MANKATO -- Jasper Brinkley got thrust into a starting role at middle linebacker as a rookie last season after E.J. Henderson suffered a broken leg in December.

Brinkley is a physical hitter, but he looked far more comfortable defending the run than in pass coverage. Brinkley said he spent the offseason studying himself on tape -- particularly in passing situations -- and said he feels a lot more confident in pass coverage now.

"I feel like all the chips have fell in place," he said. "I'm still trying to build off what I started last year and just being more comfortable with this scheme and being able to go out and play fast now that I have everything down."

Brinkley's role is uncertain with Henderson's recovery progressing faster than anyone expected. Initial reports were that Henderson would be sidelined a year, if not longer, but he hopes to play Saturday in the preseason opener.

Brinkley said he's prepared for any scenario.

"I really don't get caught up in what's going to happen here or there," he said. "I just go out on the field and leave the decisions with the coaches. He's a great guy and the heart and soul of the defense. It's great to have him back. But whatever my role is, hey I'm ready to take on that role." Brinkley said the way he handled a difficult situation as a rookie gave him confidence heading into the offseason and now his second season. "It definitely gave me that feeling that, hey I can play this game and I'm able to seize the moment when I get the opportunity," he said. The Vikings have two practices today, the first one starting at 9 a.m. As always, Judd (www.twitter.com/juddzulgad) and I (www.twitter.com/chipscoggins) will be tweeting from the field.