As the Minnesota Vikings gear up for the 2025 NFL season, their mandatory mini-camp from June 10-12, 2025, offered fans a tantalizing glimpse into the team’s future. On the latest episode of Two Old Bloggers, hosts Darren Campbell and Dave Stefano, seasoned commentators with over two decades of Vikings coverage, break down the key storylines from mini-camp and the latest offseason developments. Aired on Father’s Day, June 15, 2025, this Vikings 1st & SKOL production, in partnership with the Fans First Sports Network, delivers sharp analysis and insider insights for fans hungry for purple-and-gold news. From J.J. McCarthy’s scrutinized reps to Dallas Turner’s physical transformation, Christian Darrisaw’s recovery, and roster moves like Josh Oliver’s extension, this episode is packed with must-know updates. Let’s dive into the highlights.

J.J. McCarthy: Growing Pains or Promising Start?

The Spotlight on QB1

The Vikings’ 2025 season hinges on rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the tenth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Sidelined for his entire rookie year due to a meniscus injury, McCarthy’s return to full health has fans and analysts buzzing. At mini-camp, every throw was under the microscope, and the results were a mixed bag. Darren Campbell noted, “Right from now, every practice, everything that’s open to the media through training camp, until game one on September 8th against the Bears, the scrutiny on JJ McCarthy is going to be the number one topic pretty much every day.”

McCarthy threw interceptions on Day 2, sparking concern among some observers. However, Campbell dismissed the panic, comparing McCarthy’s struggles to Sam Darnold’s uneven 2024 mini-camp, which preceded a Pro Bowl season. “I say this is not a big deal… It is good to struggle. That is where you get the growth, especially if you’re a 22-year-old who has never started an NFL game,” Campbell said. Reports from beat writers like Ben Goessling reinforced this, noting McCarthy’s full medical clearance and confidence: “He’s been participating all offseason, and he hasn’t felt his surgically-repaired knee at all” (Ben Goessling on X).

Arm Strength and Leadership

Debates about McCarthy’s arm strength, fueled by national media like Colin Cowherd, were quashed by local praise. Dave Stefano highlighted endorsements from teammates and analysts: “Matthew Coller, Judd Zulgad, Tyler… everybody saying, no dudes, you’re way wrong. The dude’s got a rocket.” Justin Jefferson praised McCarthy’s zip and tight spirals, while Josh Metellus compared his throws to Sean Mannion’s, per Will Ragatz (Will Ragatz on X). A 61 MPH throw, reported by Vikings1stSKOL, further silenced doubters (Vikings1stSKOL on X).

Beyond mechanics, McCarthy’s leadership shone. He vowed to stay in Minnesota to throw with Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson, saying, “If I have to go find them, I will” (Ben Goessling on X). Jefferson called him “the captain of our team,” per the Star Tribune (Star Tribune). Stefano enthused, “He’s building the whole team mentorship thing… You can’t beat that.” With coaches like Kevin O’Connell emphasizing reps as learning opportunities, McCarthy appears on track, though his inexperience keeps the pressure on.

Dallas Turner: Poised for a Breakout Year

A Second-Year Leap in the Making

Edge rusher Dallas Turner, a 2024 first-round pick, disappointed in his rookie season, failing to meet the expectations set for a high draft selection. However, mini-camp showcased a transformed player, both physically and mentally. Campbell observed, “He looks noticeably bigger, particularly on the lower half this year… It looks like he has done that because you gotta be able to hold the edge at the NFL level.” Turner’s added 10-15 pounds of muscle suggest he’s ready to anchor against NFL linemen.

A standout moment came on Day 1, when Turner broke up a pass in coverage during a seven-on-seven drill, earning roars from teammates (Turner’s Minicamp Highlights). Defensive coordinator Brian Flores raved about Turner’s work ethic and football IQ, explaining his muted 2024 as part of a developmental process. “Flores referred to him this week as one of three starting edge rushers—along with Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel,” Campbell said, signaling increased opportunities in 2025.

Versatility and Impact

Turner’s role may extend beyond pass-rushing, with Flores deploying him in coverage, reminiscent of Anthony Barr’s hybrid role under Mike Zimmer. Stefano predicted, “I could see all three edge rushers—Greenard, Van Ginkel, and Turner—on the field at the same time… It will be hugely impactful.” Turner’s 2024 interception against Seattle highlighted his athleticism, and with 500-600 projected defensive snaps, he could ease the workload on Greenard and Van Ginkel, who logged over 900 snaps each last year. Campbell concluded, “I think you’re gonna see a way big uptick in production from him… This weekend’s mini-camp, the focus is clearly on him.”

