NFC North Rundown: Vikings’ 2020 first-round picks have a rocky week

Minnesota’s first two selections in last year’s draft gave the team two nightmare scenarios during the second week of camp.

If there is any one thing that NFL teams worry most about during training camp, it is injuries. Fortunately, the Minnesota Vikings were able to survive that very scare to an important player last week.

The team may have feared the worst when wide receiver Justin Jefferson landed on his shoulder on Friday, but the injury appears to be minor from initial reports. While the Vikings expect a full return for one of their first-round picks last year, they will not have another when the 2021 season gets underway.

Today’s NFC North rundown touches on the release of Jeff Gladney, but also dives into a few linebackers making noise around the division, as well as a bright showing for Jared Goff in the Lions’ intrasquad scrimmage.

Chicago Bears

7 takeaways from the Bears’ 10th training camp practice

Several linebackers have made an impression for far in Bears camp with their pass-rushing and coverage skills.

‘Obsessed’ Bears LB Roquan Smith wrecks offenses with his mind

Mental preparation has allowed Smith to anticipate plays and be “one step ahead” many times over the last couple of years. Head Coach Matt Nagy likens the young linebacker to a former All-Pro.

How a missed field goal brought Cairo Santos to the cliff of his NFL career — and got the Chicago Bears kicker in a franchise record-setting groove

After a missed field goal in Week 3 last season, Santos’ NFL future was uncertain, but he was able to maintain a positive head space and make 27 straight field goals from that point on.

Minnesota Vikings

8 Takeaways from Vikings Training Camp So Far

Irv Smith, Jr. was discussed heavily this offseason in attempting to replace Kyle Rudolph as the starter and he is living up to the hype in the first two weeks of training camp.

Justin Jefferson injured in practice, reportedly not serious

The Vikings received a scare last week in practice, but it appears that the blossoming second-year player should make a quick recovery.

Minnesota Vikings release CB Jeff Gladney after he is indicted on felony assault charge

Minnesota’s 2020 first-round pick was released after being indicted on felony assault, stemming from his April arrest.

Detroit Lions

Day 10 notes and observations: Jared Goff throws 3 TD passes in sharp outing at Lions’ intrasquad scrimmage

Goff used his tight ends effectively throughout the scrimmage, improving upon what had been a shaky start to training camp for the new Lions quarterback.

Things to Watch Week 3 at Detroit Lions Training Camp

Physicality and fighting between players will be one area to watch specifically this week after an altercation during practice.

Lions rookie WR Amon-Ra St. Brown makes most of increased looks in scrimmage at Ford Field

The brother of Equanimeous made some splash plays in an increased role during the scrimmage while four Lions receivers sat out due to injury.