Vikings training camp begins July 2025 with J.J. McCarthy, as a major setback for the rival Lions could reshape the NFC North. Can Minnesota capitalize?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The unmistakable buzz of a new season is back in Eagan. The Vikings' 2025 campaign officially kicked off Sunday as quarterbacks and rookies, led by the highly anticipated J.J. McCarthy, reported for training camp. But as the future of the franchise walked through the doors at TCO Performance Center, a shockwave rumbled through the NFC North, as a major setback for the rival Detroit Lions may have just reshaped the entire division race before the first whistle has even blown.
The Vikings aim to build on a 14–3 record from 2024, seeking back-to-back playoff appearances for the first time since 2009 and an end to a five-year playoff victory drought.
The first wave of players, 40 in total, have officially checked in for the 2025 season. This group, comprised of quarterbacks, the entire rookie class, and a few select veterans, signals the start of on-field preparations. Fans eager to get their first look at the new-look Vikings can circle Saturday, July 26, on their calendars for the first of 12 public practices. The intensity will ramp up quickly, with the first fully-padded practice scheduled for Monday, July 28. All eyes will be on J.J. McCarthy as he takes the reins of the offense, but the rebuilt lines on both sides of the ball will be just as critical to watch.
While the Vikings began their season with optimism, one of their chief rivals started with turmoil. News broke that the Detroit Lions have suffered a significant, albeit unspecified, setback to a key player or part of their roster. In a division that is always a slugfest, any major injury or issue for a competitor is a potential game-changer. This early development could provide the Vikings with a crucial edge as they look to defend their strong 2024 showing and reclaim the NFC North crown. The division race just got a whole lot more interesting.
Beyond the rookies, early reports from camp are overwhelmingly positive. Crucially, star left tackle Christian Darrisaw is present and accounted for, anchoring the offensive line. On the other side of the ball, newly acquired defensive tackle Javon Hargrave is already making his presence felt, reportedly impressing coaches and teammates with his power and quickness. With the team confirming no major injuries among key players heading into the first week, health is on Minnesota's side—a massive advantage at the start of the grueling camp schedule.
This season marks the 65th in franchise history and the fourth under the leadership of GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and Head Coach Kevin O'Connell. After a stellar 14-3 campaign in 2024, the pressure is on to not just repeat that success but to build upon it. The primary goals are clear: achieve back-to-back playoff appearances for the first time in over 15 years and, more importantly, secure the team's first postseason victory since the 2019 season. The era of 'good enough' is over; this regime is built to win now.
With the foundation laid by the early arrivals and a potential crack in a rival's armor, all eyes now turn to Tuesday when the full veteran squad reports. The energy at TCO Performance Center is palpable, and the countdown is officially on for the first full-squad, full-pads practice on July 28. The journey of the 2025 season has begun, and it's already shaping up to be a memorable one. Skol!
