The NFL has proposed playing just one preseason game in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The league originally proposed just two preseason games, down from the four that teams normally play.
I wrote about how two preseason games could be a challenge for the Vikings, a team that just selected 15 players in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Obviously, that’s enhanced when you cut that number in half.
With less in-person activities in the offseason due to the pandemic plus just one preseason games, that presents a huge challenge to a team like the Vikings.
Out of teams who consider themselves contenders, the Vikings probably went through more overhaul than any other team this offseason. Replacing players like Stefon Diggs, Trae Waynes and Xavier Rhodes will be rookies Justin Jefferson, Jeff Gladney and Cam Dantzler.
Being a rookie is hard. Being a rookie without any time around your new team and teammates is nearly impossible.
Mike Zimmer and his coaching staff will have to take advantage of the limited time he has with his team before the season starts if he wants the young players to contribute in a positive way early in the season.