7 bold predictions for the Vikings 2023 training camp
By Chris Schad
Bold Prediction No. 4
Brandon Powell will beat Jalen Reagor for the punt return job
Nwangwu isn’t the only special teamer with his job on the line. While there are no rule changes on punt returns, Reagor wasn’t spectacular after he was acquired from the Philadelphia Eagles prior to last season and has prompted a full-blown competition heading into training camp.
Reagor’s biggest threat is Brandon Powell, who signed a one-year deal with the Vikings in free agency. Powell hasn’t been spectacular as a returner, averaging 7.4 yards per return with the Rams last season, but he’s capable of the job, averaging 8.9 yards per return with the Atlanta Falcons in 2020.
In addition, Powell can add another wrinkle to the offense. At 5-foot-8, Powell won’t be an every-down workhorse on the outside, but he’s good enough for the occasional big play, catching 24 passes for 156 yards and adding 80 rushing yards on 17 carries last season.
By comparison, Reagor had just eight catches for 104 yards and a touchdown last season and a pair of mishaps that led to two interceptions during the Vikings' Week 15 win over the Indianapolis Colts. He also averaged just 6.4 yards per punt return last season, which could be the reason the Vikings decided to bring in Powell.
Although Reagor’s $2.4 million salary is fully guaranteed, he could be a cut candidate if he doesn’t show improvement during camp.