The Rest: Brandon Zylstra, Jeff Badet, Davion Davis, Alexander Hollins
Brandon Zylstra came in with some underground hype last season when people thought he was the next Adam Thielen coming out of Concordia College. After his first year, that doesn’t look to be the case. The 26-year old was primarily a special teamer last year and had just one catch for 23 yards. He’ll be looking to get his job back this season.
Jeff Badet is a practice squad returnee that has speed that was featured in the 40 Yards of Gold event last month. While Badet still hasn’t been paid for that event, he’ll be looking to make some money with the Vikings if he can learn how to fight through contact and get downfield. He also is a sleeper candidate for the open punt returner job.
Davion Davis has earned some buzz in recent weeks as a sleeper that could make some noise when training camp begins. Although he comes from FCS school Sam Houston State, Davis racked up 39 touchdowns during his time there and possesses body control and experience as a punt returner that could force his way onto the roster.
Alexander Hollins is a small receiver (6’1, 170 lbs.) that was able to produce at another FCS school in Eastern Illinois. Despite that Hollins was able to drop three touchdowns on Arkansas last fall and has also made an impact as a kick returner. Hollins will have to carve out a niche on special teams, but if he can add some muscle without sacrificing his explosiveness, he’s an intriguing prospect.