It’s just a joint practice but based on what’s been funneled onto social media, the Vikings dominated the Cardinals on Wednesday.
Arizona players, accustomed to the intense desert heat but not the humidity that has the heat index in the Twin Cities over 100 degrees for a second day in a row, appears to be steps behind Minnesota.
Multiple videos of Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, former Cardinals defensive back Byron Murphy Jr. and numerous other Vikings making big plays have been shared on Twitter.
Here’s the rookie Addison, who missed last week’s joint practices with the Titans because of a concussion, getting wide open for an easy reception.
#Vikings first round pick Jordan Addison has looked unstoppable right now! pic.twitter.com/S6zQsJNXb6
— Leighton Glodek (@LGlodek) August 23, 2023
Here’s Kirk Cousins going deep to Brandon Powell for a 50-yard touchdown.
Kirk Cousins to Brandon Powell!
Powell has been one of the most explosive players on the field today. #skol pic.twitter.com/mztoMnIF4I
— Leighton Glodek (@LGlodek) August 23, 2023
Here’s Jefferson catching a pass over his shoulder near the sideline for a big gain.
I REPEAT! DO NOT POKE THE BEAR! #skol pic.twitter.com/grywo16ivM
— Leighton Glodek (@LGlodek) August 23, 2023
Here’s Trishton Jackson catching a touchdown in the front corner of the end zone.
They need to give Thishton Jackson more reps with the 1s
All this dude does is make plays! #skol pic.twitter.com/aWWwlmhzEo
— Leighton Glodek (@LGlodek) August 23, 2023
Here’s Murphy Jr. not only intercepting a pass in one-on-one drills, but also deflecting a pass that rookie linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. intercepts.
Marquise Brown vs. Byron Murphy Jr. pic.twitter.com/p59vJY4Slg
— vikesinsider (@vikesinsider) August 23, 2023
Byron Murphy with the deflection, Ivan Pace Jr. with the INT!
This is going to be a dynamic duo this year! #skol pic.twitter.com/dJVzeWKPZu
— Leighton Glodek (@LGlodek) August 23, 2023
Here’s Cousins going deep to Jalen Reagor for a huge gain.
Kirk Cousins throws a BOMB deep downfield to Jalen Reagor during the situational drive at the end of practice today: pic.twitter.com/NgwGPueCxF
— vikesinsider (@vikesinsider) August 23, 2023
Arizona is expected to be one of the worst teams in the NFL this season while the Vikings are projected by many to be in the mix in a difficult NFC. The two squads will practice together again Thursday before resting up Friday and then playing the final preseason game Saturday at 12 p.m.
Update on TJ Hockenson’s health
Meanwhile, head coach Kevin O’Connell had an update on tight end T.J. Hockenson, who hasn’t been involved in team drills since Aug. 3.
“He’s recovered from his ear infection. He did recently come into me and [the training staff] and just came in with some lower back stiffness where he was off to the side today,” said O’Connell. “Possibly have him tomorrow or be ready to roll when we start our general prep next week.”
O’Connell said Hockenson has not indicated that his absence from full team practices has anything to do with his contract status.
“Hopefully this is a day to day thing where we can maybe get him back out here as soon as tomorrow,” O’Connell added.
