UPDATE: $2 Million Favorite Predicted as Vikings’ Top Breakout Player
The Minnesota Vikings seem to be looking for a starting wide receiver, but it’s likely that the ideal candidate is already on their roster.
ESPN’s Kevin Seifert has forecasted that Brandon Powell will be the team’s biggest surprise this season, emerging as the permanent slot receiver after a standout 2023.
Seifert noted on Wednesday, May 22, that the Vikings have predominantly used 11 personnel under coach O’Connell, which typically includes three receivers. Unless O’Connell changes his approach in his third season, the team needs a third receiver to join Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Powell excelled in this role last season when Jefferson was sidelined with a hamstring injury and has a strong chance to secure a permanent position in 2024.
Last year, Powell recorded 29 catches for 324 yards and one touchdown, as per Pro Football Reference. He also led the league with 37 punt returns, amassing 289 yards and averaging 7.8 yards per return.
With K.J. Osborn moving to the New England Patriots in free agency, Powell stepping up as the third starting receiver could provide the Vikings with significant value, especially considering he’s on a one-year contract worth just $2 million.
Vikings Could Look to Free Agency, Hunter Renfrow to Fill Slot WR Role
Brandon Powell played under O’Connell when he was the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams in 2021. O’Connell became the Vikings’ head coach the following year, and Powell joined Minnesota in 2023.
According to Alec Lewis of The Athletic, the entire coaching staff is fond of Powell. However, this doesn’t preclude the team from seeking additional competition for Powell and the other receivers behind Jefferson and Addison on the depth chart.
“It still feels like the Vikings could add another receiver to the mix,” Lewis wrote on May 2. “[Jalen] Nailor has shown flashes, but injuries have prevented him from seizing a full opportunity. [Trent] Sherfield can block. And Powell is reliable; the coaching staff loves him.”
If the Vikings explore free agency, Hunter Renfrow from the Las Vegas Raiders would be a logical choice.
“After accumulating 1,038 yards and nine touchdowns in 2021, [Renfrow] has totaled 585 receiving yards and two scores over the past two seasons,” ESPN’s Bill Barnwell noted on May 10. “The Vikings brought in Trent Sherfield this offseason and could expand Brandon Powell’s role, but Renfrow has had a much more productive season recently than either player has had in their careers. Renfrow would likely be competing with Powell for the third wideout and punt returner role in Minnesota, a competition he could win if given the opportunity.”