In this episode of The Real Forno Show, hosts Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano dive deep into the Minnesota Vikings’ two-day joint practices with the New England Patriots at TCO Performance Center on August 13-14, 2025. Forness, reporting live from the scene, breaks down first-year starter QB J.J. McCarthy’s standout performance, defensive highlights and concerns under Brian Flores, injury updates, and preseason implications. As a Vikings 1st & SKOL production partnered with Fans First Sports Network, this Minnesota Vikings podcast delivers unfiltered analysis that’s a must for fans craving insider scoops on the 2025 NFL training camp.
Forness highlights McCarthy’s banner day, noting his 12 consecutive completions, clutch TD in situational drills, and growing chemistry with Jordan Addison—calling it his best camp yet amid national media buzz. However, he tempers excitement by emphasizing the need for regular-season proof. The defense shone with Jalen Redmond earning Patriots reporters’ praise for disruptive plays, Jonathan Greenard’s elite pass-rushing, and rookie Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins’ upside, but vulnerabilities to wheel routes and Jeff Okudah’s coverage struggles in 1-on-1s raise flags. Offensive line depth impressed via Donovan Jackson’s pancake blocks and power, while wide receiver backups like Lucky Jackson and Jeshaun Jones showed solid potential amid Jalen Nailor’s hand injury concerns.
Other key points include:
- Injuries: Josh Metellus (shoulder) and Nailor (hand) down, with Metellus claiming he’s fine; veterans like Harrison Smith rested.
- QB room: Sam Howell as a “gamer,” Max Brosmer shining in limited reps, potentially QB3.
- Running backs: Aaron Jones’ 50-yard wheel-route TD; Xavier Scott building momentum.
- Preseason preview: Backups dominate Saturday’s game vs. Patriots, focusing on evaluation over starters.
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Tyler Forness @TheRealForno of Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and A to Z Sports @AtoZSportsNFL, with Dave Stefano @Luft_Krigare producing this Vikings 1st & SKOL production, the @RealFornoShow. Podcasts partnered with Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN and the network’s NFL feed over at Pro Football Insiders @Pro_FB_Insiders. Your ultimate source for NFL insights, breaking news, and expert analysis. From draft prospects to game-day strategies, we’ve got the inside scoop!
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