The mindset of Vikings general manager Nolan Teasley is rooted in constantly searching for ways to improve.

He made that clear on Wednesday at TCO Performance Center while discussing how he goes about doing the job.

“There’s no finish line,” Teasley said. “It never stops.”

In that same breath, Teasley detailed all of the intricacies that go into making decisions, emphasizing that everybody within the organization has a role in chasing the ultimate goal of winning a Super Bowl.

That was on display most recently in the way the Vikings went about constructing their active roster and practice squad.

“I’m just grateful for everybody that was involved,” Teasley said. “It’s truly a collective and collaborative effort.”

Her are some takeaways from Teasley’s first State of the Vikings address.1. J.J. McCarthy is still a part of the plan

It shouldn’t come as as shock that the main topic of discussion centered on J.J. McCarthy and his future with the organization. Though he predictably kept his cards close to the vest, Teasley said he expects the quarterback to be on the roster for Week 1.

“His role is to continue development, (to) improve and support his teammates,” Teasley said. “He has done an excellent job of that in the time I’ve been here and from my understanding since he walked through the door.”

It’s still unclear if McCarthy will be the backup when the Vikings play host to the Green Bay Packers on Sept. 13 at U.S. Bank Stadium. He recently was cleared to be a full participant in practice after recovering from a minor ankle injury that forced him to miss the Vikings’ final exhibition game.

“He’s really talented,” Teasley said. “I’m looking forward to how he continues to develop in this system. I think the thing we need to keep in mind with J.J. is that he has the hardest job in sports. He has only started 10 games, and his story is not written.”

2. Kyler Murray has the belief of the organization

It didn’t take Kyler Murray long to showcase the unique skill set that he brings to the position. Not only does have the arm required to make all the throws, he can also use his legs to put stress on opposing defenses.

That’s something Teasley noticed about Murray firsthand throughout training camp. He heaped praise on him for his ability to throw with anticipation and fit the ball into tight windows while also highlighting his ability as a scrambler outside of the pocket.

You could hear the excitement in Teasley’s voice as he imagined what Murray could become while playing for head coach Kevin O’Connell.

“I’ve said this from the beginning,” Teasley said. “I’m really bullish on where he’s headed playing in this system.”

3. Harrison Smith would be welcomed back

There’s no update on Harrison Smith and whether the veteran safety plans to delay retirement once again. As a longtime admirer from afar who has never formally met him, Teasley has no intention of rushing Smith to make a decision.

“I’ve always had a high level of respect for the player,” Teasley said. “I’ve heard great things about the person.”

Does he want him back in some capacity?

“That’s really up to him,” Teasley said. “We’re always open to adding good players.”

As for the depth at safety if Smith doesn’t return, Teasley said he feels good about the position, specifically mentioning Josh Metellus as the leader of the group, as well as rookie Jacob Thomas as an emerging talent.

4. Caleb Banks is still coming into his own

The exhibition slate was a roller coaster for Caleb Banks. There were some highs as the defensive lineman proved capable of using his explosiveness to win at the point of attack. There were also some lows as he struggled with his pad level and consistently got driven backward.

It doesn’t seem like Teasley subscribes to some of the negative hot takes being thrown around on social media.

“That’s a talented young man whose best is ahead of him,” Teasley said. “We’re excited about the direction that he’s headed.”

Not only has Banks shown the work ethic necessary to improve, he also has as a defensive line coach Ryan Nielsen, who has a reputation being somebody who can develop young players.

5. Kyle Van Noy could be an important piece

There’s no doubt that Kyle Van Noy knows what to expect out of Brian Flores as his new defensive coordinator played a part in the Vikings targeting him as a free agent.

Asked about that pre-existing relationship, Teasley actually downplayed the connection, noting that the biggest reason the Vikings signed Van Noy was simply because he’s a good player that they believe can make an impact.

“A veteran presence at a premium position,” Teasley said. “He fits well into the system because of the way that he rushes and the way that we rush.”

Van Noy is technically a member of the practice squad right now, but it’s only a matter of time before he gets promoted to the active roster. There isn’t much proven talent at the position behind Andrew Van Ginkel and Dallas Turner on the depth chart.

“He brings experience and leadership,” Teasley said. “We’re really, really lucky to have a player of his caliber join us.”