EDEN PRAIRIE — Former Minnesota State tight end Jeff Fielder had been told over the last two years that he had a chance to play in the National Football League someday.
Former offensive coordinator Dan Ragsdale saw potential in the 6-foot-5, 260-pound Fielder, who showed good pass-catching skills and athleticism in the pass-dominated Mavericks offense.
On Friday, Fielder was among the 50 or so rookies and select veterans to take part in a tryout camp at the Minnesota Vikings’ headquarters. He was feeling fortunate to get an opportunity to follow his dream as an undrafted free agent.
“It’s been a lot of fun, I’ve met some cool guys,” Fielder said. “The staff has been very welcoming, it doesn’t matter if you’re a draft choice or a free agent. I’m very blessed.”
Fielder made 38 catches for 426 yards and four touchdowns last season at Minnesota State. As a junior, he caught only one pass, but he returned a blocked field goal for the winning touchdown in the final seconds against South Dakota.
The Salina, Okla., native played two seasons at Bakersfield College before coming to Minnesota State.
Fielder, wearing No. 47, said the Vikings offered the only opportunity for a tryout, working him with two other tight ends to test his pass-catching and blocking skills in an offense that has no similarities to what he did at Minnesota State.
“I just have to finish my assignments,” he said. “I need to do everything I can control, catch balls and block well.”
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