The quarterback situation was front and center after practice during the second day of Vikings minicamp Wednesday.
The competition between Matt Cassel, Christian Ponder and what could be a yet-to-be drafted rookie is just beginning.
According to the USA Today Sports, Cassel took most of the reps with the first team on Wednesday, while Ponder saw the majority of the second team snaps.
The Vikings haven’t said publicly, which if either quarterback will be their starter.
Cassel spoke to reporters following the practice and said he thinks there is competition every year. Many view Cassel as the front runner for the starting job, fresh off his new two-year contract that is paying him $10.5 million, but Cassel is being more cautious.
“I don’t take anything for granted,” said Cassel. “This is a new coaching staff a new regime, you never know what’s going to happen.”
While Cassel has the new deal, on the other end of the perspective there is a lot up in the air for Ponder. This is the last year on his rookie contract and the Vikings have not indicated whether or not they will pick up his option.
https://twitter.com/GoesslingESPN/status/461607791179087872
The minicamp is really giving offensive coordinator, Norv Turner, a chance to evaluate both Cassel and Ponder before they finalize their draft plans.
Many experts think the Vikings will be in the market to draft a quarterback in the first round. If the Vikings spend a high pick on a quarterback there could be pressure for him to play early.
Even drafting a quarterback early though may not spell the end for Ponder’s time in Minnesota. There is no real advantage for the Vikings to release him right now.
https://twitter.com/GoesslingESPN/status/461611586449600513
Ponder isn’t looking at the situation like he has been put on the bench. Instead, he said that he’s coming into it competing for the job.
Christian Ponder: “I think the expectation (from people) is that (Cassel is) going to be the starter, but for me I’m competing for the job''
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) April 30, 2014
He added that he hopes the Vikings don’t take a quarterback, in the first round. He said he thinks they have enough at the position. The Vikings wrap up the three-day minicamp on Thursday at Winter Park.
The new @Vikings Offensive Coordinator Norv Turner with Vikings QB's Christian Ponder and Matt Cassel at mini camp. pic.twitter.com/owTgl93i92
— Paul Rovelstad (@Rover_All_Over) April 30, 2014
