After learning that he was being suspended for three games without pay for violating the NFL’s policy and program on substances of abuse, receiver Jordan Addison talked to reporters on Wednesday afternoon at TCO Performance Center and said he doesn’t plan to appeal.
“I’m going to let it go as it is,” Addison said. “Just put it behind me and keep coming out here with my teammates.”
This has been a long time coming for Addison following his July 2024 arrest in Los Angeles on suspicion of driving under the influence. He pleaded no contest to a lesser charge last month before training camp. He has been waiting to learn his punishment from the NFL ever since.
“I was ready for whatever the league had to give to me,” Addison said. “I’m going to work through it, and whenever I’m back I’m going to ball out.”
The length of the suspension means Addison will not be eligible to play for the Vikings until Week 4 against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin, Ireland. He can still participate in training camp and play in the exhibition season.
What has he learned about himself throughout the process?
“I learned a lot,” Addison said. “Now I’m ready to focus on ball.”
Here are more takeaways from Day 1 of training camp:
How is McCarthy?
There was a lot to like from McCarthy in practice as he looked confident while leading the offense. It’s pretty clear that he’s getting more comfortable with everything head coach Kevin O’Connell is asking him to do on a daily basis.
There were a number of very good throws from McCarthy, including a rocket to tight end T.J. Hockenson in the red zone, and a layered ball to Addison along the sideline. The fact that McCarthy has shown marked improvement with his touch is a good sign.
It wasn’t all good for McCarthy, however, as he appeared to get sped up with pressure in his face during 11-on-11 drills, which resulted in him throwing an ill advised pass that was intercepted by linebacker Blake Cashman.
Who stood out?
Though it’s hard to gauge how effective the ground game is when tackling isn’t allowed, there have been times throughout training camp when the Vikings have looked pretty dynamic running the ball.
There were some noticeably effective runs from running backs Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason during 11-on-11 drills. There was also a long run by speedy running back Ty Chandler on which he showed some burst to get to the outside.
It might be time to star talking about reserve running back Zaiver Scott, too, as he has been impressive throughout training camp and could push for a spot on the roster.
Quote of the day
“Those are my brothers. No matter who it is I’m the first guy in the fight. No matter what. They know that. I know they would do the same thing for me. Just being a former hockey player — I used to be the enforcer out there believe it or not — I love that stuff.”
— McCarthy, on coming to the defense of Aaron Jones earlier in camp
Injury report
Edge rusher Gabe Murphy was able to finish practice after looking like he had suffered a serious injury in special teams drills. He crumbled to the ground after the play and stayed down for a few minutes while being tended to by trainers.
Not long after, however, Murphy popped up, dusted himself off, and returned to practice. He then proceeded to make his presence felt during 11-on-11 drills. That was good news for the Vikings because Murphy has been a standout in camp.
What’s next?
Another practice on Thursday before scheduled rest Friday. The preseason opener against the Houston Texans on Saturday afternoon at U.S. Bank Stadium is slowly starting to come into focus.
Related Articles
Vikings receiver Jordan Addison suspended for three games by NFL
J.J. McCarthy is the Vikings’ starting QB. What’s the plan behind him?
Takeaways from Day 10 of Vikings training camp
Who’s in? Who’s out? Our first 53-man roster projection for the Vikings
Takeaways from Day 9 of Vikings training camp
Leave a Reply