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Rookie minicamps came and went this past week, giving NFL teams their first true glances at their newest offseason acquisitions.
Perhaps no player across the NFC North received as much attention as the Chicago Bears’ latest quarterback hopeful, Justin Fields, who earned plenty of hype after his first work with the coaching staff. However, optimism and energy continues to brew in Detroit with Matt Campbell and company giving off a renewed aura of intensity and toughness.
Today’s rundown draws on each of those stories from the past week, while also checking in Mike Zimmer’s daily praise for Minnesota’s rookie class.
Detroit Lions
Detroit Lions’ Dan Campbell wants pet lion for sideline, would give up arm for Super Bowl
The Lions’ new head coach made some colorful remarks on a recent podcast, including his desire for a pet lion to roam the practice field as well as placing a taxadermied sheep on the sideline.
Observations from Lions 2021 rookie mini-camp
Mini-camps provided the first look at the Lions’ top draft picks, as well as the team’s new defensive coordinator.
Driven Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown ‘ready to take someone’s job’
The feet, hands, and make-up of the division’s newest member of the St. Brown family are drawing praise from Detroit teammates and coaches.
Minnesota Vikings
Vikings trade away CB Mike Hughes to the Chiefs
After declining Hughes’ fifth-year option last week, Minnesota dealt the former first-round pick to an AFC competitor.
Presser Points: Zimmer Gives Early Evals on Darrisaw, Mond, Other Vikings Draft Picks
Post-practice pressers from the Vikings’ head coach revealed praise to a number of the team’s recent draft choices, including the term “brilliance” given to a fourth-round safety.
Vikings sign CB Parry Nickerson and T Evin Ksiezarczyk
A former Packer secondary member is moving across the western border in 2021.
Chicago Bears
Chicago Bears: 3 things Justin Fields proved at rookie minicamp
The Ohio State rookie received rave reviews in terms of his confidence and leadership last week, leading many ready to pencil him in as the Bears’ starting quarterback sooner rather than later.
Bears OLB Charles Snowden is not your typical undrafted rookie
Originally expected to go late in day two or early in day three of the draft, Snowden is not only trying to make the team, but help improve the Bears’ pass rush.
Bears OT Borom drops weight, gains quickness
Looking for immediate offensive line help, Chicago could give early playing time to a fifth-round pick in 2021, in addition to second-rounder Teven Jenkins.