Jauan Jennings helps, but the overall depth chart can use some more veterans.
Although not drafting a wide receiver in the NFL draft is still a head scratcher, things look different for the Minnesota Vikings and their receiver room. Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison are your top two options, and Jauan Jennings brings an edge to the offense along with his experience.
Earlier in the offseason, I speculated about veteran receivers to add, and named Deebo Samuel and Tyreek Hill. With the addition of Jennings, it means names like those are likely out. Neither of those players will accept a reduced salary and role, which is unlikely at this point in their careers.
The Jennings signing pushes away a reunion with Stefon Diggs, who was just cleared of any wrongdoing in a criminal case. The player the Vikings should identify and add has to be a veteran at the end of their time, and looking to chase a ring as a mentor of sorts.
That sounds like DeAndre Hopkins. No longer the All-Pro receiver at his age, Hopkins does have experience with Kyler Murray, and injuries happen quickly in the NFL. There is nothing wrong with veteran experience in a pinch. Who else can Minnesota trust if any of the three top options are injured?
Former Chargers receiver Keenan Allen is also available. Allen was never blessed with speed, but the former Cal receiver is still one of the best route technicians in the NFL. Jefferson, Addison, and even Jennings would benefit from Allen's example.
Perhaps one of the young players on the depth chart can step up and earn some trust (Tai Felton?). While that would be ideal, the good news for Minnesota is there will be veteran names to sign in training camp and even during the season. You can allow your camps to play out and see if a player steps up.
Names like Tim Patrick, Curtis Samuel, Zay Jones, and Jahan Dotson are available and all have experience in the NFL and wouldn't cost anything to add to the receiver room.
You can't blame Minnesota for evaluating the guys in their building and there are people in the organization rooting for players they scouted and bonded with, but the Vikings can't walk into the season with just three trusted receivers. Either someone earns the fourth spot or Minnesota must sign a vet who can take snaps if needed.
One more impact receiver and the Vikings have a claim at the best receiver group in the NFL.