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As the Minnesota Vikings wrapped up their 2025 rookie minicamp at TCO Performance Center, the buzz around Eagan was palpable. With only five selections in this year’s NFL Draft, every rookie’s performance was under the microscope. While first-round pick Donovan Jackson and third-rounder Tai Felton each flashed their potential, it was sixth-round linebacker Kobe King who truly turned heads and emerged as the standout of the weekend.
Kobe King is the Unheralded Playmaker
Coming into camp, Kobe King was not the most heralded name among the Vikings’ draft class. Selected 201st overall out of Penn State, King arrived in Minnesota with a reputation as a physical, run-stopping inside linebacker, but questions lingered about his coverage ability and whether he could carve out a niche on a roster already featuring the likes of Ivan Pace Jr. and Blake Cashman. Yet, from the opening whistle, King made it clear that he intended to be more than just a depth piece.
King’s most eye-catching moment came during a team session, when he intercepted a short pass in the hook/curl zone and returned it for a pick-six—a rare feat in the controlled environment of rookie minicamp. This play wasn’t just a flash of athleticism; it was a demonstration of his football IQ, anticipation, and ability to impact the game beyond his expected role. Rob Kleifield of Vikings.com described King as “standing in a skin-tight Purple long-sleeve T, after peeling off his white jersey, with a black skull cap and silver chain around his neck,” catching his breath after the big play, but still pushing himself with extra conditioning sprints while others retreated indoors. That extra work ethic did not go unnoticed by coaches or teammates.
King’s journey to this point has been defined by resilience and a chip-on-the-shoulder mentality. At 6’1” and 236 pounds, he brings more size than some recent Vikings linebackers, notably Ivan Pace Jr., whose own underdog story has become a fan favorite in Minnesota. King’s determination to prove himself was evident in his comments after practice: “I’ve been embracing the process, trusting in my building, my training, you know, it’s a process. But it ain’t been as rocky as people would expect. It’s been a smooth process for me, really. My goal is to go out there, show my teammates and the club that they can trust me, that they can have confidence in me, and just, you know, evolve my pass-game effectiveness. I’m very effective in both aspects of the game, but, you know, there’s still areas to improve”.
His words reflect a maturity and self-awareness that coaches covet. King knows he must continue to develop in coverage, but his early splash play in the passing game suggests he’s already making strides. The Vikings’ defensive staff, led by Brian Flores, is known for creative personnel packages and hybrid roles. King’s versatility and willingness to contribute on special teams may accelerate his path to meaningful snaps.
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Standing Out Amongst the Crowd
The Vikings’ rookie minicamp was crowded, with 51 players, including undrafted free agents and tryout invitees, vying for attention. First-round pick Donovan Jackson looked every bit the part of an NFL starter, dominating in positional drills and drawing praise for his size and athleticism. Tai Felton, the speedy receiver from Virginia, also impressed with his smooth route running and reliable hands, potentially positioning himself for an early role in the offense if injuries strike the receiving corps. Yet, it was King’s combination of on-field production, work ethic, and leadership that set him apart.
King’s interception was not just a highlight-reel moment; it was a signal to the coaching staff that he can be trusted in critical situations. The Vikings’ linebacker room is competitive, especially with the departure of veteran Kamu Grugier-Hill, leaving opportunities for young players to seize roles on defense and special teams. King’s ability to make plays in coverage, coupled with his reputation as a stout run defender, gives him a legitimate chance to stick on the 53-man roster.
Of course, rookie minicamp is just the first step in a long journey. The real tests will come in OTAs, training camp, and preseason games, where King will need to prove he can translate his early success against NFL veterans. Still, his performance in minicamp has laid a strong foundation. As one Vikings analyst put it, “King has a clear path to a regular season roster spot, especially with veteran Kamu Grugier-Hill unsigned this offseason”. His extra effort after practice, willingness to embrace coaching, and immediate impact on the field have given him a leg up in the competition.
