5 current Vikings players primed for a larger role in 2023

Jalen Nailor – WR

Adam Thielen is likely out, with K.J. Osborn taking on a bigger role next to Justin Jefferson next season. The Vikings will also probably do their best to land another wide receiver at some point in the offseason to give Kirk Cousins more weapons to work with.

One player that can be a vertical threat is Jalen Nailor, a second-year wide receiver that made the most of his opportunities as a rookie. He caught nine passes for 179 yards and a touchdown in garbage time but showed a glimpse of what he can provide.

Minnesota needs a vertical threat that can create space for Jefferson underneath and allow T.J. Hockenson to operate over the middle of the defense. Jalen Nailor’s ability to win down the field and stretch out defenses is certainly valuable.

Nailor played just 57 snaps last season but was perhaps the most productive player on the field when he was given a chance. It would be wonderful to see him given a chance to prove himself on a consistent basis next season and relieve some of the pressure in the passing game.