The P/PTSD Perspective: Vikings Runner Concern, Roster Moves, and Bad News for J.J. McCarthy

PurplePTSD works in partnership with Vikings Territory, similarly doing their utmost to offer top-notch coverage of the Minnesota Vikings. As a result, we’re promoting five of their top articles of the past month in “The P/PTSD Perspective.” Take a peek at some of their best stuff.

The P/PTSD Perspective: August 8th, 2026

1) Demond Claiborne Concern Raises After Day 1 of Vikings Training Camp: Few are as fast. In fact, Demond Claiborne is so speedy that Aaron Jones likened the rookie to Detroit’s Jahmyr Gibbs. Recent updates have been a bit more concerning, though, with drops being the main culprit.

2) Vikings Announce Roster Moves After Day 1 of Training Camp: A roster is an evolving thing. GM Nolan Teasley hasn’t done too much but has sent some guys packing while bringing new talent to town. Many are wondering if there will be an eyebrow-raising deal before too long.

3) J.J. McCarthy’s Day 1 Reviews are In, and They Aren’t Good: Give the kid time. His career hasn’t been flawless. Another reality is that he has faced a pile of issues, injury foremost among them. At the very least, let the Vikings get to the preseason to start making firmer judgments for who is performing better.

4) Baker Mayfield Has Entered the Vikings Rumor Mill: To my eye, Mr. Mayfield does well when he’s underestimated. He responds well to having a chip on his shoulder. Can he continue being a great passer when he’s entrenched and a well-paid QB1?

5) Vikings 2026 Draft Class is Giving Reason for Excitement: At this stage, seeing a draft class shine early on would feel like finding an oasis in the desert. Minnesota has been parched. Does the cluster of young fellas consisting of Caleb Banks, Jake Golday, and several others make a difference from Week 1 onward?

Enjoy the extra reading, Vikings fans.

Senior Editor for Vikings Territory & PurplePTSD . Twitter & Bluesky: @VikingsGazette. Email: k.joudry[at]vikingsterritory[dot]com. Canadian. Jude 1:24-25.