When the Minnesota Vikings and Cleveland Browns squared off after a grueling week of joint practices, the tension was palpable. Both teams were eager to test their mettle, sharpen their skills, and, most importantly, avoid any serious injuries. Thankfully, the game concluded without any significant injuries, though the practices leading up to it were far from gentle. The Vikings, despite the challenges, managed to stand tall under pressure and secure a win that might not have been pretty but was certainly satisfying.
Now, let’s be honest—the game wasn’t exactly an all-star showcase, especially considering that most of the Vikings' starters sat this one out. Outside of Ed Ingram, the first team was notably absent, a trend that’s becoming more common across the NFL as teams prioritize player safety during the preseason. So, while the final grade is reflective of the players who did hit the field, it’s important to remember that we weren’t seeing the Vikings at full strength. That said, let’s break down how each position group performed and what it could mean for the upcoming season.
Quarterbacks: Grade B+
Without Sam Darnold or J.J. McCarthy to steer the ship, it was up to Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall to hold the fort. And you know what? They did a pretty solid job. Mullens, the seasoned veteran, handled the pressure well, making smart decisions and showing the kind of poise you want in a backup. Hall, on the other hand, displayed flashes of potential that could make the third-string quarterback spot an intriguing storyline as roster cuts approach. It’s a competition worth keeping an eye on, as both players could make a case for staying on the team.
Running Backs: Grade B
The running back room was a mixed bag in this matchup. Myles Gaskin and Kene Nwangwu showed some promise, with Nwangwu in particular reminding everyone why he’s such a threat with his speed and explosiveness. However, the absence of Ty Chandler was felt, and DeWayne McBride failed to make a significant impact. It was an okay day overall, but not one that will have anyone in the Vikings' front office feeling overly confident. Still, Nwangwu’s performance was a bright spot, and he could be a player to watch as the season progresses.
Wide Receivers and Tight Ends: Grade A
If there’s one group that consistently delivered, it’s the wide receivers and tight ends. These guys were lights out on Saturday, building on their strong debut against the Raiders with an even more impressive performance against the Browns. Despite facing a talented secondary, they made plays all over the field, creating separation, making tough catches, and generally looking like a well-oiled machine. It’s clear that this unit is one of the team’s strengths, and they could be a key factor in any success the Vikings hope to achieve this season.
Offensive Line: Grade D+
Now, let’s talk about the offensive line—because, well, we have to. The first half was nothing short of a disaster. From the first whistle to the last, Nick Mullens was under siege, with the offensive line struggling to keep the Browns' pass rush at bay. Things improved slightly in the second half, but not by much. The performance of the second-team offensive line is now a major concern for the Vikings as they head into the 2024 season. If they don’t get this sorted out, it could spell trouble down the line, especially if injuries force some of these backups into starting roles.
Defensive Line: Grade B+
On the defensive side, the line was a bright spot. Whenever you can disrupt the backfield early and often, it’s a good day at the office. The Vikings' defensive line racked up three sacks, nine quarterback hits, and five tackles for loss—a very efficient and effective outing. This kind of performance is exactly what the team needs from this group, as they look to set the tone on defense. If they can maintain this level of play, it could be a pivotal part of the team’s success this year.
Linebackers: Grade C-
The linebackers, unfortunately, didn’t have their best day. With Blake Cashman and the rest of the starters sitting out, the backups were left to hold the fort—and they struggled. The group gave up several chunk plays and were on the verge of allowing three scoring drives before turnovers saved the day. While it’s understandable that the absence of starters would lead to a dip in performance, the drop-off was concerning. This is a position group that needs to tighten up, especially if they hope to compete at a high level during the regular season.
Secondary: Grade A-
Last week, the Vikings' secondary looked like a weak link, but they flipped the script against the Browns. Although they allowed a few big plays, they showed resilience, bending but not breaking. The unit came up big with three interceptions, demonstrating a knack for coming through in clutch moments. This bounce-back performance is encouraging, and it gives the team something to build on as they prepare for the regular season. If the secondary can continue to create turnovers while minimizing big plays, they’ll be a formidable force in the back end of the defense.
Conclusion
The Vikings’ performance against the Browns was a mixed bag, but there were enough positives to warrant some optimism. The wide receivers and tight ends look like a powerhouse group, the defensive line was disruptive, and the secondary showed they can create turnovers. However, the offensive line and linebackers need significant improvement if the team wants to compete at a high level this season. With roster cuts looming, every practice and game from here on out will be crucial for players trying to secure their spot. The competition is heating up, and it’s going to be fascinating to see how it all shakes out as the Vikings gear up for what promises to be an intriguing season ahead.
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