Vikings select WR K.J. Osborn in fifth round of 2020 NFL Draft

With the Minnesota Vikings looking to revamp their receiver room, they took a flier on a deep threat from Miami in the fifth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

The Minnesota Vikings went back to the receiver position in the fifth round of the NFL Draft on Saturday, selecting Miami wide receiver K.J. Osborn with the 176th overall pick.

Osborn spent the first four seasons of his collegiate career at the University of Buffalo, where he collected 1,490 yards and 12 touchdowns. After a junior season where he made 53 receptions for 892 yards and seven touchdowns, he opted to transfer to Miami (FL).

Osborn didn’t put up big numbers with the Hurricanes and his yards per reception went down from 16.8 in his final year at Buffalo to 10.9 in Miami. He also returned kicks throughout his career, but he didn’t fare too well averaging 20.1 yards per kickoff return. However, he did average 15.9 yards per punt return last year as well.

Despite statistical shortcomings, Osborn has some promising traits as a 5-foot-11, 203-pound receiver with 4.48 speed. On an offense that establishes the run and takes advantage with shots downfield in the passing game, Osborn’s ability to get deep and track the ball should be a key asset for the Vikings.

Osborn is the newest member of the Vikings receiving room, which added Justin Jefferson with the 22nd overall pick on Thursday night. Minnesota also has Adam Thielen, Olabisi Johnson, Tajae Sharpe, and Chad Beebe on the roster.

With several more picks remaining before the end of the afternoon on Saturday, it’s possible that the Vikings could dip into the strong receiver class one more time in this draft.