the pass interference draw. The heavy problem was his bit on the double move fade, but plenty of

Photo by Hara Goo

deep routes continued to get the handsy corner in trouble.

“Just the knowledge of the game, learning more about the game, learning about the down and distance and the splits we see depending on which hash the ball is on, I could go into detail about what to learn about but just building knowledge,” said Rhodes.

Rhodes also believes he has come a long way not only as a player, but a leader as well.

“I believe I have taken more of a leadership role on the team and have a more vocal place on the defense [now].”

However, Minnesota continued to trust in the development of his raw talent and kept veterans around him, like Antoine Winfield, Captain Munnerlyn and Terence Newman to help his development and growth. After four seasons and now in a system with a defensive-minded head coach in Mike Zimmer, he was in a spot to take the next step, which he did in 2016, by posting monster numbers and going to his first Pro-Bowl.

“They’re doing awesome, they’ve got a great grasp of the game right now and a great grasp of the defense,” said the veteran Terrance Newman of the young player’s development. “Their knowledge of the game is improving, which is important as well because with film study and knowing where your supposed to be and where other

guys are supposed to be is important and they’re getting that very well.”

Now, Rhodes is fresh off of his Pro-Bowl season that saw him tally 52 tackles, 11 passes defended, five interceptions, a touchdown and a forced fumble. Yet again, improving on past bodies of work.

He was rewarded this offseason when the Vikings made

him one of the highest-paid corners in the league on a 5-year extension worth $70 million, with $41 million of that guaranteed to the young defensive back. He is in a position to be what the corners like Winfield were to him, and help this team’s young cornerback talent develop, along with being a great corner himself.

“Those guys are going to be good. They’re going to be great, they just need to continue to work on their techniques and their knowledge of the game,” said Rhodes of the young corners. “Once you have both, the sky is the limit.”

It is his year to go out and prove why he was paid so handsomely, along with backing up his Pro-Bowl level season and lead the defense filled with young talent. While there is a lot riding on him and a lot of lofty expectations to fill, the corner remains his usual game-time calm.

“I’m still just trying to go out there and play football, play my game.”

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 25

The instinctive player: Eric Kendricks The UCLA middle linebacker has quietly become one of the better players on defense.

Photo by Hara Goo Eric Kendricks will be entering his third season in the league and as a Viking, and the 24-year old has come a long way already since he played his first game.

In two seasons, Kendricks has compiled 166 solo tackles, 6.5 sacks, 1 interception and 21 tackles for loss.

CHELSEA DORVAL Staff Writer Former UCLA standout Eric Kendricks will look to build off an already impressive start with the Minnesota Vikings going into the 2017 campaign.

The 6’, 232-pound linebacker lead the team in tackles in both 2015 with 105 and 2016 with 126 to start his professional career, being only the second rookie in franchise history to do so. He also had a career-high nine passes deflected and improved his career sacks to 6.5. Kendricks is also the Bruins all-time leading tackler with 481 and led the nation in 2014 with 101 solo tackles.

“Communication. It always starts with communication.

Now that we are more familiar with the defense, we can play with it. If everyone is on the same page, we are communicating well, we’re flying to the ball, good things happen,” Kendricks said about how to improve the defense.

Alongside fellow UCLA alum and former college roommate, Anthony Barr, the duo is regarded as one of the best sets of linebackers in the league. The pair totaled 141 solo tackles and 4.5 sacks.

“Eric has probably had one of the best years as a mike linebacker, he should have gone to the Pro Bowl last year. So, I am really hopeful

for those guys [Kendricks and Barr] that they keep getting better and the sky is the limit,” Linebacker coach Adam Zimmer said before Training Camp.

Kendricks was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week for the September 11 game against Tennessee, as well as the NFC Defensive Rookie of the Month in October 2015.

“He makes plays all over the field, he is so instinctive, sometimes we have to reign that instinctiveness in so he does it in the scheme of the defense, but he is a really an instinctive football player that makes plays that you just ‘wow’ at sometimes,” Zimmer said.

The 25-year-old became the second player in franchise history and first linebacker to record at least 10 tackles for loss and 10 pass deflections in the same season. He is also tied for the second most sacks against the Packers for a linebacker with 2.5 in his career.

While at college, he became the first Bruin to win the Butkus Award in 2014, which is awarded to the top collegiate, high school or professional linebacker.

“We have to step up and we have to be leaders. Obviously we cannot replace someone like Chad Greenway but we can try and be the best version of ourselves,”

Kendricks said.

