Between the surprising Thielen and the disappointing Treadwell, 2016 was an unpredictable year for Minnesota Vikings’ receivers. Who will lead the helm in 2017?
A year ago, the Minnesota Vikings’ receiving corps-hype centered around then rookie Laquon Treadwell. Many thought he would be the best rookie receiver in 2016. Clearly, that was not the case. After only one catch in 2016, can he bounce back in 2017?
Despite spending some time injured, Stefon Diggs had a solid 2017 campaign, especially considering he had to build chemistry with new quarterback Sam Bradford. Thielen was a nice surprise in Minnesota and emerged as a solid number two wide receiver. We can’t forget Kyle Rudolph, who quietly became Bradford’s favorite target real quick, and finished third among NFL tight ends in catches.
The receiving corps had trouble shining, again, due to the offensive line woes. The receivers were unable to get open downfield because that would take too long and Sam Bradford would end up on his back. With a little more time in the pocket, expect Bradford to be able to utilize his talented receiving corps.
Hoping that the offensive line can show improvement, the receiving corps should shine much brighter in 2017. Here are my statistical predictions for the Minnesota receiving corps in 2017.
Stefon Diggs, WR
Diggs is a possible breakout candidate for Minnesota. He could also become the first 1,000 yard receiver for the Vikings in what seems like a million years. While there’s no doubting his talent and abilities, he’s hoping Sam Bradford has enough time to complete some downfield passes to help pad the stats.
Receptions: 108
Receiving Yards: 1,096
Touchdowns: 5
Kyle Rudolph, TE
Rudolph quickly became Bradford’s favorite target last season. Expect a lot of the same this year. His big frame and solid hands allow Bradford to have a nice check-down option at tight end. Expect him to build off a career best season in 2016.
Receptions: 81
Receiving Yards: 754
Touchdowns: 7
Adam Thielen, WR
The Minnesota native helped his fan favoritism with a breakout 2016 campaign. Him and Sam Bradford connected quickly and earned Thielen the WR2 position for Minnesota. Expect him to maintain that spot and continue to be Bradford’s short yardage go-to guy.
Receptions: 61
Receiving Yards: 695
Touchdowns: 4
Dalvin Cook/Latavius Murray/Jerick McKinnon, RBs
A year ago, Minnesota was the ultimate check-down team. They had to be, with that abysmal offensive line. This year, they will still look for great production in the receiving game from their backfield. Expect more screen passes from the Vikings, as well as quite a few check-downs when the offensive line gets pushed back.
Receptions: 68
Receiving Yards: 485
Touchdowns: 2
Laquon Treadwell, WR
I may be one of the few, but I expect to see a big upswing in the usage of Treadwell. I also expect him to take full advantage of that. He was so talented and hard to stop at Ole Miss, and it may have taken a while to translate that to the NFL. But I believe this year will be his year to show that he’s NFL ready.
Receptions: 53
Receiving Yards: 582
Touchdowns: 3
Michael Floyd, WR
The Minnesota newcomer has found himself in and out of trouble with the league, but he’s always been talented. Despite a four-game suspension to start the 2017 campaign, I expect him to have a solid impact on the offense this year.
Receptions: 27
Receiving Yards: 303
Touchdowns: 2
Next: Vikings Stats Leaders - Rushing
The new-look offensive line should give Bradford at least a little more time to throw. This will benefit the receiving corps in 2017. With Bradford’s strong arm and accurate throwing, Vikings receivers should be given a lot of chances to succeed this year.