5 Vikings role players who can thrive under the new regime in 2022
By Dean Jones
Kene Nwangwu – RB
Kevin O’Connell comes from the Sean McVay coaching tree, which focuses heavily on gaining significant yards in the passing game while also relying heavily on running backs providing the security blanket in case a play is not developing as expected downfield.
The Vikings are fortunate enough to have Dalvin Cook, who remains one of the productive backs in the business with no signs of slowing down just yet. However, the impact made by Kene Nwangwu as a rookie cannot be ignored and is something those in power should also utilize more next season.
Nwangwu arrived as a fourth-round selection in 2021 and quickly emerged as an explosive dual-threat weapon, albeit in a limited role. The player also caught the eye as a kick returner, scoring two touchdowns and coming up with many other big runs for solid field position.
The possibilities are endless regarding how Nwangwu can be deployed. But the Iowa State product also needs to leave no doubt regarding his importance for a coaching staff that will be seeing him in the flesh for the first time.
If Nwangwu can produce the goods in camp and during whatever carries or targets come his way in preseason games, then expect to see the second-year-pro become more involved in 2022.