Unlike last week’s joint practice with the Commanders, who came to Foxborough with an army of former Patriots, this week’s practices have only a few connections.

New England Patriots center Garrett Bradbury warned the team ahead of their scheduled joint practice with the Minnesota Vikings.

Whether it’s staying local and hosting the Tennessee Titans, or hopping on a plane tp practice against the Cleveland Browns, joint practices have been a constant for the Vikings ever since O’Connell took over as it allows high intensity in a controlled environment.

MINNEAPOLIS — The Patriots traveled here Tuesday, with plans to practice Wednesday and Thursday with the Vikings. 1. Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels will scheme against a familiar face in Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

The New England Patriots are travelling out west this week. The players boardedthe team jet this morning on their way to conduct two full contact jointpractices with the Minnesota Vikings ahead of Saturday’s preseason matchup.

Saturday's preseason game between the Vikings and Patriots will provide some good competition for the 53-man roster, but the real work will be Wednesday and Thursday when starters and immediate backups battle during joint practices.