Cornerback Cameron Dantzler went from a rookie Vikings starter to being in street clothes on the sideline to open his second NFL season, watching his teammates play despite being healthy and available.
Dantzler, a 2020 third-round pick who had two interceptions in 10 starts last year, said the experience was eye-opening.
"It was quite a surprise," he said Thursday. "I feel like that humbled me and made me hungry. Just came to practice every day and worked harder, so that won't ever happen again."
A few circumstances, including improved effort in practices and on special teams as well as an injury to fellow reserve corner Harrison Hand, brought Dantzler out of the doghouse and back onto the field last week in Arizona.