He took over the starting role at middle linebacker in 2015 and wasted no time getting to work. In is first season with Minnesota, he contributed 72 solo tackles and four sacks in the 14 games he

played in.

“These are guys [Kendricks and Barr] that have been doing this for two, three years now. They are really comfortable in the defense. They come out here strong and perform everyday and per-

form in big games. So just to be next to those guys, gain some knowledge from them and continue to go everyday is a great thing for me,” fellow linebacker Edmond Robinson said of Kendricks’ leadership.

26 • MSU REPORTER

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 27

Plenty of rookie talent heading into 2017 season The Vikings drafted many different position players to fill specific needs.

COLTON MOLESKY Staff Writer The 2017 draft class for the Minnesota Vikings addressed most of their problems and thin positions. Both the defensive and offensive lines were addressed, along with bringing in talent at tight end and running back. While the rookie class features almost every position, these are the groups most heavily impacted by the fresh crop of talent.

Offensive Line The Vikings dealt with a fair share of injuries last year on the offensive line and saw Jake Long retire while letting Brandon Fusco and Mike Harris walk. Minnesota turned around and bolstered the line in the draft by grabbing Pat Elflein at center in the third round, and a guard from Miami named Danny Isidora, in the fifth. They also snagged rookie guard Freddie Tagaloa in free agency.

The much-needed depth at guard, plus a center in Elflein who is expected to win the starting job, could be just what this offensive front needed to reboot.

Photo by Hara Goo Front Seven The Viking defensive interior played on heavy rotation last year and injuries to Tom Johnson and Sharrif Floyd makes for a great opportunity for Jaleel Johnson to get onto the field early in the sea-

son because of Floyd’s and Johnson’s rehabs. Behind the line, the starting three of Anthony Barr, Eric Kendricks and Emmanuel Lamur at linebacker is a solid trio. With Chad Greenway retiring, that leaves Edmond Robinson

and Kentrell Brothers as the backups. They drafted Elijah Lee out of Kansas State, Ben Gedeon from Michigan and Shaan Washington from Texas A&M to bring depth behind the established starters.

With the aggressive fronts

that Minnesota plays with, these young linebackers also are poised to make a difference early on if they prove

ROOKIES Page 28

28 • MSU REPORTER

THE FINAL VOYAGE

ROOKIES “Minnesota turned around and bolstered the line in the draft

by grabbing Pat Elflein at center in the third round, and a guard from Miami named Danny Isidora, in the fifth.”

Continued from page 27 themselves in training camp.

“It’s nice to get back, get working with your team. We started to build a bond together once we got here and it’s just nice to have more opportunities and more reps,” said rookie linebacker Lee. “I just help them bring speed to the defense, and that’s something I’m big on and something we talk about every day in our meeting room; everybody getting to the ball, a running back might break a tackle so make sure to be there to the ball whether you’re the first one or the last one.”

Running Backs With the 41st pick in the draft, the Vikings took Dalvin Cook, the Florida State back who rushed for 4,464 yards in his colligate career and is one of the many backs brought in to fill the void left by Adrian Peterson. Latavius Murray and Bishop Sankey were acquired in free agency to join Jerick McKinnon, the lone

Photo by Hara Goo half-back on the roster. Terrell Newby joined the Vikings as a free agent. With so many backs that can catch the ball

out of the back field and run up the middle as the every down back, there are plenty of carriers in the Minnesota

backfield.

Wide Receivers This may be the thinnest position the Vikings have,

even after the draft and free agency. The team has two established players in Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen, however, this team desperately needs either Rodney Adams out of South Florida or Stacey Coley of Miami to step up to give the roster some depth and diversity.

“Just trying to make plays, I feel good right now so just going through the motions of running routes and everything,” said the Miami product on his job during training camp. “I feel like me just being explosive, the run after the catch and my speed, and dialing into my playbook and learning my role, it’s all just exciting.”

Laquon Treadwell has yet to become a contributor and Jarius Wright has never played to the level of even the fourth best receiver. The

ROOKIES Page 29

MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 29

ROOKIES ““I see myself as a playmaker. I’m a good teammate and put

everything on the line, whether it’s blocking or a pass play I put everything on the line,” said Hodges on what he brings to the roster.”

Continued from page 28

new crop of receivers needs to have some second and third string players to offer something up to the depth chart.

