The Minnesota Vikings are keeping a close watch on their highest-paid guard, Will Fries, as head coach Kevin O’Connell shared an update on the player’s injury status this week. The offseason has been a time of critical development for the Vikings, especially as they bolster their protection for second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
This offseason, the Vikings signed Fries to a remarkable five-year, $87.72 million deal. Despite this hefty investment, fans are left wondering when they can expect to see Fries on the field again, given his ongoing recovery from a tibia injury he sustained during his time with the Indianapolis Colts last season.
Head Coach Kevin O’Connell updates on Will Fries’ recovery
“Yeah, he’s been — it’s almost hard to believe with how strong he is, some of the things you’re hearing about from what he’s doing in the weight room — but we’re being really smart with the injury that it was,” O’Connell stated. His remarks reflect a cautious yet optimistic approach, indicating that while Fries is making progress, full recovery remains the top priority.
Fries, who stands at 6-foot-5, has garnered a notable reputation over his four-year career, with 31 starts to his name. However, this season poses a unique challenge for both him and the team, considering that McCarthy has yet to play a regular season game while recovering from a meniscus surgery he underwent last year. As the clock ticks down to training camp, the Vikings’ reliance on experienced blockers like Fries has never been more pronounced.
Will Fries: The key to the Vikings’ offensive line?
O’Connell has reassured fans about Fries not missing concrete reps during organized team activities. He explained that this period is designed more for learning than for physical competition, given that rules prevent defensive players from engaging with their teammates on the offensive side. “This is the learning, the teaching phase. So much growth and development can happen during this time when there’s really no negative outcomes,” O’Connell said, emphasizing the importance of this developmental phase.
While the absence of full-field reps can be concerning, Fries does have a significant ally in center Ryan Kelly, who he played alongside for four years in Indianapolis. The camaraderie and familiarity should aid in Fries’ adjustment and eventual return to the game. In a recent interview, Fries acknowledged the benefits of playing alongside Kelly, stating, “He’s incredibly intelligent at making ID calls and having a feel for pressures and games, things like that. That’s a lot of stuff that’s rubbed off on me.” This mutual understanding between the players could be crucial as they aim to enhance their synergy on the field.
As training camp approaches, the spotlight is steadily widening on Will Fries. Will he be able to return in time to solidify the Vikings’ offensive line? Only time will tell. The fans are undoubtedly waiting with bated breath for updates as the Vikings gear up for what could be a pivotal season ahead.