MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – Preseason football is about two things: Getting the veterans in shape for when the games count, and giving rookies a chance to make an NFL roster and realize their pro football dream.

Cedric McKinley is on the later end of that spectrum. He's a virtually unknown player trying to make the Minnesota Vikings 53-man roster on the defensive side of the ball. If his name sounds familiar, it's because he played at the University of Minnesota. He's now getting his second tryout with the Vikings, and he's trying to make an impression.

McKinley made his football debut in Minnesota as a member of the Gophers.

"I just learned how to basically do my job. Just be violent on blocks, find the ball and get to the ball," McKinley said.

Welcome to the big leagues. He got a look last year but didn't stick. He's getting another shot this year, and it might be his last to make an NFL impression.

"I'm just very excited to get a second opportunity to be with this team. It just feels great," McKinley said.

For any young player, NFL training camp is huge. There's little room for error and little opportunity to make a splash, so you have to be ready when it's your turn.

"You know what, you just have to trust what got you there," said defensive end Jared Allen. "You're obviously here for a reason and you've got your skills. The best thing you can do is really get into your playbook and make sure you know what's going on out there. That way physically you can play at that speed."

So big Cedric hopes he has what it takes to get a nod, a shot at a little time in September. At the very least, he's understanding that this is a make or break point in his young career.

"Just focusing on the details and the little things that can make me better," McKinley said. "The veterans help me out and show me all the things I need to know, and just keep working hard."