Since we are in the NFL offseason and training camp is almost underway, I thought it would be interesting to take a look at athletes who are flying under the radar and exceeding expectations this offseason. Some of the players are bound to have a breakout season, but the average fan may not know their name quite yet.

This segment focuses on Minnesota Vikings second-year wide receiver Jordan Addison, an athlete who had a solid rookie campaign in 2023.

Addison was drafted last year in the first-round from USC after playing the first two college seasons with the University of Pittsburgh. In his short college career, Addison posted 219 receptions for 3,134 total yards and 29 receiving touchdowns. He played a versatile role while at USC and Pitt, with an emphasis by the coaching staff to just get one of their best players the football. He also returned punts occasionally but it was something that did not stick.

When the youthful 22-year-old receiver first came to the Vikings, he instantly was placed upon a team with a franchise quarterback and a franchise wide receiver. Now, a year later he is surrounded just by the franchise receiver, Justin Jefferson, who locked up a long-term extension in early June. The loss of Kirk Cousins most likely will play a role for all offensive players, but head coach Kevin O’Connell’s system prioritizes a balanced attack, which can be effective even with a developing quarterback. Running the football, playing solid defense, utilizing the play-action off the running game is an O’Connell special. It is what many of the talented offensives use it the NFL today, such as the San Francisco 49ers and coach Kyle Shanahan.

Even though Addison is lacking a strong quarterback presence, he still has Jefferson to take away many of the other team’s defenders, opening up the passing game in favor of him and his abilities. There’s no question that in his second season, Addison will reach the 1,000-yard mark and continue to post high touchdown numbers.

CAREER NUMBERS AND MY PREDICTION FOR 2024: 

2023: 70 Receptions for 911 Yards, 13.0 Average, 10 Touchdowns

My Prediction: 

2024: 82 Receptions for 1,126 Yards, 13.7 Average, 14 Touchdowns.

Addison will remain consistent in his yards per catch average and find himself earning an additional four more touchdowns this season. As for the 82 receptions, this may seem very high due to the major question mark surrounding the starting quarterback position. Sam Darnold or J.J. McCarthy know how to get the ball to their playmakers and Kevin O’Connell’s scheme is not changing drastically; therefore, Addison if he remains healthy, should benefit from more receptions.

After posting 911 total yards, look for the young receiver to be determined to break the 1,000-yard mark for the first time in his short career. He is certainly a likeable athlete as there is no drama or negative light that is shined around his presence.

The Vikings just signed offensive staple Justin Jefferson to a massive contract extension in offseason. Jefferson secured a new four-year $140 million extension, and all eyes are no longer on the game-changing receiver and his demands.

There are no longer any distractions on the Vikings as of right now, and football production is now the main focus heading into training camp. This will not only bode well for the entire team, it will help Addison stay laser focused on his individual and team goals as Minnesota will look to improve upon their 7-10, third place NFC North finish a season ago.

In the comment section below, feel free to give your prediction and the reason behind it. Do you think Addison takes the next step in 2024? Why or why not.