The Vikings defensive backs group has changed significantly, seeing position coach changes as well as the absence (at least for now) of Smith, but Metellus is excited about the room and its potential.
Among the new faces is third-round draft pick Jakobe Thomas, whom the Vikings tabbed this spring out of Miami.
Thomas, who will turn 23 on June 30, has made a positive first impression.
“You talk about a guy who’s only been here a couple weeks, he knows the system like the back of his hand already,” Metellus said. “It’s more about the little things, the ins and outs of why we do things that he has to get a grasp on, and that’s when it comes to reps. But in terms of just natural football, I.Q., things come very easy to him.
“This defense is a lot, so we’re throwing a lot at him, but he’s been handling it very well,” Metellus added.
It’s clear Thomas “loves the game,” which speaks volumes to another blue-collar player like Metellus.
“You appreciate that,” he said. “Especially a young guy, to come in and already be talking about his journey and his path and where he wants to be. He wants to put on a [Hall of Fame] Gold Jacket like we all do, and you can feel that in the way he works and goes about things.
“You can see it, too,” Metellus continued. “It’s not just talk. He’s in here late meeting with the coaches, meeting with [Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores], trying to get caught up to speed. So it’s definitely been great.”