Tight Ends MyCole Pruitt and Rhett Ellison have left the team that had a deep tight end squad behind Kyle Rudolph, which is supposed to be bolstered

by Bucky Hodges and Josiah Price joining the roster. Price is the better blocker of the pair, but Hodges does not give much of a fight in that category. Hodges is more the pass-catching tight end, and while he is athletic, the toss-up, 50/50 catch in the red zone is where he fell inconsistent.

“I see myself as a playmaker. I’m a good teammate and put everything on the line, whether it’s blocking or a pass play I put everything on the line,” said Hodges on what he brings to the roster.

“I use [my late draft pick] as motivation every day I come

out here, but I just have a lot to prove and I don’t want to do too much talking about it because I know how hungry I am, but I’m just looking forward to this training camp and regular season.”

They need another stud like Rudolph, but if they cannot have that they need at least a tight end that is good at one thing or another.

Overall Class There are so many players that need to succeed from this rookie class that the Vikings need if they are to fill holes in this roster, most importantly at the offensive line and tight end positions. With Sam Bradford in the pocket, they need to have a really solid offensive line. The tight end spot is also crucial to this team because they are thin at wide receiver and in this offense the tight end can have a big role as the Swiss army knife that glues the offense.

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THE FINAL VOYAGE

Terence Newman the positive energy a defense needs The 15-year veteran is likely heading into his final season in the NFL.

play all over and he is just a wealth of knowledge so everyone on the team is very lucky to have him,” Smith said.

Terence Newman graded out as the ninth best cornerback in the league according to Pro Football Focus, despite being 38 years old. Newman has proven that father time has not caught up to him yet, but has acknowledged a few times throughout the offseason that this will be his final go around in the NFL. If he has a season like he did last year, can he really walk away?

I guess we’ll have to see a year from now when camp opens up outside of Mankato for the first time in Vikings history.

RYAN SJOBERG Staff Writer Terence Newman is already entering his third, and what might very be his last year with the Minnesota Vikings. After spending nine seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, three with the Cincinnati Bengals and now what will be three with the Vikings, Newman is likely to hang it up and call it a career after his 15th season.

Newman was the Cowboys’ fifth overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft. He was a good corner who would often draw tough coverage calls against guys like Randy Moss, Marvin Harrison and Terrell Owens (when he wasn’t a Cowboy). Newman has a knack for clutch interceptions and has had three or more interceptions in nine of his fourteen seasons.

The seasoned vet is taking on a slightly different role as he is now in the back end of his career. Terence Newman is used to playing every down and contributing every play, but with the Vikings hopeful Trae Waynes and Mackensie Alexander elevate their level of play this year, Newman will be looking at a role where he contributes on special packages on defense. He also understands his other role, perhaps his most important role, and that is the leadership he provides to this secondary.

Photo courtesy of The Associated Press Part of the reason for Xavier Rhodes (29) fast development and success is due to Terence Newman’s (23) teachings of the game. Both have shared kind words about one another.

“You think about Terence he has played every position in the secondary for us.

I mean he has played safety, he has played corner and he has even played nickel. I mean his versatility for us in that group is definitely a plus.

He is an unselfish guy, a true professional. Whatever you ask him to do, he’s going to go out there and do whatever you ask him to do,” defensive

coordinator George Edwards responded when asked about what Newman brings to his defense.

Harrison Smith was also quick to offer up how Terence was a leader to the younger secondary guys.

“You know it’s not always what you do on a play but its habits, it’s how he takes care of himself off the field, things he does in the offseason and

“‘It’s how he takes care of himself off the field, things he does in the offseason and how to watch film the right way,’ Rhodes said about Newman.” how to watch film the right way. He does have experience everywhere and can

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 31

Barr, Kendricks highlight linebacking core for Vikings Outside of the UCLA duo, the Vikings will explore other options for depth

Photo by Hara Goo After practice early last week, linebackers Anthony Barr (left) and Eric Kendricks answered questions for media members. The two have already made their prescence known around the NFL, and still have so many years left in them.

CHELSEA DORVAL Staff Writer Despite having solid performers in linebackers Eric Kendricks and Anthony Barr, the Minnesota Vikings added Darnell Sankey on Saturday from the Denver Broncos and picked up Elijah Lee in the 7th round of the 2017 NFL Draft.

“They have done a nice job of starting to become leaders of the defense. They are doing a great job of communicating and getting guys lined up. They both had really good seasons for us in the past and they are only going to get better. I think the sky is the limit on how good both of them can be,” Linebackers Coach Adam Zimmer said before Training Camp.

