Competition begins with first day of Vikings training camp

MANKATO, Minn. (KMSP) - It’s day one of many more work weeks to come for the Minnesota Vikings.

The grind gets going on the first day of training camp in Mankato and this team is already trying to hit another gear.

“We’ve been around here when [we have] expectations early in the season and then we drop the ball. So it’s a matter of doing day in and day out and do what we did last year, but bring it a little bit further,” said Brian Robison, Vikings Defensive End.

From assistant coaches, to acquisitions in free agency, plenty of changes surround this camp, but with the new personnel, also comes a new challenge - competition in all phases.

“It’s full blown competition out here, there should be no one safe out here. Lot of good guys with a lot of playing experience.  It’s going to be a great battle,” said Brandon Fusco, Vikings Guard.

“I feel that competition brings the best out of everybody,” said Captain Munnerlyn, Vikings Cornerback. "I pick my game up a little bit more. Less time for errors. Pick it up and make plays.”

The offense certainly has spots up for grabs from the strength of the o-line to skill positions, like wide receiver.

The pads are not on yet, but Head Coach Mike Zimmer has a plan of how he wants to see his offense take shape in the following weeks.

“I think we have a decent amount of talent here and I want to be able to use that talent. I don’t want some guy that can help us standing on the sideline,” said Zimmer.

Games are not won and lost here in July, but the next few days do dictate a direction. This Vikings team is looking forward, no matter the expectation, or pre-season excitement that’s all around.