How will Stefon Diggs’ time with the Vikings be remembered?
By Dean Jones
How will the Vikings fare without Diggs?
Stefon Diggs might have been trouble off the field. But there is no denying his influence and productivity during his time with the Vikings.
His consistency in producing the good in big-time situations set him apart from most other wide receivers in the NFL. Diggs was a prominent deep threat and he represented a significant threat during the Vikings’ hugely successful play-action scheme.
It is evident that Diggs’ production is going to be hard to replace. Especially when one considers the restrictions on Minnesota’s salary cap going forward.
The franchise did manage to sign Tajae Sharpe on a one-year, $825,000 deal as a short-term solution. But the prospect of him reproducing Diggs’ level of consistency is slim.
Minnesota does have 12 draft picks this year and they are expected to strengthen their receiving options at some stage. This is regarded by some as the deepest wide receiver class in recent memory and it would be prudent for the Vikings to use one of their early picks on a player that can assist them immediately.
Bisi Johnson is also expected to take a step forward after a promising rookie season. Big things are also expected of pass-catching tight end Irv Smith Jr. after a hugely encouraging first season in the NFL.
There is also plenty of responsibility on Adam Thielen’s shoulders and he must stay healthy if the Vikings are going to have a realistic chance of making the playoffs for a second consecutive year.