The UCLA Bruins teammates have proven to be one of the best pairs of linebackers in the league already.

“Playing with a guy like Anthony, he comes into every season with a goal in mind and he tries to achieve it and he doesn’t let anyone stop him. Compete with everybody, compete with each other and compete with himself and play well,” Kendricks said of fellow starter Barr.

Barr totaled 61 solo tackles, two sacks and five passes defended in his second year as a Viking. The second-highest linebacker drafted by the franchise was selected for the 2015 and 2016 Pro Bowl. He believes that the team has big potential to be a solid de-

fense in the 2017 NFL season.

“Critical situations, third down, spread zone, two minute situations, all areas to improve on. So, I think if we can improve in those areas, we will improve as a unit,” Barr said about how to improve the group for the upcoming season.

Not only does he have big plans on how to improve the already third-ranked NFL defense, he has worked in the offseason on self-improvements.

“I got a long ways to go.

Starts with my effort, and I’ll continue picking that up, that was a big emphasis for me this offseason and I feel good right now,” Barr said.

With the newest addition in Sankey, the team hopes to see more consistency from both the veterans and the new additions. Sankey spent time with practice squads for Oakland and Kansas City after beginning his career in Denver.

“I think the biggest thing is just consistency. The thing we are preaching with everyone right now is high energy, high effort to the football, consistency in the play, and be the impact player that you are,” Defensive Coordinator George Edwards said when asked what he wants to see out of Barr and the rest of the linebackers.

Some of that consistency will have to come from Missouri native Elijah Lee. Drafted in the second round out

of Kansas State, Lee earned First Team All-Big 12 honors in 2016 as well as Second Team All-Big 12 in the same year.

“Elijah Lee showed up as a really good athlete, he can run, he can get to the perimeter fast. He is still swimming a little bit mentally but, the

more and more he gets it and the more reps he gets he’s going to do really well,” Zimmer said before camp.

Another name to watch will be Ben Gedeon. Picked up in the fourth round by the Vikings from the University of Michigan, Gedeon will add depth to the squad but will

focus heavily on his special teams performance.

“Ben Gedeon is just a pure football player. He’s tough, he’s really smart, he picks things up quickly, very instinctive and can read plays fast,” Zimmer said.

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The future is bright with Dalvin Cook Cook could be the feature back early on if all goes according to plan.

Photo courtesy of The Associated Press CHELSEA DORVAL Staff Writer Dalvin Cook left Florida State as the most accomplished runner in school history. This is no small achievement, as the Seminoles are one of the blue bloods of college football. During the 2017 NFL season, the rookie back is hoping his college production and style of play translates to the NFL. A projected first-round pick by most NFL analysts around the league, Cook slid to the middle of the second round on draft weekend.

This ended up being a blessing for both Minnesota and the do-it-all running back as Minnesota did not own a first-round pick and ended up with a player who very well could have gone in the first round and Cook will get the opportunity to see the field early and often.

With the signing of Latavius Murray in the offseason, most expected him to get the bulk of the carries early to kind of ease Dalvin Cook into NFL play. That plan is now on the backburner for now, as Murray is on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list with an injury allowing Cook to get comfortable with the offense. Many analysts are now picking the Florida State product as their Offensive

Rookie of the Year.

Cook has big shoes to fill and does not shy away from questions asked about his predecessor Adrian Peterson. Peterson’s career with the Vikings is worthy of the Hall of Fame one day, but Cook is determined to make a name for himself and does not want to compare himself to Adrian.

“Adrian was obviously one of the best to ever play the game, I don’t want to compare myself to him or be compared to him. I actually grew up watching him. I just want to be Dalvin,” Cook said.

When receiving questions about the team, Cook is well aware of how dominant the defense is that he is playing against every day in practice.

He even went into detail on how that can make everybody on the offensive side of the ball better.

“Our front is serious. We got Linval [Joseph], we got Danielle [Hunter], our linebackers.

Our defense is good, period. I didn’t know they were this good until I got out there. You know, you can barely get the snap off with Linval and you got Everson [Griffen] coming off the edge with Barr; all those guys man. It is just fun watching those guys and it is fun to compete against those guys because once Sundays come

and once the game comes, it makes it easier,” Cook said.

A lot of pressure will be put on the 21-year-old to perform this season and a lot of weight is on his shoulders for

this offense to be successful.

