Vikings defense shines through joint practices with Cleveland Browns

Heading into their second preseason game of the year, the Minnesota Vikings defense has the wind in their sails. The offense has been the talking point all week for the team with the discussion being around injured rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

After two joint practices with the Cleveland Browns, the defense has gained momentum heading into the game between the two teams.

Dane Mizutani of The Pioneer Press reported that the Vikings’ defense was “very impressive” against the Browns. Whether it was the first or second-team units, the Vikings’ defense did very well against the Browns’ offense led by Deshaun Watson and Amari Cooper.

The secondary will remain a big question mark, but Dwight McGlothern’s play, a pick-6 on Winston, gave the defense a big boost. Another rookie in Dallas Turner was getting in on the fun by getting in the backfield and had sacked Watson at one point.

The defense will have its work cut out for it in 2024, as the pressure is on. Their journey as a unit with those expectations begins on Saturday.