Minnesota Vikings: Observations from Team OTAs
Most Expecting a Big Year from Bridgewater
After his rookie season, most expected Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to take a step forward, but adding Adrian Peterson back to the offense after a year without him was a big change. That being said, Bridgewater still had a great season and lead the team to a Division Championship, he just did not have the stats most expected.
Now after a year with Peterson, and understanding the offense even more, it is Teddy’s time to shine. There has been talk of Teddy “letting it fly” and “taking more chances” from both Head Coach Mike Zimmer and General Manager Rick Spielman. With the offseason additions of reinforcements along the offensive line, and help at wide receiver, Teddy should have plenty of support to make the third year jump. Bridgewater was asked about the upcoming season.
"I just want to continue to get better, continue to do my job, so the guy next to me is able to do his job well. It’s my third year now, playing for Coach Zimmer. I know what to expect. I know what he wants from his players. Understanding his message is going to help continue to motivate this team."
Over the team’s OTAs, Bridgewater has been seen “letting it fly” a lot more. He has been making a lot of downfield throws and looks matured in the eyes of Zimmer. Zimmer shared what he saw from Bridgewater over the last couple weeks.
"Yesterday he had a really good day. He threw the ball really, really well, and I thought he threw the ball well today too. You know, he just seems to be cutting it loose a little bit more. He sees it and he lets it go. He’s shown some really nice deep balls. He seems like he’s, I guess, matured, and he’s more comfortable in everything that he does."
Bridgewater is in position to have a big year and he will be the key to the Minnesota Vikings taking it to the next level. It all lays in the hands of Bridgewater. He has the pieces around him to take the next step, now can he make the leap. It looks as if he is putting in the work.
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The Vikings OTA’s are just the start of the offseason workout program. Training camp will be the last chance players have to show the coaching staff that they have what it takes to make the roster. If the Vikings can keep their blue-collar work hard attitude they will be just fine rolling into the season.