Former Vikings WR Finds a New Home

By Ted Schwerzler |

Updated: Dec 11, 2024

Over the offseason the Minnesota Vikings decided against bringing back free agent wide receiver K.J. Osborn. That allowed him to hit the open market as a free agent for the first time. He spent a brief stint with the New England Patriots, which grabbed a nice mount of guaranteed money. Osborn hit waivers earlier this week.

Osborn sought an opportunity to make a difference on a contender, and now it appears he has found that landing spot.

Washington Commanders grab former Minnesota Vikings K.J. Osborn

K.J. Osborn wound up being a lackluster fit for the New England Patriots. It’s tough to produce without the help of Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. The quarterback situation being what is is in New England doesn’t help either. Now he’s headed to a playoff contender, and the Commanders can figure out a way to filter them into their offense.

Former #Patriots WR KJ Osborn, who was waived yesterday, was claimed by the #Commanders, source said. pic.twitter.com/Qm2pyR7JC4
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 11, 2024

With the Patriots, Osborn played in just seven games and drew only four starts. He turned 18 targets into seven receptions and generated a total of only 57 yards. Although he did score a touchdown, it would be hard to suggest that the veteran didn’t steal more than $3 million from his new team.

This was a nice throw by Brissett to KJ Osborn. Why didn't Osborn try to catch it with two hands? pic.twitter.com/18kQJkoyNV
— Ben Brown 🌻 (@BenBrownPL) August 26, 2024

In moving to the Washington Commanders, Osborn has an opportunity to produce for a team with playoff aspirations. Jayden Daniels is among the best rookies across the NFL this season, and providing him with additional weapons is never going to be a bad thing.

It remains to be seen whether Osborn can contribute outside of Minnesota. Jalen Nailor has taken over his old role and posted 270 yards with five touchdowns in just 13 games. Of course Osborn’s situation was always going to be worse than it was previously, and he would need to show how his talent made the difference.

Osborn is now provided a new opportunity on a good team. It will be up to him to show what he can do with that the rest of the way.