7 bold predictions for the Vikings 2023 training camp
By Chris Schad
Bold Prediction No. 3
Minnesota will cut Kene Nwangwu
It would be a shock if Kene Nwangwu didn’t make the Vikings roster out of training camp, but with the NFL’s new kickoff rules, the role of primary kick returners could become a thing of the past.
The NFL decided to adopt the rule used in college football since 2018, where a returner can call for a fair catch inside the 25-yard line. If a returner opts to call for a fair catch, the receiving team will get the ball at the 25-yard line. While the rule should reduce collisions and injuries on kickoffs, it also puts returners in a situation where they must show their worth outside of special teams.
A burner that posted a 4.32 second time in the 40-yard dash, Nwangwu has had the athletic ability to be an impact player but just hasn’t had the opportunity. This includes his collegiate days at Iowa State, where he set the school record in return yards but worked behind current NFL starters David Montgomery and Breece Hall.
The Vikings moved Nwangwu throughout the formation in training camp with hopes they could find a way to utilize his ability but with camp approaching, Nwangwu will need to show he can handle a spot on offense or risk losing his job to Ty Chandler or DeWayne McBride.