Vikings Eyeing Former 1st-Round Playmaker to Bolster Wide Receiver Corps
Vikings Eyeing Phillip Dorsett to Bolster Wide Receiver Corps
The Minnesota Vikings have an opportunity to bolster one of their key positions before training camp by acquiring recently released Denver Broncos wide receiver Phillip Dorsett.
Dorsett, who was cut on May 12th, was selected as the No. 29 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. He could potentially fill the void as the team’s third wide receiver, a spot vacated by K.J. Osborn, who departed for the New England Patriots in the offseason.
A former collegiate track standout, Dorsett, standing at 5 feet 10 inches and weighing 192 pounds, boasts impressive speed with a 40-yard dash time of 4.33 seconds. His skill set suggests he could excel as both a deep threat and an explosive slot receiver.
Described in his pre-draft scouting report as capable of challenging defenses vertically from both the inside and outside positions, Dorsett brings a dynamic element to the Vikings’ receiving corps.
ESPN’s Aaron Schatz has identified the slot wide receiver position as a significant area of need for the Vikings heading into training camp. He noted that while Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison provide solid options on the outside, the depth behind them is lacking. Schatz highlighted Dorsett as a potential solution, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding the current roster of slot receivers.
Although Dorsett, at 31 years old, did not record any receptions in the 2023 season, he could join the Vikings on a veteran minimum contract and showcase his abilities during camp.
Despite bouncing around several teams since leaving the Indianapolis Colts in 2018, Dorsett has accumulated valuable experience in the league. With 151 receptions, 2,001 receiving yards, and 12 touchdowns in 94 career games (including 20 starts), he brings a level of veteran savvy to any team.
While Dorsett may not have been a high-volume producer in the past, his track record suggests he could be a reliable option, especially in pressure situations. Given the Vikings’ offensive scheme and the role of tight end T.J. Hockenson, the team may not require significant production from their third wide receiver, making Dorsett a potentially valuable addition to the roster. Therefore, giving him an opportunity during the summer seems like a prudent move for the Vikings.
