Vikings are Incredibly Healthy Entering Week 1… Except at WR

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Jalen Nailor
Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

The Minnesota Vikings come into Week 1 as favorites against the New York Giants. Sam Darnold is set to make his debut, and Kevin O’Connell is looking for momentum out of the gate. It looks like the head coach will have a healthy roster, but one position group didn’t get the message.

Key Minnesota Vikings wide receivers stand alone on Week 1 depth chart

Justin Jefferson is the best wide receiver in football. He has cemented that claim, and is looking forward to being healthy again in 2024. His contributions will be impacted this season by how much pressure Jordan Addison and Jalen Nailor can draw away from him. There’s a possibility that the Week 1 answer to that question is none.

Jordan Addison was injured during joint practices with the Cleveland Browns. It appeared his ankle issue was going to be substantial. At this point he is designated as limited, but local insider Darren “Doogie” Wolfson expects him to play. Jalen Nailor’s injury popped up this week, and he seems to be more of a question.

The only thing that has held Nailor back in his young career has been an inability to stay healthy. He won the wide receiver job this preseason, and now needs to remain on the field. Darnold is in the best place of his career, but it’s because of the playmakers he has at his disposal.

Related: Vikings WR Jalen Nailor Has One Very Important Fan at TCO Performance Center

Even considering T.J. Hockenson’s absence, this is probably the most healthy the Vikings will be all year.

Jalen Nailor has golden opportunity for Minnesota Vikings

K.J. Osborn held down the third wide receiver role for a few years, but never completely blossomed. Jalen Nailor beat out veteran Brandon Powell for the chance to start, and could set new career-high numbers. Nailor already showed out during the preseason, and putting up when it counts is right in front of him.

Osborn put up just 540 yards last season despite drawing 12 starts. Nailor could be in line for multiple more games, and creating opportunities to contribute more than three touchdowns would be a boost. Kevin O’Connell’s offense can be a prolific passing attack, but the pass catchers have to be present.

Related: 5 Minnesota Vikings Who Will Be Better Than Last Year

Minnesota may just watch the next standout wide receiver blossom as a healthy 25-year-old.

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