The Minnesota Vikings are preparing to resume Organized Team Activities (OTAs) later this month as they continue building momentum for the 2025 season.
On Monday, Ben Goessling of the Star Tribune confirmed a development that had been anticipated for weeks: the Vikings will host the New England Patriots for joint practices in August ahead of their Week 2 preseason matchup.
Vikings to Host Patriots for Joint Practices
This marks the fifth time under head coach Kevin O’Connell that the Vikings will participate in joint practices. Here’s a look at their recent history:
- 2022: San Francisco 49ers
- 2023: Tennessee Titans and Arizona Cardinals
- 2024: Cleveland Browns (held in Cleveland)
Joint practices have become increasingly popular across the NFL. Many coaches — O’Connell included — believe these sessions offer more value than traditional preseason games, especially because starters often face top-tier talent from opposing teams.
O’Connell has emphasized the importance of joint practices throughout his tenure. Back in 2023, during a joint session with Mike Vrabel’s Titans, he explained how the unpredictable nature of the drills also helps him grow as a play-caller. He noted that he often changes plays or formations on the fly, partly to challenge players and partly to test his own in-game instincts. It’s about teaching concepts, not just memorizing plays — and being versatile across different spots in the formation.
Interestingly, Vrabel joked at the owners’ meetings that Minnesota’s cheese curds were part of the appeal in scheduling the practices. But beyond that, these sessions offer a valuable opportunity: they’ll give the Vikings a chance to evaluate rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy against a live NFL defense.
For the first time, McCarthy will get to throw to top-tier targets like Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson in a competitive environment. It’s a critical step in getting him ready for his expected first NFL start, and the sessions will offer early insight into how well he’s adjusting to the pro level. With fellow 2024 top-10 pick Drake Maye also in the mix, these joint practices will definitely draw plenty of attention.
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