Vikings Training Camp 2019: Previewing the wide receivers

The Underground Riser: Chad Beebe

Throughout the year, the Vikings have seen several receivers come from unheralded status to become focal points of their offense. While you’ve already heard about Diggs and Thielen, another little-known receiver that some feel is about to make the jump is the second-year wideout Chad Beebe.

Coming into last year, Beebe was more known for being the son of former Buffalo Bills great Don Beebe. The Northern Illinois product would quickly make a name for himself last August and after narrowly missing the final cut, he would sit on the practice squad before being called up midway through the season.

Beebe’s stint with the Vikings didn’t go as planned as he only made four catches for 39 yards in three games. Part of the reasons behind his Treadwell-like numbers was a hamstring injury that knocked him out for a good part of his rookie year, but he did display solid hands and decent route running when given the opportunity.

Coming into camp, Beebe has another chance not only to make a good impression, but take the third receiver role in the offense. His skill set drew a comparison of Wes Welker from PlayerProfiler and that makes sense considering he can man the slot while also being capable of returning punts.

The Vikings probably won’t get the production that the former New England Patriot had during his career, but if Beebe can step up and have marginal production, the Minnesota staff will take it.