Vikings coach explains how one player can turn tricky role into opportunity of a lifetime
One of the most intriguing position groups to monitor throughout the Minnesota Vikings’ offseason has been the team’s new-look group at wide receiver. Adam Thielen’s departure opened the door for the Vikings to nab Jordan Addison with the 23rd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Thielen’s exit leaves a hole in production on the […]
One of the most intriguing position groups to monitor throughout the Minnesota Vikings’ offseason has been the team’s new-look group at wide receiver.
Adam Thielen’s departure opened the door for the Vikings to nab Jordan Addison with the 23rd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Thielen’s exit leaves a hole in production on the field, but also a void in the leadership department.
Now without Thielen's veteran presence in a rather young room of receivers, the Vikings will turn to K.J. Osborn to shoulder some extra responsibilities within the offense.
A fifth-round pick in the 2020 draft, Osborn has accumulated at least 650 receiving yards in back-to-back seasons. He provides a deep threat for Kirk Cousins and a fine complimentary option across from Justin Jefferson.
Osborn’s 12 touchdowns over the last two years inspired hope within the Vikings fanbase and coaching staff that he is capable of evolving into a No. 2 option out wide. Though he would fit that bill for a handful of teams around the league, he’s likely slotted in at WR3 for the 2023 season.
Osborn is in a difficult position entering his fourth season in the NFL. While he must compete with Addison for a significant role in the passing game, he must also help bring the rookie up to speed in the offense.
Vikings wide receivers coach Keenan McCardell spoke on how the addition of Addison has only increased Osborn’s competitive drive.
“I think K.J. understands the NFL,” McCardell said. “And I want my whole room to understand the NFL because every day you guys are competing every day you're being evaluated. Now that we bring in a high round draft pick, it just puts more fuel to his fire to show people who he is.”
Osborn will continue to grow as a receiver in the Vikings’ high-flying passing attack, but he is also learning how to develop his leadership skills. McCardell recalled a conversation with Osborn about his unique situation with Addison now in the building.
“I said, ‘You know what? We let Adam walk out the building. Now you have to take on the leadership part of that. Now you as a pro, even though you're competing against the number one draft pick, you as a pro has to teach him and bring him along right now.’ And he has the wherewithal and the ability to lead that way bring him along, as well as be a successful playmaker for us. So, and that's what I love about him and that's why he's gonna be an unbelievable pro from here on out.”
