Tuesday’s practice resembled a two-hour walkthrough with a jogging pace, just a few full-team drills in the red zone, and many players watching from the sideline.
At least nine players did not participate, including safety Harrison Smith, outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel, linebacker Blake Cashman, left tackle Christian Darrisaw and fullback C.J. Ham. This was Cashman’s first absence. Van Ginkel and Ham, both dealing with undisclosed issues, and Smith (illness) have missed over a week. Darrisaw practiced Monday and has often taken rest days during his recovery from last year’s knee injury.
Rodriguez (ankle), receiver Jalen Nailor (hand), outside linebacker Tyler Batty (wrist) and offensive lineman Henry Byrd (ankle) also did not practice.
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson finds shelter from the heat under a towel during practice at the TCO Performance Center in Eagan on Tuesday. (Elizabeth Flores/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
The team signed two players — running back Xazavian Valladay and offensive lineman Zack Bailey — for depth entering Friday night’s preseason finale in Tennessee. O’Connell rested more than 30 players, including all starters, last week against the Patriots and is expected to do the same against the Titans. The Vikings waived linebacker Max Tooley for roster space.