Between Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, and Justin Jefferson, the Minnesota Vikings have one of the strongest groupings of skill players in the NFL heading into the upcoming season.
Even though Hockenson is recovering from torn ACL and MCL injuries sustained late in the 2023 season, starter quarterback Sam Darnold, as well as eventual rookie first-round selection J.J. McCarthy, has a wide range of alternatives at his disposal.
Addison might be ready for an incredible year.
The Vikings’ facility is buzzing with activity thanks to Jordan Addison’s growth, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer said on June 17. Addison’s development was particularly evident during the offseason program, since Jefferson was out for the majority of it. He returned in April with greater physical strength and the burst and body control that made him a first choice in the 2023 draft.
“Without Jefferson in the mix, it was simple to see how Addison could emerge as a true No. 1 in the future, posing a pick-your-poison dilemma for opponents attempting to stop tight end T.J. Hockenson and former USC star Jefferson simultaneously.”
The No. 23 overall selection in 2023, Addison, wrapped up his first campaign with 70 receptions, 911 yards, and 10 touchdowns. According to Stathead, he is the fourth rookie in NFL history to achieve those milestones.
In the seven games that Jefferson missed because of injury, he had 35 grabs for 437 yards and four touchdowns.
The Vikings must rectify the quarterback situation for Jordan Addison.
Darnold needs to perform at the level he has demonstrated during the offseason program for Addison and the rest of the Vikings pass-catching corps. During OTAs and the required minicamp, he has unquestionably been the best quarterback available.
However, he also has a history of succeeding in that regard before faltering when the chips are down.
The Vikings have his replacement on the roster, which makes a difference for Darnold.
McCarthy. McCarthy was chosen by the Vikings with the No. 10 pick in the draft after they traded up.
As of right now, their strategy is to keep the newbie on the sidelines with a clipboard until he can unseat the seasoned journeyman for the position. However, Darnold’s performance may have a big impact on McCarthy’s perceived readiness level by the Vikings.
There were doubts about his passing skills when he joined the league.
Some of that strain will be alleviated by the Vikings’ other weapons, Jefferson, and Addison.
