Teddy Bridgewater was the second of the Vikings' two first-round picks, chosen 23 spots after linebacker Anthony Barr, their first selection. But this draft likely will be remembered most for Minnesota's approach to the quarterback spot — passing on Johnny Manziel at Barr's spot before nabbing Bridgewater later. The Vikings' new QB met with the Twin Cities media on Friday. Here are some of the highlights of what he had to say:
On whether it was tough to endure criticism during the predraft process: "It wasn't tough at all. My mind-set was worry about the things you can control. ... This entire process has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I really enjoyed it."
On how he'll fit into an offense led by coordinator Norv Turner and his son, Scott, the quarterbacks coach: "I believe they're great coaches, offensive geniuses. I feel that I'll be able to come right in and display great accuracy, leadership, poise, composure."
On how he and Norv Turner interacted during his private workout: "He's just someone who loves to coach and be right there in your ear as you're taking that rep. He's a very tough coach, but at the same time he understands that you are a player. With me being a coachable guy, I was able to just accept the criticism, accept the great things that he had to say about me and just keep playing."
On his expectations for his first season with the Vikings: "I can't even tell you the last time I sat and watched, but my expectations here are to show that I can compete at a high level and just to lead this team. And eventually, if I can showcase the talents and abilities to be a starter, that's my expectation."
On what he needs to work on to improve his game: "I feel that there's always room for improvement. My mind-set is to remain a student of the game. Each day I approach it as I want to get better, whether it's little things with my footwork or my accuracy, throwing on time, decisionmaking, I'm always open for improvement."
On possibly playing cold-weather games during the Vikings' two seasons at TCF Bank Stadium: "I think it won't be a big adjustment at all. I think we'll be able to use that to our advantage here in Minnesota. It's a mental thing, and I'll just block it out and continue to play."
On not making mistakes after a final college season in which he had 31 touchdown passes and just four interceptions: "I feel that's one of the biggest things you must do playing the quarterback position is protecting the football. You can't win games if you're turning the football over, so I take great pride in being on time with the football and knowing where everyone is on the field. If I have to check the ball down, I'll do that. It's all about moving the chains and scoring touchdowns. I take tremendous pride in being someone who cuts down on turnovers and has great numbers in the touchdown category."
