Aug 3, 2026 11:00 AM
The Vikings need to find their future at X receiver.
The Minnesota Vikings have a star-studded wide receiver room highlighted by Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. But one crucial archetype has been missing from their offense: a big-bodied X receiver. The Vikings signed Jauan Jennings to fill this role in 2026; however, it was on a one-year deal, and he isn’t their long-term plan. Thus, an X, contested-catch specialist receiver will be a top priority next offseason. If they do fix it during the draft, here are five enticing options.
KJ Duff- Rutgers
KJ Duff bullies opposing defensive backs with his monstrous frame, six-foot-six, 225 pounds, with excellent athleticism and superb hands. He has threatening vertical speed and is surprisingly quick for someone his size. Then, he dominates the catchpoint as he highpoints the ball and reels it in with his iron-clad hands. Because of this, he’s an intriguing prospect who can establish himself as a first-round prospect with an impressive 2026 campaign.
Charlie Becker- Indiana
Charlie Becker exploded onto the college football landscape with an immaculate stretch late in Indiana’s season. Now, he’s set to carry that momentum into 2026 and put together a full year. The six-foot-four, 209-pound receiver pairs reliable hands with blazing speed, making him a dangerous threat for opposing defenses. Additionally, he’s flashed impressive route running and could become a three-level weapon capable of both creating separation and winning in contested-catch scenarios: a defense’s worst nightmare.
Duce Robinson- Florida State
Duce Robinson had a superb 2025 campaign at Florida State with 56 receptions, 1,081 yards, and six touchdowns. The six-foot-six, 230-pound senior used his staggering physicality and was nearly unstoppable against smaller receivers in one-on-one situations. Robinson won’t ever be a spectacular route runner and doesn't have elite speed/quickness, but will excel as a prototypical contested-catch X receiver in the NFL.
Nick Marsh- Indiana
Nick Marsh was one of the few bright spots in a bleak Michigan State team with 58 receptions, 662 yards, and six touchdowns. Despite being six-foot-three, Marsh is an amazing route runner and consistently stems defenders, attacking their leverage to create separation. Then, he becomes a battering ram after the catch and seeks contact, oftentimes barreling through it. He and the aforementioned Charlie Becker will form a dynamic tandem at Indiana, and both have first-round potential.
Nyck Harbor- South Carolina
Nyck Harbor is still raw as a route runner and doesn’t have reliable hands, but he has the highest potential of any receiver in the league. The six-foot-five, 235-pound superhuman is a world-class athlete, qualifying for the Olympic Trials in the 100 and 200-meter dash. He pairs this blazing speed with unparalleled explosiveness, making him a constant mismatch. Harbor’s a contentious prospect, but his potential is untapped and could be unlocked in 2026 and beyond.
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