Christian Darrisaw: A Beacon of Hope on the Offensive Line

A Surprise Return

Left tackle Christian Darrisaw, considered among the NFL’s top three at his position, suffered a torn ACL and MCL in October 2024, casting doubt on his 2025 availability. His unexpected return to individual drills on June 10, 2025, sent shockwaves through Vikings Nation. Campbell marveled, “He looked sharp in the videos… lots of explosion and moving well, very smoothly, very fluidly.” Videos from the Vikings’ YouTube channel, titled “First Look at Christian Darrisaw During 2025 Minicamp Practice,” showcased his agility (Darrisaw Minicamp Video).

Despite the optimism, Campbell cautioned, “Does that mean he’s going to be ready to start at left tackle on September the eighth when we play the Chicago Bears? I’m not sure about that yet.” T.J. Hockenson’s similar injury last year delayed his return until November, though Darrisaw’s surgery on November 4, 2024, gives him a three-month head start. Stefano noted, “He was squatting down and that puts the most stress on the knee… It’s a good sign.” The Vikings’ cautious approach, led by player health VP Tyler Williams, suggests a timeline extending beyond Week 1, with Justin Skule signed as depth.

Long-Term Outlook

Darrisaw’s durability remains a concern, having never played a full NFL season in four years. Campbell lamented, “There’s always been a few… concussions or ankle or various injuries.” However, Stefano saw a silver lining: “There may be a benefit out of this that he comes back even more of a beast.” O’Connell praised Darrisaw’s rehab, saying he’s “knocking it out of the park,” per Campbell. With the offensive line’s late-2024 struggles after Darrisaw’s injury, his return is critical to protecting McCarthy and powering the run game.

Josh Oliver’s Extension: Locking in a Key Cog

A Strategic Move

On June 10, 2025, the Vikings extended tight end Josh Oliver with a three-year, $23.25 million deal, maxing at $27.5 million, with $19.9 million guaranteed (Oliver’s Contract Details). Campbell called it “a very generous extension,” noting Oliver’s role as a blocking tight end who rarely exceeds 50% of offensive snaps. However, he defended the investment: “There aren’t many tight ends that NFL teams feel comfortable having blocking edge rushers and defensive ends one-on-one, which the Vikings do regularly with Josh Oliver.”

Oliver’s 2024 stats—22 receptions for 258 yards and three touchdowns—complemented his elite run-blocking, graded at 74.2 by PFF, the highest among tight ends (Oliver’s Blocking Prowess). Aaron Jones likened him to a “power forward,” per the Vikings’ official site. Stefano emphasized the strategic fit: “With Kevin O’Connell, Wes Phillips, and the whole crew wanting to be able to run the ball more… he will be a part of that.” The extension, alongside T.J. Hockenson’s deal, secures the tight end position through 2028, allowing the Vikings to focus on other needs.

Fan and Media Reactions

The deal surprised some, given Darren Wolfson’s June 7 report that Oliver had no interest in re-signing (Oliver’s Initial Hesitation). Fans like @reign_vikings saw it as a commitment to the run game, tweeting, “Josh Oliver’s extension tells me the team really wants to run the ball this year and take pressure off of McCarthy” (X Post by @reign_vikings). Campbell concluded, “This extension allows the Vikings to concentrate on other positions in 2026 and beyond in free agency and draft.”

Josh Metellus: The Versatile Star Awaiting His Payday

A Defensive Swiss Army Knife

Safety Josh Metellus, in the final year of a two-year, $8 million extension, is a cornerstone of Brian Flores’ defense. Campbell highlighted his value: “He’s never played less than 87% of the defensive snaps for the Vikings… and he’s a core special teamer as well.” Metellus’ 2024 stats—103 tackles, two interceptions, and a 94.2% snap count—underscore his versatility, playing safety, slot corner, linebacker, and even defensive line (Metellus Performance).

Negotiations are underway, but cap constraints loom, with the Vikings facing the NFL’s second-worst cap situation in 2026. Campbell compared Metellus to Jevon Holland’s three-year, $45.3 million deal, suggesting, “You can make a strong argument that Holland was not as good a player as Metellus was the last two years.” Stefano estimated a $10-14 million annual salary, likening Metellus to Taysom Hill: “He’s got a higher value to the Vikings than most other teams… because it’s, he’s got snaps at safety, corner, linebacker, even defensive line.”

A Pricey but Necessary Deal

Metellus’ limited participation in OTAs signals his push for a new contract, per Sports Illustrated (Metellus Holding In). With Cam Bynum now a Colt, Lewis Cine released, and Harrison Smith possibly in his final year, Campbell argued, “You sort of almost have to have Metellus back there right now.” Stefano predicted a deal before training camp, saying, “I bet it happens prior to training camp in August.” The Vikings’ commitment to team culture and homegrown talent makes Metellus a priority, despite the cost.

Jaire Alexander: A Risky Fit for the Vikings?