If Dalvin Cook stays healthy and plays like many know he can play, the Vikings should enjoy a successful season that leads them to the play-

offs. If he does not perform up to par, this Viking offense could struggle.

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 33

Defense remains biggest strength Head Coach Mike Zimmer has built himself a powerhouse on this side of the ball.

RYAN SJOBERG Staff Writer The Minnesota Vikings defense should once again be amongst the league’s elites this upcoming season. The team features a nice blend of young stars and established veterans, forming a squad that is as stingy as they come in today’s NFL. With a stacked defensive line, impressive young linebackers and a secondary that features big names at both the corner and safety positions, this defense has the potential to be tops in the league in many statistical categories. Although he may not make the biggest impact during the final year of his NFL career, 15-year veteran cornerback Terrance Newman has been cited multiple times by players and coaches for his leadership abilities.

“You know, it’s not always what to do on a play but its habits. It’s how he takes care

when asked if he was compared to the likes of a utility infielder in baseball because of his versatility.

“You think about how Terrance has played so many different positions for us in the secondary. He’s played safety, he’s played nickel and he’s played corner,” Edwards said. “I mean his versatility for us in that group is definitely a plus and he is an unselfish guy; he’s a true professional and whatever you ask him to do he’s going to prepare like a pro and execute whatever you ask him to do.”

The defensive line is the biggest one of the bigger strengths for the team is likely to be one of the most feared position groups in the game this year. It features run-stopping defensive tackle Linval Joseph, defensive end Everson Griffen and emerging star Danielle Hunter, who could end up leading the NFC North in sacks this year.

Griffen was recently signed

Photo by Hara Goo Saftety Harrison Smith has been one of the quiet guys on defense, but overall some say he is the best in the league at his position.

of himself off the field, things he does in the offseason and how to watch film the right way. He can play all over and everyone on the team is very lucky to have him,” Pro-Bowl safety Harrison Smith said of Newman.

Defensive coordinator George Edwards also was not shy about praising Newman

to a contract extension at the start of Training Camp worth $58 million over four years, with $34 million guaranteed.

The extension makes Griffen the sixth-highest paid defensive player in the NFL. The potential is oozing from Hunter and defensive coordinator George Edwards cannot wait to use some of that untapped potential this

Photo by Hara Goo Linebacker Anthony Barr is just one piece to the grand scheme of Mike Zimmer’s defense. season.

“We want Danielle to continue to grow and continue to keep increasing his knowledge of the game. We want him to go out every day and be consistent and play hard.

So far, he has done that and we will look at him to keep progressing as the year goes on,” Edwards said.

The 22-year old compiled 12.5 sacks last season in 14 games, while also recovering a fumble for a touchdown against the Tennessee Titans.

What keeps this defense apart from others in the league is they have a true shutdown corner along with an enforcer in the secondary.

Cornerback Xavier Rhodes shadows every team’s best receiver and generally shuts them down more effectively than others do throughout the season. Rhodes was also signed to a massive extension that will keep him a Viking through the end of the 2022 season, for five years and $70 million, with $41 million guaranteed. Minnesota has the ability to play man coverage with athletes all over the field, allowing more freedom to blitz and be more aggressive schematically in the front eight. Safety Harrison Smith patrols the middle as well as anyone in the league. Minnesota paid him well for his services with a lucrative extension last summer, making him the highest-paid safety in the league.

The purple and gold are in position to be a top defense in 2017. That part of the team should not be worried about heading into the season.

“‘You know, it’s not always what to do on a play but its habits. It’s how he takes care of himself off the field, things he does in the offseason and how to watch film the right way. He can play all over and everyone on the team is very lucky to have him,” Pro-Bowl safety Harrison Smith said of Newman.”

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MINNESOTA VIKINGS TRAINING CAMP ISSUE | 2017

MSU REPORTER • 35

For 52 years, the greater Mankato area and Minnesota State University, Mankato have had the pleasure of hosting the Minnesota Vikings during their summer training camp.

The impact left on the city and campus community is far-reaching, and we will miss having them in our midst for those few weeks every summer.

Those of us here at the MSU Reporter, would also like to thank the Minnesota Vikings, from ownership, coaches and players, down to every last person associated with the team.

The experience that you allowed our editors, sports writers, and photographers to gain while covering training camp over the years, has been invaluable.

For a journalism student to be able to get real-world experience, on a professional level, is extremely impactful, and for that, we can never express enough gratitude.

We wish you all the best. Horns Up.

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