Minnesota Vikings' training camp is hitting a notable phase this week, with the New England Patriots at TCO Performance Center for two days of joint practices ahead of the preseason game between the two teams on Saturday.
Joint practices have become what coaches prefer as a way to get starters some preseason work, without the injury risk of playing in a preseason game. Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell is definitely a strong proponent of them, and for players, it's an opportunity to compete against an opponent.
Training camp position battles can also take on a different tenor with the upward tick in intensity during joint practices.