The scene playing out in front of him takes Washington back.
The former wide receiver, who played for the Vikings from 1967-72, hung up his cleats long before the practice facility was constructed in Eden Prairie, but he enjoys visiting and reminiscing about his days on the field.
He’s stayed in Minnesota, living a short drive away in Plymouth, and enjoys keeping tabs on the purple and gold. Washington believes there’s something unique about the 2016 Vikings.
“It’s a very special team,” Washington says.
And he would know special when he sees it. Washington was a two-time Prow Bowler, playing under legendary Coach Bud Grant, snagging passes from Joe Kapp and Fran Tarkenton and sharing a locker room with one of the stingiest defenses in league history.