With training camp in full swing, teams are busy trying to lock down their preparation for the 2018 NFL season. However, the Minnesota Vikings were missing two key players from practice on Wednesday.

It did not take long for folks to notice the absence of wide receiver Stefon Diggs and cornerback Xavier Rhodes. According to Andrew Krammer of the Star Tribune, they were dismissed from practice by head coach Mike Zimmer:

“They did not make me happy,” Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said.

Zimmer's comments give little indication as to his reasoning for their dismissal. However, it was apparently the result of a heated exchange between Diggs and Rhodes.

Both players had been performing well at practice which, of course, led to some competitive trash talk. It appears that things may have gone a bit too far for Zimmer's liking.

Big plays from Diggs and Rhodes highlighted an afternoon practice that included plenty of heated chatter on both sides of the ball. Rhodes stepped in front of a Cousins pass, intercepting a throw intended for Adam Thielen. Diggs, who’s beaten Rhodes a few times during camp, caught a couple passes over the middle that had the two players chirping at one another. Then, after Diggs caught a long touchdown on Rhodes and threw the ball into the stands, Rhodes refused to come off the field, staying in at corner even to work with the third-team defense in an effort to turn things around.

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It is hardly uncommon for players to start talking trash, especially during the more competitive portions of training camp. The fact that it was Diggs and Rhodes is the icing on the cake considering they are two of the more vocal players on the team. Of course, coaches encourage their players to get after each other. However, it seems Zimmer is looking to make sure things do not get out of hand.

Both players were a vital part of Minnesota's success last season. Diggs and wide receiver Adam Thielen became one of the most talented tandems in the league. Meanwhile, Rhodes has become a premier lockdown corner for the Vikings. That said, Zimmer was likely hoping to put an end to the bickering before any bad blood started to develop.