Minnesota Vikings: Fringe Players to Watch Ahead of Training Camp
As the Minnesota Vikings prepare for the 2025 NFL season, the countdown to training camp is nearing its conclusion. With less than a week to go before players report, the team is starting to focus on the crucial decisions that will shape the final 53-man roster. While the top of the roster is mostly set, it’s the players fighting for those final spots—the fringe contributors—that often provide the most intrigue during camp.
In particular, five players are entering training camp on the bubble, with their futures in the NFL potentially hanging in the balance. Each of them offers an interesting case, and their performances during the next several weeks could determine whether they make the team or find themselves on the practice squad—or even released.
Lucky Jackson (Wide Receiver)
Lucky Jackson, a name that has surfaced frequently in Vikings circles, finds himself in a critical position. Originally brought in during the 2023 offseason after a strong showing in the XFL (now the UFL), Jackson joined the team in between rookie minicamp and mandatory team activities. Although he has yet to make a significant impact on the field during regular-season games, his presence on the practice squad has been valuable.
Jackson has been elevated to the active roster multiple times, but his true role has remained more developmental than anything else. Now, he’s entering what could be described as a “Trishton Jackson” situation—named after another fringe wideout from previous years who hovered around the edge of the final roster. Many fans and insiders believe Lucky Jackson has the potential to stick, but he’ll need a standout training camp to earn that elusive roster spot.
The Vikings’ wide receiver room is competitive, especially with high-profile starters and a mix of promising young talent. Jackson’s route-running, versatility, and ability to contribute on special teams will be key factors in determining whether he stays or goes.
Brian Asamoah (Inside Linebacker)
Linebacker Brian Asamoah’s status on the roster is one of the more surprising question marks heading into training camp. A third-round selection from the 2022 NFL Draft, Asamoah was once viewed as a potential future star for the Vikings defense. His athleticism and ability to make splash plays were on full display during his rookie campaign, highlighted by a pivotal forced fumble in a 2022 Christmas Eve matchup against the New York Giants.
However, Asamoah’s momentum stalled with the arrival of defensive coordinator Brian Flores in 2023. Despite initial expectations that he would flourish in the new defensive scheme, Asamoah found himself relegated primarily to special teams duties. His limited impact on defense has raised concerns, particularly with the Vikings having retained just three members of their 2022 draft class.
The drafting of Kobe King in the sixth round this year has only added more pressure. Asamoah enters training camp needing to prove that he still belongs—not just as a special teams player, but as someone who can contribute meaningfully on defense.
Jay Ward (Safety/Slot Corner)
Jay Ward, a versatile defensive back entering his third NFL season, is another player at a crossroads. Drafted in 2023, Ward found himself in an awkward position last year when the team experienced unexpected injuries at cornerback. In response, the Vikings tried moving Ward into the slot corner role during the early part of training camp—a transition that did not go particularly well.
Despite the failed experiment, Ward maintained a spot on the roster, primarily serving as a depth safety and special teams contributor. The coaching staff still sees potential in him, and his place on the roster is somewhat insulated by the team’s current depth chart—there are only five safeties on the squad.
Ward’s job isn’t guaranteed, but it’s secure enough barring a complete collapse during camp. Still, if he wants to progress beyond special teams and rotational duties, he’ll need to show significant development in coverage and communication.
Levi Drake Rodriguez (Defensive Tackle)
Levi Drake Rodriguez has become something of a fan favorite among Vikings faithful. Drafted in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Rodriguez gained attention not only for his play but also for his personality and drive. Dubbed “Prospect X” by NFL journalist Kalyn Kahler—a designation given to under-the-radar players with high upside—Rodriguez has drawn attention for his relentless motor and positive energy.
Rodriguez was asked by the Vikings to bulk up during the offseason, a move that suggests a potential shift toward the nose tackle position. This change could benefit his skill set, as his high-energy style and physicality suit the demands of playing in the middle of the defensive line.
However, the defensive tackle room is one of the deepest and most competitive groups on the Vikings’ roster. With established veterans and promising young players already fighting for snaps, Rodriguez faces a significant uphill battle to make the team. Training camp and preseason games will be critical for him to prove he can hang at the professional level.
Jeshaun Jones (Wide Receiver)
Wide receiver Jeshaun Jones is another intriguing figure heading into training camp. A high-priority undrafted free agent in 2024, Jones signed with the Vikings as one of the most sought-after UDFAs in the league. His story is particularly compelling—Jones suffered back-to-back ACL injuries earlier in his college career, but he has since rebounded and is now four years removed from those setbacks.
During the 2024 season, Jones spent time on the Vikings’ practice squad and has reportedly been a standout during offseason training. His performance has caught the eye of coaches, including head coach Kevin O’Connell, who sees value in his skill set. Jones possesses the versatility to contribute in multiple ways, whether as a slot receiver, gadget player, or return specialist.
Given the depth at the wide receiver position, Jones will need to distinguish himself not just as a pass-catcher, but as a valuable chess piece on special teams and trick plays. His fight for a roster spot will be one of the most compelling storylines to follow this preseason.
Bigger Picture: The Battle for the Bottom of the Roster
The Vikings, like every NFL team, face the difficult task of trimming their roster down to 53 players by the end of training camp. While the top of the depth chart usually holds few surprises, the last 10 to 15 spots are often up for grabs. The players mentioned above—Jackson, Asamoah, Ward, Rodriguez, and Jones—are right in that mix.
Training camp provides an invaluable opportunity for these fringe players to showcase their skills, earn trust from the coaching staff, and prove that they belong on an NFL roster. Special teams contributions often serve as a tiebreaker in these battles, as coaches look for players who can contribute in all phases of the game.
Each of these five individuals brings something unique to the table, and all of them have a path to the roster—albeit a narrow one. For some, like Ward, the numbers game works in their favor. For others, like Rodriguez or Jones, it’s going to take standout performances in practice and preseason games to secure a spot.
Looking Ahead
As the Vikings open training camp, all eyes will be on these fringe players who are fighting not just for a spot on the team, but for the continuation of their professional football dreams. These are the players who bring energy and urgency to camp, knowing that every rep counts and every moment matters.
Fans and analysts alike should keep a close watch on these battles, as the outcomes will not only shape the Vikings’ 2025 roster but also offer insight into how the organization evaluates talent and prioritizes development. With injuries, emerging stars, and unexpected shifts always a factor, a name on the fringe today could be a key contributor tomorrow.
Whether it’s Lucky Jackson finally breaking through, Brian Asamoah revitalizing his career, or Levi Drake Rodriguez becoming the next late-round gem, these stories remind us that NFL training camp is as much about hope and opportunity as it is about preparation.
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