2. Defensive newcomers show up
The newest veteran on the Vikings, Jamal Adams, acclimated quickly to his change of scenery and new uniform No. – 54. The 30-year-old former safety settled in with the inside linebackers during individual drills and got plenty of work in the second level with the second defense in 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 periods.
Adams showed feel for space and sinking into zones. On one snap, he provided tight underneath coverage in tandem with a deep safety on a McCarthy pass that was denied over the middle of the field. Later, he nearly disrupted a seam shot to TE Gavin Bartholomew, but McCarthy had just the right touch.
Another veteran preparing for his first Vikings season, James Pierre, forced the only turnover of the day. The 29-year-old cornerback who signed in free agency high-pointed a pass that Murray probably wanted back (it appeared to be affected at the line of scrimmage by Redmond). Pierre plucked it with ease, but he stayed on the ground for a moment, likely due to a cramp, and eventually jogged off.
Earlier in the session, Pierre tapped into his length and closed his cushion with purpose on an in-breaker intended for Justin Jefferson and broke it up. He also was in ideal position on a laser beam over the middle to Addison, but the receiver wrestled the rock away and made a strong catch with his fingertips.