In a perfect world for the Vikings, they already have another diamond in the rough on the roster.

A perfect template exists in linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. He signed as an undrafted free agent last season and quickly started to turn some heads in training camp. As he made more and more plays in practice, it became clear that Pace was going to be an impact player for defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

There are a pair of undrafted free agents this season that are on a similar path, Though it’s unlikely that anybody will make as big of a splash as Pace did as a rookie last season, edge rusher Gabe Murphy and cornerback Dwight McGlothern have emerged as standouts in training camp.

Asked about both players on Saturday afternoon at TCO Performance Center, Flores heaped praise on Murphy and McGlothern, who have steadily climbed the depth chart since signing as undrafted free agents.

it raises the question: Why have the Vikings found success with undrafted free agents as of late?

“This league is about fit and timing,” Flores said. “Just getting to the right place with the right coach with the right system.”

It appears that Murphy and McGlothern are the right fit at the right time. The next step for them is simply continuing to perform at a high level in practice.

That should put both players in a good spot with the preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders suddenly coming up in less than a week.

Pace looking confident

As for Pace, he looks so much more confident this season, and the Vikings seem to have high hopes for him after what he did as a rookie.

“He showed pretty elite football instincts and intelligence for a rookie, especially in our defense with the things Flo was trying to do,” head coach Kevin O’Connell said. “Can he pair that with the experience he does have and some of the things we’re looking to have him improve on?”

That hasn’t been an issue for Pace so far. He’s flying around in training camp making plays like he has been known to do.

Darnold improving

There have been ups and down for veteran quarterback Sam Darnold in training camp. That said, Darnold had arguably his best showing on Friday afternoon, then followed it up with another good effort on Saturday afternoon.

“I’m continuing to get better,” Darnold said. “I’ve got to continue to keep working.”

The most challenging part for Darnold has been navigating the different looks he’s getting on the other side of the ball. It’s no secret that Flores is constantly trying to create confusion with his some of the exotic schemes he dials up on defense.

“You’ve got to have a plan for everything,” Darnold said. “It”s fun to be able to compete against those guys.”

It remains to be seen if Darnold suits up at any point in the preseason. Asked if he has a preference on the matter, Darnold replied, “Whatever the coaches ask of me I’ll do.”