5 lively outsiders for the Minnesota Vikings first-round pick in 2023

Jordan Addison – WR (USC)

Adding another talented wide receiver from the college scene might be an avenue pursued by the Minnesota Vikings at some stage. They aren’t blessed with much draft capital, but ruling it out would be foolish depending on how the board plays out.

Justin Jefferson is now arguably the league’s best at the position after a sensational 2022 campaign. There’s a lot to like about K.J. Osborn’s emergence into a core rotational piece, but Adam Thielen’s status is less certain heading into an important offseason.

Thielen might be a salary-cap casualty due to Minnesota’s current financial plight. While that would be disappointing, the NFL is a business at the end of the day.

If the Vikings decide to move forward without Thielen, another pass-catching presence is essential. Although controversial, if Jordan Addison is still available, the Vikings could have a big decision to make.

Addison is an electrifying playmaker that has it all. His route running is crisp, which is matched by borderline elite explosiveness and unreal ability to catch the football at its highest point.

Pairing Addison with Jefferson and Osborn gives Minnesota a phenomenal trio to build around for future success. However, it does appear unlikely considering the need for defensive help.