6 most dangerous deep threats in Minnesota Vikings history
By Adam Patrick
4. Sammy White (1976 – 1985)
Sammy White wasted no time making his presence felt in the NFL as he ended his rookie season in 1976 with 51 catches for 906 yards (17.8 average) and 10 touchdowns.
White averaged 17 yards per reception in a season five times during his career with the Vikings and in four of his first five years with the franchise, he averaged at least 16.5 yards per catch.
His seven touchdown receptions of 45 yards or more is currently tied for the third-most in Minnesota history.
3. John Gilliam (1972 – 1975)
When a guy is able to average 18.5 yards per catch during an NFL career that lasts 11 years as John Gilliam did, it’s pretty easy to assume that they were a deep threat.
Gilliam arguably had the best seasons of his career during his time with the Vikings. During his four years with Minnesota, he hauled in 27 touchdown passes, including seven over 40 yards, and he averaged 20 yards per catch.
With the Vikings in 1972, he led the NFL with an average of 22 yards per reception, which is still one of Minnesota’s all-time single-season records (minimum 45 catches).