Four 2020 draft prospects for the Vikings to watch in Week 9

KJ Hamler – WR (Penn State)

at Michigan State

Penn State wide receiver KJ Hamler had his breakout game last week against Michigan. He caught six passes for 108 yards and two touchdowns as the Nittany Lions took care of business.

Hamler is a 5-foot-9 receiver with pure speed. He is also an electric returner and playmaker with the ball in his hands.

Penn State is climbing the ranks of college football each and every week and Hamler is catching the eyes of fans and scouts across the country more and more, making him a name to watch closely. The Vikings seem to have found their No. 3 receiver in Bisi Johnson. Still, depth at the position is crucial and they could use an extra weapon in their offense.

Michigan State is a tough opponent on the road, especially with their stout defense. However, Indiana and Ohio State have shown that points can be had by opposing offenses. That leaves Hamler and the Penn State offense in sight of a big afternoon this week.

Hamler is explosive, shifty, and dynamic. He projects as a slot receiver at the next level that can change the game for his offense. As he continues to impress this season, he will rise up draft boards and he could wind up as a top-50 selection in 2020.

Prediction

Penn State is going to get off to a bit of a slow start, but Hamler will turn things around himself. A big punt return or a long run after the catch to set up a score will change the momentum and lead Penn State to victory. Hamler will be the spark plug and the difference-maker for this offense.