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Jake Golday Takes First‑Team Snaps as Vikings Test His Versatility

Coaches are rotating the second‑round rookie through linebacker and edge spots to judge where he can help Minnesota’s run defense.

Overview

  • Golday began taking first‑team reps in Vikings practice in early August and reporters noted his quick play and strong showings.
  • The 51st overall pick in the 2026 draft, Golday finished his college career with 284 tackles and had a 2025 season at Cincinnati that included 105 tackles and first‑team All‑Big 12 honors.
  • Coaches have moved him between Will and Sam linebacker spots and given him looks on the edge as part of a deliberate experiment to find multiple roles he can fill.
  • His practice rise creates direct competition with rotational player Ivan Pace Jr. and could force roster decisions if Golday’s skill set translates to game work.
  • The coming preseason games will be the key test to see if practice performance converts to on‑field snaps, playing time, and a defined role in Brian Flores’s defense.