8 biggest battles heading into the Vikings 2021 training camp
By Adam Carlson
![Aug 28, 2020; Eagan, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive back Nathan Meadors (44) runs through drills at practice at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports Aug 28, 2020; Eagan, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive back Nathan Meadors (44) runs through drills at practice at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fthevikingage-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fimagn-images-2F2018-2F08-2F14848727-850x560-3d062305f1d28581c6c9a1e4306912567809fd25547c2d432c0387f49c6d390a.jpg)
Kirk returner
Top competitors:
- Ameer Abdullah
- Kene Nwangwu
- K.J. Osborn
As a boring fan who loves field position battles, I would be fine if the Minnesota Vikings took the touchback every time and started their possession There is still some importance in having a competent player to catch the ball safely.
Ameer Abdullah did a solid job of that last year, but rookie Kene Nwangwu may have been drafted to take that job from him. The dynamic rookie out of Iowa State has already been mentioned as an option to return kicks but he will have to unseat the 28-year-old rusher.
The wild card in this mix is K.J. Osborn, who failed to impress as a return man in 2020 but could emerge with a special teams gig if he can prove he has improved this offseason and can beat out the competition.
With no clear favorite at the moment, the potential of Nwangwu has to have the Vikings intrigued. His role on offense will be limited this season but having him on special teams as well as a running back who is ready to step in if needed would make him incredibly valuable.
Projected winner: Kene Nwangwu