EAGAN, Minn. — While it’s typical to downplay any single throw in training camp, one particular pass stood out.
On Saturday, during a team drill, quarterback J.J. McCarthy executed a fake handoff and delivered a precise pass along the right sideline, landing perfectly where only receiver Jalen Nailor could grasp it.
The moment didn’t trigger much fanfare; while there was some cheering, it paled in comparison to the reaction when McCarthy launched a deep pass. No viral moment emerged, and finding a video of the throw is challenging. Yet this play symbolizes a significant development for the Minnesota Vikings.
But what made this throw so crucial? Coach Kevin O’Connell provided insight.
“That’s the main distinction between college and the NFL,” O’Connell explained. “We focus on how to manipulate defenders and throw in behind them, as opposed to the college game, where throwing to wide-open targets is more prevalent due to wider hashes.”
McCarthy’s arm strength has long been acknowledged. His former college teammate, Jack Tuttle, believes McCarthy throws with exceptional spin and velocity. However, in the NFL, throwing mechanics matter even more.
In previous practices, O’Connell urged McCarthy to add loft to his throws and to feel each release. Aside from the Nailor completion, McCarthy also displayed skill by placing the ball accurately over defenders for tight end T.J. Hockenson on two occasions on Saturday.
Thanks to defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ strategies, McCarthy is frequently required to utilize angled throws. Defenders often drop back, forcing McCarthy to adapt his approach.
Beyond that weekend training, it’s premature to conduct an in-depth evaluation before Monday, when players don pads and the pressure mounts. Nevertheless, McCarthy is showing promising signs early. The Vikings are executing huddles efficiently, and McCarthy is demonstrating adeptness with cadences to draw fouls, earning praise from quarterbacks coach Josh McCown.
1. The Defense Shows Proficiency
How does the Vikings defense communicate before the snap? O’Connell shared a glimpse of their conversation on Saturday.
“They’re discussing formations and positioning,” O’Connell reported. “I wondered if anyone was just going to play football, as they were filled with strategic talk.”
Safety Josh Metellus amusingly noted that the defense is evolving to a master’s level, indicating complex new coverages and play strategies ahead. During the first three days, the defenders appeared organized, showcasing adaptability, even from newcomers.
2. Backup QB Situation Uncertain
Sam Howell has mostly handled backup QB duties, providing O’Connell and the Vikings a chance to evaluate him under pressure against the first-string defense.
Evaluating Howell’s performance suggests he’s been slow to react. Without film analysis, it’s tough to gauge whether this is a timing issue or a response to defensive adjustments. However, it’s clear he hasn’t consistently delivered swiftly.
3. Cornerback Depth Observation
The Vikings have hinted at their cornerback strategy for months. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and others expressed confidence in Isaiah Rodgers and Jeff Okudah filling significant roles, and they have indeed paired well with Byron Murphy Jr. in practice.
4. Keep an Eye on Undrafted Receivers
While standout receivers like Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison are secure, the depth behind them remains uncertain.
Among the undrafted candidates, Jeshaun Jones has demonstrated promise. Having learned crucial offensive schemes and dynamics, competition for roster spots will be intense, potentially influenced by special teams performance.
5. Miscellaneous Updates
The race for the No. 3 running back position remains competitive. Ty Chandler possesses special teams experience, but Zavier Scott has displayed notable talent lately.
Defensive positions are also shifting, with various players stepping into different roles as the season nears. Safety Jay Ward showed increased confidence, while rookie linebacker Kobe King has been getting valuable snaps, posing questions for veteran contracts moving forward.
