The Minnesota Vikings have some tough decisions to make this offseason. They have multiple needs on offense and defense, and are also in danger of losing some key contributors if they leave in free agency.
One pending free agent to keep an eye on is Jalen Nailor. As the third wide receiver on the Vikings' depth chart, he had his best year as a pro. He caught 29 passes for 444 yards and three touchdowns despite shaky quarterback play and a struggling offense during the 2025 season.
Now that his rookie contract has come to an end, the question of what is next for the 26-year-old pass catcher must be asked. Minnesota would likely love to keep him in a purple and gold uniform, but it might not be that easy for the team to achieve.
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor could be one of the biggest steals of the 2026 NFL free agency period.
Recently, FanSided's Justin Carter shared an article listing seven players who could be free agency steals this offseason. Included on that list (and featured in the post's image) is Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor.
Here is what Carter had to say about Nailor:
"Nailor's speed makes him a potential mismatch in the slot. He can excel on a team whose quarterback is capable of delivering passes over the middle of the field. Nailor isn't going to single-handedly shift an offense, but he can be a crucial piece for a team that has its outside receivers set and just needs to add someone for the short and medium game."
That analysis of Jalen Nailor is accurate. Vikings fans who have watched him play for the past four seasons know that "Speedy" Nailor is a player who can make things easier on an offense by stretching the field and making tough catches when called upon.
Although Nailor was ranked No. 114 among Pro Football Focus' 2026 NFL free agents, they are high on the former Michigan State pass catcher. saying he could seek more of a WR2 role in 2026 after grading out with a 66.3 score, thanks to a lack of drops and limited opportunities in Minnesota.
PFF projects Nailor to sign a one-year deal this offseason worth $3.5 million. If that is what he ends up signing for, that could be a huge bargain for whatever team signs him. Hopefully, it will be the Minnesota Vikings who can bring him back on a smaller contract like that.