While training camp is still more than two weeks away, the rookies continue to have opportunity to impress their position coaches with a voluntary minicamp. A few of the Vikings' draft picks have a chance to start after getting familiar with the system.

For many teams, a rookie and free agent minicamp is little more than trying to decide if the players taken will be role players, practice squaders or training camp casualties. But, as the Vikings prepare for a rookie minicamp this week, there are at least a two or three players who are looking to win starting jobs and they could be solidified this week by impressing the coaching staff.

First-round pick Michael Bennett is an early frontrunner to win the starting job at running back, but the second and third picks of the Vikings could see the most encouragement this week. Willie Howard has shown the versatility to play both tackle and end positions on the defensive line and cornerback Eric Kelly has a decent shot of becoming a starter in the secondary.

The Vikings have indicated there may be major shakeups on the defensive side of the ball and if Howard and Kelly can make an impression they will push the current starters at both of their positions. Even though rumors persist about the Vikings being hot after Dale Carter when he is released by Denver June 1, Kelly could find himself in a battle with Robert Tate for a starting spot at one of the corner spots.

While rookie camps may be a first-look opportunity for many teams, the Vikings are going to take their rookie camp this week very seriously and the results could have a ripple effect on the rest of the team.

MONDAY NOTE
* New team, same story for Cortez Kennedy. VU reported that Miami was very interested in Kennedy, but, after discussing a contract with him, the Dolphins find themselves in the same spot as the Vikings — able to offer only $500,000. Meanwhile, Kennedy has told the Dolphins his price tag is $2 million and he doesn’t appear willing to budge on it. If that’s the case, the Vikings may remain in the running to get him, since it has become apparent that nobody is going to offer him the money he’s asking for now.