4 Vikings players facing an uphill battle at 2021 training camp

Chad Beebe – WR

Chad Beebe might be the frontrunner to secure the third wide receiving spot, but the Vikings roster now has plenty of exciting young talent who are also looking to secure the same distinction.

Outside of stud tandem Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson, the production from other wideouts was almost non-existent in 2020. This has to change moving forward, which would give Kirk Cousins another valuable outlet in the passing game aside from the two Pro Bowlers on the outside.

Beebe showed signs of life last season, bringing in 20 receptions from 30 targets for 2021 receiving yards and two scores. This was a huge confidence boost for the player, who has been a relative afterthought in Minnesota’s scheme during the early part of his career.

Things will not be easy for Beebe at camp, even though he finally has some momentum to build off.

Bisi Johnson, K.J. Osborn, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, Blake Proehl, and Whop Philyor all have some intriguing skills that could be of use. What’s important for Bebbe is that he catches the eye, shows the right progression, and continues to emerge as a dependable target that can be counted upon in key moments.

It’s a big challenge for Bebbe before competitive action begins, but one that might bring out the best in the player.