The Minnesota Vikings’ preseason rolls on, and with the second game now in the books, it’s time to assess the players who have improved their stock and those who might be falling behind.
As we inch closer to the regular season, these games serve as crucial opportunities for fringe players to make their case for a roster spot, and for veterans to prove they still belong.
Here’s a breakdown of who’s trending up and who’s trending down after Preseason Week 2.
Stock Up
1. Ty Chandler – Running Back
Ty Chandler’s performance in the second preseason game was nothing short of electric. The young running back showed burst, vision, and decisiveness, leading the team in rushing yards. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield only adds to his value. With Alexander Mattison expected to be the starter, Chandler has positioned himself well as the primary backup, possibly even threatening to take on a larger role if his play continues to impress.
2. Ivan Pace Jr. – Linebacker
Undrafted rookie Ivan Pace Jr. continues to turn heads with his play. After a solid performance in the first preseason game, he followed it up with another strong showing in Week 2. Pace displayed great instincts, quickness, and a knack for finding the ball carrier. His play has made it difficult for the coaching staff to overlook him, and he’s making a strong case to be a part of the final 53-man roster.
3. Jaren Hall – Quarterback
Rookie quarterback Jaren Hall showed significant improvement from Week 1 to Week 2. He looked more comfortable in the pocket, made quicker decisions, and delivered some impressive throws under pressure. While he’s not expected to challenge Kirk Cousins for the starting job, Hall is making a strong push to secure the backup role. His development could be crucial for the Vikings in the long run, especially considering the importance of depth at the quarterback position.
Stock Down
1. Kellen Mond – Quarterback
Unfortunately for Kellen Mond, his preseason struggles have continued into Week 2. Mond looked hesitant in the pocket, missed some key throws, and generally failed to make a positive impact. With the emergence of Jaren Hall, Mond’s place on the team is becoming increasingly precarious. The former third-round pick needs a standout performance in the remaining preseason games to avoid being cut.
2. Lewis Cine – Safety
Lewis Cine, a former first-round pick, has had a rough start to his second season. His play in the second preseason game was marred by missed tackles and blown coverages. Cine’s struggles are concerning, especially considering the expectations that come with being a high draft pick. He’ll need to bounce back quickly if he hopes to solidify his spot as a starting safety or even a rotational player.
3. Jalen Reagor – Wide Receiver
Jalen Reagor’s spot on the roster is looking more and more uncertain. The former first-round pick has failed to make a significant impact in the first two preseason games, and with the emergence of other young receivers, Reagor could be on the outside looking in. His lack of consistency and inability to separate from defenders have been glaring issues, and he’ll need a strong showing in the final preseason game to secure his place on the team.
Final Thoughts
The Vikings’ coaching staff will have some tough decisions to make as they inch closer to finalizing the roster. While some players have clearly made the most of their opportunities, others have left much to be desired. With one preseason game left, the pressure is on for those on the bubble. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining who makes the cut and who will be looking for a new team