5 potential training camp cuts the Vikings could target in 2021
By Dean Jones
Omar Bayless – WR (Carolina Panthers)
Considering Omar Bayless was one of college football’s most productive wide receivers in 2019, it was a big surprise to see the player go undrafted. He was quickly picked up by the Carolina Panthers and a starring display at training camp last summer saw him emerge as a lock to make their 53-man roster against the odds.
However, bad fortune followed at a critical time.
Bayless suffered a serious knee injury during the final stages of camp that saw his dreams crushed. He was placed on the reserve/injured list and missed the entire season.
The Panthers thought a lot of Bayless and are giving him another shot to prove his worth this time around. There is a steep task awaiting him at camp, with Carolina signing David Moore in free agency and also acquiring Terrace Marshall Jr. and Shi Smith from the college ranks.
This could leave Bayless on the outside looking in if he cannot reach the level demonstrated last year. If the Panthers eventually cut their losses, this is an intriguing wildcard the Vikings could benefit from gambling on.
They are still looking for a true third wide receiving option behind Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson. If the coaching staff doesn’t like what it sees from their current options in the coming weeks, then a player like Bayless becomes a more realistic option with sneaky upside.