5 former Vikings players who will thrive on new teams in 2022
By Dean Jones
Tyler Conklin – TE
Big things were expected of Tyler Conklin last season when Irv Smith Jr. went down with an early injury that ruled him out for the entire campaign. This was the big opportunity that the promising tight end had been waiting for, which brought about some career numbers and a big payday in free agency for good measure.
Conklin was a reliable presence in the passing game, bringing in 61 receptions from 87 targets for 593 receiving yards and three touchdowns. This also came with some impressive blocking when tasked with the responsibility, and it was a blow to see the player take his chances elsewhere.
The New York Jets provided Conklin with financial security and the opportunity to become a true No. 1 tight end. Working with a young signal-caller like Zach Wilson should also be mutually beneficial if the BYU product makes the necessary improvements to his game in the coming months.
Providing Robert Saleh’s staff use Conklin in the right way and the player can cope with extra attention coming his way in a different environment, then this could be a great move. However, this is the Jets, so things can go from promising to bleak extremely quickly based on the recent history surrounding the franchise.
As for the Minnesota Vikings, they will be hoping Smith can finally string a consistent run of games together and reach his undoubted potential.