On March 19th, the New England Patriots signed former Minnesota Vikings wide receiver K.J. Osborn to a one-year, $4 million deal, marking the end of his four-year tenure in Minnesota.
Popular Viking Farewells Fans
Following Osborn’s departure, the Vikings are expected to look to Jalen Nailor, Brandon Powell, and Trent Sherfield for the WR3 role, although they may consider adding a rookie wide receiver from the upcoming draft in just over two weeks.
In a post on Instagram earlier this week, Osborn bid a formal farewell to Vikings fans as he begins his new journey in the AFC after spending his entire rookie contract with the Vikings. The University of Miami graduate gained prominence in the summer of 2021 after a quiet rookie season during the pandemic. Despite not seeing any offensive action as a rookie, Osborn impressed during the following season’s training camp.
Osborn remained with the Vikings through the end of the 2023 season, primarily serving as the WR3. His emergence was crucial for the Vikings, who had struggled to solidify the WR3 position for about four seasons, relying on players like Bisi Johnson and Chad Beebe. However, Osborn’s breakthrough in 2021 finally provided the team with a reliable third wide receiver option.
Osborn recorded 48 receptions for 540 yards and 3 touchdowns in 2023, maintaining a consistent performance level, albeit with a slight drop in touchdown numbers.
With Jordan Addison’s rise to WR2, Osborn likely saw an opportunity to secure a more lucrative contract in free agency than what the Vikings were willing to offer. Additionally, Osborn was not drafted by the current front office and coaching staff, suggesting he was not a top priority for re-signing.
Following the selection of Addison, it became apparent that Osborn’s time in Minnesota was limited. The Patriots’ current wide receiver room includes JuJu Smith-Schuster, Kendrick Bourne, DeMario Douglas, Jalen Reagor, Tyquan Thornton, Kayshon Boutte, T.J. Luther, and Kawaan Baker. New England also has the opportunity to further enhance their wide receiver group by potentially drafting Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr. with the third overall pick, a move that could significantly bolster their roster. Additionally, the Patriots might consider selecting a quarterback like Jayden Daniels or Drake Maye with the third overall pick to address their quarterback needs.
