5 Minnesota Vikings players with something to prove in 2020

Adam Thielen – WR

It might be a surprise to see Adam Thielen on this list as he’s certainly proven his worth over his career by hauling in 323 passes for 4,315 yards and 25 touchdowns.

Thielen is easily one of the best route-runners in the NFL and has some of the stickiest mitts in the league, often hauling in balls that appear to be uncatchable. However, one big thing will be different this season and that will be the fact that he won’t have Stefon Diggs by his side.

Diggs has been the Goose to Thielen’s Maverick during his entire pro career. Playing next to such a talented wideout, definitely had a positive impact on Thielen’s numbers.

With Diggs lining up opposite him, opposing defenses couldn’t afford to double team Thielen, often leaving him in single coverage. Diggs is now with the Buffalo Bills and the Vikings don’t have a proven threat lining up as their No. 2 pass catcher for 2020.

Thielen could see plenty of double-coverage this season and he will have to work extra hard to create separation. He’ll need to prove he’s truly a No.1 receiver in the NFL and one who doesn’t need a stud lining up next to him to be productive in the league.

Thielen will be under the microscope this year. Opposing defenses will try to take him out of the gameplan and make the unproven weapons in Minnesota’s receiving corps beat them instead.