The NFC North Shocker

The Green Bay Packers’ release of cornerback Jaire Alexander on June 9, 2025, sent ripples through the NFC North, with the Vikings rumored as a potential destination (Alexander’s Release). Campbell noted, “Immediately when you look at the Vikings cornerback room, there was speculation that Jaire Alexander would be a good fit.” However, he expressed reservations: “My problem is that… Jaire Alexander has not been available… He only played four games total in 2021… seven games each [in 2023 and 2024].”

Alexander’s talent is undeniable, with a 79.9 passer rating when targeted in 2024, per CBS Sports (Alexander’s Injury Risk). Yet, his injury history—missing 34 of 68 games since 2021—draws comparisons to Marcus Davenport’s risky 2023 signing. Stefano raised cultural concerns: “He’s becoming a cancer up in Green Bay… Our team, from everything we hear, is very, very tight knit close.” Fans like Drew labeled Alexander a “diva,” echoing skepticism about his fit.

Cornerback Room Concerns

The Vikings’ cornerback depth, beyond Byron Murphy Jr., remains a weak spot, with Campbell stating, “Byron Murphy Jr. is the only guy on the cornerback room right now… who is an established starter.” Flores’ confidence in players like Isaiah Rodgers and Makai Blackmon contrasts with Campbell’s doubts, as Rodgers’ PFF grades are based on limited snaps. Stefano questioned, “If they wanted to bring [Alexander] in, do you think Brian Flores would be gushing about the DBs the way he has?” The hosts leaned against signing Alexander, favoring alternatives like re-signing Shaq Griffin.

Backup Quarterback Concerns: Howell, Rypien, or Bust?

A Thin QB Depth Chart

With McCarthy’s inexperience, the backup quarterback situation is a pressing concern. Campbell admitted, “The backup quarterback issue is something that is a concern to some Vikings fans, including myself.” The Vikings’ options include Sam Howell, acquired from the Seattle Seahawks, Brett Rypien, a journeyman familiar with O’Connell’s system, and undrafted rookie Max Brosmer. Campbell worried, “If something were to happen to JJ McCarthy… can they go in there and still keep the Vikings afloat and in a playoff position? It’s questionable.”

Howell, with a 5-13 record as a starter, showed promise at mini-camp, with beat writers noting his strong arm and decision-making. Stefano said, “From what I’m hearing from mini camp, he’s rounding in and getting more comfortable with the scheme.” However, Darren Wolfson reported a “legit competition” between Howell and Rypien, per Minnesota Sports with Mackey and Judd (Howell vs. Rypien). Rypien’s system knowledge is valued, but Campbell doubted his upside, saying, “I think it’s a long shot to feel that Rypien will beat Howell out.”

A Developmental Prospect

Brosmer, a former Golden Gopher, earned praise from Matthew Coller for his quick release and accuracy (Rookie Turning Heads). Campbell saw him as a long-term project: “I don’t think that he’s a guy that’s going to be your backup this year… but down the road to 2026, maybe 2027.” Stefano suggested Brosmer could become the QB3, with Rypien potentially transitioning to coaching. O’Connell’s confidence in Howell, expressed on April 25, 2025, indicates he’s the frontrunner (Trading for Howell).

The O’Connell Factor

Despite concerns, O’Connell’s track record of elevating quarterbacks like Kirk Cousins and Sam Darnold offers hope. Campbell noted, “Maybe the ace in the hole that the Vikings have here is Kevin O’Connell, who has shown… he can get the best and even better outta that talent.” If Howell falters, the Vikings could trade for a veteran like Kenny Pickett, but Campbell concluded, “I think Sam Howell is gonna be just fine as your backup. Hopefully he doesn’t get to take any snaps other than victory formation in 2025.”

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Final Thoughts: A Team on the Rise

The Two Old Bloggers episode paints a picture of a Vikings team brimming with potential but facing critical questions. McCarthy’s growth, Turner’s emergence, and Darrisaw’s recovery signal a bright future, while Oliver’s extension and Metellus’ impending deal solidify the roster. Yet, the cornerback room and backup quarterback situation linger as uncertainties. Campbell summed up the offseason vibe: “No news is good news… Likely the only news you’re gonna get is like somebody got a speeding ticket or a DUI.”

As the Vikings head toward training camp on July 20, 2025, fans can tune into Vikings 1st & SKOL for weekly updates, including The Real Forno Show and Skulling with Friends. With a Super Bowl window open, per Ryan Kelly’s bold claim, the 2025 season promises excitement. Stefano closed with a rallying cry: “SKOL Vikings!” For fans craving in-depth analysis, Two Old Bloggers is the go-to source for all things purple and gold.

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Question:

What’s your take on J.J. McCarthy’s mini-camp performance—do his interceptions worry you, or are you confident in his growth as the Vikings’ QB1 for 2025? Share your thoughts below!