5 Vikings players facing a make-or-break training camp in 2021
By Dean Jones
Bisi Johnson – WR
There is still a chance for the Vikings to bring in another veteran wide receiver before training camp begins. They currently possess $14.18 million in salary-cap space, according to Spotrac, which is remarkable considering the team’s predicament earlier this spring.
Regardless of who comes in or not, this is a pivotal training camp for Bisi Johnson. The former seventh-round pick made a lasting impression during his rookie campaign in 2019, only for the player to take a significant step back last time around.
This was a real disappointment. Especially considering Minnesota’s need for another target behind stud duo Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson.
Johnson was a relative afterthought in the Vikings’ passing attack with just 19 targets last season. A far cry from the 45 that came his way during Year 1 of his professional career.
Whop Philyor, K.J. Osborn, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, and Blake Proehl are now on the lookout for a spot on the rotation, with the presence of Chad Beebe on the roster something else that shouldn’t be ignored.
This leaves Johnson with a big challenge to remain in the team’s plans at camp. The gauntlet has been laid down in no uncertain terms and how he responds will ultimately determine his future in Minnesota.