Spotlight could be on Vikings RB Jerick McKinnon vs. Bengals

MANKATO – Even without Adrian Peterson, there will be a reason to watch the Vikings backfield on Friday night in Cincinnati.

Peterson likely will continue a five-year run without a preseason handoff, which gives the floor to his backup, Jerick McKinnon — that is if McKinnon's lower back injury allows him to play in the exhibition opener.

"I've been limited [in practice] the past couple of days," McKinnon said. "And it's been frustrating."

The third-year running back was putting together a strong camp. McKinnon, 24, said he tacked on weight to his 5-9 frame, which could help him shoulder a heavier load if that's what the Vikings have in mind. Since he was drafted in 2014's third round, McKinnon has averaged 5.2 yards per touch with the bulk of his workload coming as a rookie during Peterson's 15-game hiatus while either on the exempt list or suspended.

McKinnon's role was reduced last season when Peterson returned to lead the league in carries and rushing yards.

The Vikings could find a more balanced approach between the two. Coach Mike Zimmer said he expects McKinnon to "help us a lot offensively as a changeup back in the passing game."

"Hopefully, it continues to grow that way," offensive coordinator Norv Turner said. "To me, it's a week-to-week deal. There are certain games where they're really going to struggle with a guy like [McKinnon], and there are certain games that it may not be the best fit."

"He works real hard, smart, doesn't hardly ever make mistakes," Zimmer said. "He's a threat out of the backfield, but also as a runner as well."

The Vikings broke camp Tuesday, ending their 51st summer in Mankato — and it could be one of the last. Their new headquarters in Eagan, scheduled to be team ready on 44 acres by spring 2018, will have more than enough room to hold training camp in the shadow of the Twin Cities. The final year of the contract in Mankato is 2018.

Veteran linebacker Chad Greenway said he can see the writing on the wall.

"You build a brand-new facility right there in Eagan," Greenway said. "And put up a stadium of [the size of Minnesota State Mankato's Blakeslee Stadium] with hotels around it, and you don't have to move all the pads and all the stuff — it just makes too much sense from a logistical and financial standpoint.

"It is a little sad just because of the tradition we have down here."

Johnson, the eldest of the Vikings receivers at age 27, hails from northern Kentucky and recalled watching the Bengals as the team broadcast by the local television networks.

"So that's like my home team," Johnson said. "From right across the bridge in northern Kentucky. … And Chad Ochocinco was my favorite player growing up."

Johnson likely will start Friday, sporting an Odell Beckham Jr.-style blonde Mohawk.

Cornerback Terence Newman did not travel with the team to Cincinnati, according to a team source. He was one of 10 Vikings who did not suit up for Tuesday's final camp practice. Defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd, left tackle Matt Kalil, linebacker Eric Kendricks, receiver Jarius Wright, linebacker Edmond Robinson and linebacker Brandon Watts also sat out. Tight end Rhett Ellison (knee), guard Mike Harris (illness) and quarterback Taylor Heinicke (foot) remain sidelined. Receiver Cordarrelle Patterson (shoulder) and McKinnon (back) did practice.