Although this is a quiet time in the NFL for fans, players are fighting for a chance to make the roster of a team like the Minnesota Vikings. For those individuals, making the most of every opportunity is of paramount importance.
OTAs and minicamp are the start, but they need to keep that momentum going through training camp to earn a spot on a 53-man roster or the Vikings' practice squad with the hopes of being elevated in the future.
Undrafted rookie cornerback Zemaiah Vaughn and receiver/returner Silas Bolden could make the 2025 Minnesota Vikings roster.
This year, there are already a couple of undrafted players making a name for themselves and getting noticed. According to Alec Lewis of The Athletic, as shared on the New York Times website, cornerback Zemaiah Vaughn and receiver/returner Silas Bolden are two players to keep an eye on.
"Two undrafted players, specifically, staked their claims in the last month: cornerback Zemaiah Vaughn and receiver/returner Silas Bolden. Vaughn consistently positioned himself near the ball and reacted comfortably in coverage. He even mixed in Thursday with the starters.Alec Lewis - The Athletic
Bolden, meanwhile, caught most of the passes directed his way and fielded both kicks and punts. Vaughn might be competing with former undrafted corner Dwight McGlothern, and Bolden’s skills might be juxtaposed alongside Rondale Moore, who has yet to fully join in the practice mix."
Vaughn has an opportunity to make a positive impression on a team that is always hoping to get the most out of their defensive backs. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores has been able to take aging or inexperienced defenders and make them look like solid contributors in past seasons.
On the other hand, Bolden will have the chance to make an impact as a pass catcher and as a return specialist. His college receiving stats aren't very special, but his 41 kickoff returns for 1017 yards and 33 punt returns for 412 yards could add to his value in a big way.
Having a couple of young, undrafted players to keep an eye on this offseason will be fun. The Minnesota Vikings aren't a team that lacks talent on either side of the ball, but they also aren't a team that will squander an opportunity to develop a talented prospect into a regular contributor. Hopefully, both these rookies find a way to stick around with the franchise.
