“Whether it’s your first time coming out to watch us practice, the first time coming to the night practice, I just want to tell you guys something: We have the best fans in the National Football League,” O’Connell said. “And I really believe that now going on four years, but I have to say this year just kind of feels different. The energy during the day over there, when we practice on the other side, on our fields, has been phenomenal. Tonight, felt it from the jump, you guys and your energy for these guys right here.
“And let me tell you something, they deserve it. They deserve it. This football team is having a great camp,” O’Connell continued. “You guys know this about me. I’m not really in the prediction game. I’m not in that business, but I can tell you right now what we’re forging in this group, this football team right here, I think you’re gonna be very proud of this team this year. We’re gonna get ready to go to work, and Monday Night Football at Chicago is going to come here before you know it.”
It’s unequivocally true. In just five weeks, the Vikings will be opening their regular season against the Bears at Soldier Field.
Receiver Justin Jefferson remains sidelined because of a hamstring strain but received a raucous ovation from the crowd. Tight end T.J. Hockenson, center Ryan Kelly and Joshua Metellus were dealing with what O’Connell described as “some day-to-day normal training camp bumps and bruises.”
Defensive lineman Jonathan Allen and safety Harrison Smith had the night off, as part of Minnesota’s plan for the veterans.