MANKATO, Minn. -- Here are five observations from the Vikings training camp:

	Michael Bennett rushed for 630 yards last season.

1. Second-year halfback Michael Bennett is looking more mature than in his frantic rookie season. Bennett admits he was too nervous last year as a rookie starter. To be successful, he knows he needs to be more patient as a runner in order to better utilize his blockers. At times this summer he's showing that and he plans to gain more than 1,000 yards rushing and maybe 500 passing.

2. This is the best the Vikings have looked at defensive end in about five or six years. Veteran Lance Johnstone has recommitted himself and sought out the advice of others in the organization to improve his play. He looks better at right end than Lorenzo Bromell, who's learning the scheme. Kenny Mixon should be a force at the left defensive end position.

3. D'Wayne Bates has been the biggest surprise of camp. Though he was signed to be a third receiver, Bates has the lead to be the backside receiver at split end. Derrick Alexander hasn't done much this camp because of a quad strain, and he's been told that he won't play if he doesn't start practicing. Bates has been working with quarterback Daunte Culpepper since April and they seem to be on the same page offensively.

4. Cornerback could be a problem for the Vikings. Corey Chavous looks solid on one side, but the Vikings need a big year from Eric Kelly on the other. The plan for the team is to put more pressure up front with the defensive linemen to make it easier for the cornerbacks. That plan better come through.

5. The Vikings desperately need to sign first-round choice Bryant McKinnie and get him prepared to start at left tackle. Everett Lindsay, a dependable backup, isn't the every down answer, so coach Mike Tice will move Pro Bowl center Matt Birk to tackle and start Cory Withrow at center if McKinnie doesn't sign by Aug. 12. Chances are, McKinnie won't sign too quickly.

John Clayton is a senior NFL writer for ESPN.com.