The Minnesota Vikings kickoff their regular season schedule on Sunday , against the New York Giants. They usher in a new era at quarterback, and head coach Kevin O’Connell is tasked with exceeding low expectations .
One position of strength, but little depth, is wide receiver. Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison make for one of the best one + two punches at the position, but what’s behind them? The Vikings want it to be Jalen Nailor.
Minnesota Vikings haven’t been able to rely on Jalen Nailor
Arguably the only thing that has held the Michigan State Spartan back, during his NFL career, has been availability. The Minnesota Vikings haven’t been able to unleash Nailor, because he can’t stay on the field. At practice, and when available the past couple of preseasons, he’s looked incredible.
That’s why the Vikings were so excited to get him through the 2024 training camp healthy, and ready for week one. Or so we thought… According to Alec Lewis (The Athletic) , Nailor was not a participant at practice yesterday, leaving his status for Sunday unknown.
“ Nailor, who is emerging from one of the most impressive training camps of any Vikings player, did not appear to be fully participating in the media portion of Monday’s practice. The first Week 1 injury report will be released Wednesday, which should shed light on Nailor’s availability for Sunday’s opener. “
Alec Lewis on Jalen Nailor’s injury status (The Athletic)
The opportunity for Nailor is immense. With Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison expected to draw extra attention, he becomes the next man up. As long as T.J. Hockenson remains sidelined for the Vikings, O’Connell will need his other playmakers to carry the load.
Minnesota Vikings wideout room depends on Jalen Nailor
Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison will always be atop the Minnesota Vikings depth chart. The former is the best wideout in the league, and the latter could be the best secondary option.
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The problem for Minnesota is that the latter is both injured , and could miss time due to a suspension . Jalen Nailor being available, and productive, is imperative for the Vikings offense.
Nailor has just 208 yards to his credit over the course of his two year career. He put up 94 yards on just four catches this preseason. It was clear he would be a focal point for the offense, and almost immediately it was evident that he had won the third wide receiver role.
If he can stay healthy, 2024 Jalen Nailor would blow past those numbers in no time. Depth behind Nailor is dicey, at best. Brandon Powell didn’t overtake him for the WR3 job, and the group beyond that is entirely unproven.
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The further down the depth chart that O’Connell needs to travel, especially without Hockenson, the worse things could get. Sam Darnold needs all of the Vikings top weapons on a weekly basis. Nailor is now among them, and has to keep himself fresh.
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