7 free-agent receivers the Vikings could sign in 2022
By Luke Parrish
Jakobi Meyers (RFA)
2021 Team: New England Patriots
The Patriots have notoriously kicked around wide receivers over the years because their offense typically runs through their running backs and tight ends. Last offseason, the Patriots signed Kendrick Bourne and Nelson Agholor to help in the passing game, which has since opened up the floor for Jakobi Meyers.
Meyers became a breakout player in his third season in New England. He played in all 17 games and received 126 targets which resulted in 83 catches, 866 yards, and two touchdowns. Those two touchdowns were the only two scores of his career which would be alarming if touchdowns were not such a luck-induced stat.
Given that Meyers is a restricted free agent, the Vikings would have to jump through some minor hoops to bring him in. New England can place a draft tender or right of first refusal on Meyers, which would make a deal a bit more challenging.
Minnesota would immediately upgrade from Osborn without breaking the bank on a guy that has limited but promising production. Meyers comes with a high floor but relatively capped ceiling that is perfect from a WR3 perspective.
Using Meyers in the Osborn role while upgrading the WR2 or sticking with Adam Thielen for one more year would give the Vikings enough experienced pass catchers to stay competitive in 2022 while also having the pieces in place for the future.