Dallas Turner was one of the best defensive prospects in April’s NFL Draft, he is now learning what it means to be an NFL player. Playing at Alabama in the SEC meant he went against NFL talent every Saturday. Playing established NFL players, especially some of the best at their position, can lead to some growing pains.
Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated wrote about the rookie’s growing pains coming at the hands of Christian Darrisaw. The newly extended tackle for the Vikings is one of the best players at his position, it would be worrisome if Turner were dominating right away.
Ragatz agrees that this is what is best for Turner.
“Dallas Turner has had a solid start to camp and made a nice run stop at one point today, but he’s getting an NFL education from Christian Darrisaw. The Vikings’ star left tackle stonewalled Turner multiple times in this practice, which will only help make the rookie better.”
Rather, this is a sign that the rookie isn’t afraid to compete against the best in the NFL. In the NFC North especially, Turner is going to be going against the likes of Penei Sewell, Jordan Morgan, and Darnell Wright. He needs all the reps he can in camp to be ready to make an impact in Week 1.