The Minnesota Vikings should consider providing J.J. McCarthy with as much support as possible in the future, which might include enhancing their wide receiver lineup with Tennessee Titans’ first-round pick Treylon Burks.
Alex Kay from Bleacher Report suggested that the Vikings could acquire Burks by trading a seventh-round pick to the Titans. Burks was the 18th overall pick in the 2022 draft.
“Treylon Burks could be the high-upside talent the Vikings need to reinforce their receiving corps at low cost,” Kay wrote. “The team lacks a competent third receiver and shouldn’t hesitate to make a trade to strengthen that weak point in the offense.”
With K.J. Osborn signing with the New England Patriots in March, Brandon Powell is currently the leading candidate for the third wide receiver spot in the Vikings’ offense. Powell, who is nearing 29, had career-highs of 29 receptions and 324 yards receiving last season, but his potential is limited.
Burks, 24, hasn’t been given a fair chance with the Titans due to inconsistent quarterback play over the past two seasons. The Titans’ recent signing of Tyler Boyd suggests Burks might be the odd man out in Tennessee.
“Although Burks hasn’t produced much in his two seasons (49 receptions for 665 yards and one touchdown across 22 games), he has dealt with injuries, poor quarterback play, and a run-heavy system that have hindered his development,” Kay added. “He still has a high ceiling due to his size, strength, athleticism, and versatility—traits that could allow him to excel in the slot for the Vikings.”
Burks still has two years remaining on his four-year, $14.3 million rookie contract, with the option for a fifth year if he has a breakout season in 2024.
Injuries affected the Vikings’ wide receiver corps significantly last season, and Powell was the backup who stepped up the most. When Justin Jefferson suffered a hamstring injury in Week 5, Powell became the next man up. Despite being undersized at 5-foot-8, Powell played a career-high 111 snaps out wide, catching 3-of-4 passes for 75 yards on deep throws, showcasing a versatility the Vikings trusted due to injuries at the position.
However, Powell has not been as productive on intermediate routes where the Vikings aim to excel in the passing game, which is why they might seek additional answers at wide receiver via trade. At 6-foot-2, 225 pounds, Burks has impressive size and speed but was considered a raw talent out of Arkansas. He could benefit from development under Vikings receivers coach Keenan McCardell.
