**EAGAN, Minn. —** We're 68 days away from a Vikings game day and 98 days out from the real thing.
For now, however, Organized Team Activity practices must suffice. In the leadup to Minnesota's exhibition opener against the Texans and its 2025 season-ignitor on the road at Chicago, there's plenty to monitor.
Like, how the Vikings secondary takes shape after several departures, and how the defensive front incorporates a couple well-schooled newbies; how the offensive line progresses with two presumptive starters on the mend from major injuries, not to mention getting a first-rounder up to NFL speed; and, maybe, most importantly, how a fully recovered J.J. McCarthy gels with what's now _his_ team.
It helps, obviously, that star wide receiver Justin Jefferson is voluntarily in the building, and on the field, strengthening his rapport with the highest-drafted quarterback in franchise history.
"I got to know him a lot last year, but of course him being my quarterback this year, being able to talk to him or just pick his brain a little bit more, see what he likes, what he doesn't like, how he throws the ball, all that is a big factor into a quarterback," Jefferson shared with Twin Cities media members at the conclusion of Monday's session. "So just trying to learn every bit that I can, even off the field – just trying to chop it up and make sure we are well connected."
Defensive tackle Harrison Phillips followed Jefferson at the outdoor podium and for more than a dozen minutes discussed topics, including what Pro Bowl players Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave bring to the d-line room, and why he feels so strongly, and so good, about what Minnesota was able to accomplish in the spring.
"It's exciting when you see the moves that they made and you see the drive from the top down, from our ownership, to our head coach, to our GM, to our coaching staff," Phillips said after a reporter applauded his energy. "The push that they're showing, and confidence in us, makes us work even harder in the offseason, and makes us want to make our coaches and our organization, and fans, proud as well.
"You'd hate to be the one loose chain on the link," he continued. "Our entire team feels that same way."