Second-year wide receiver Jordan Addison is currently facing multiple uncertainties that could prompt the Minnesota Vikings to consider alternative options for their receiving corps, alongside their top targets, Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson.
Addison is contending with an ankle injury, though Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has downplayed its seriousness. In addition, Addison may face a suspension due to a second legal issue since joining the NFL. Bleacher Report’s scouting department recommends exploring free agency options, specifically suggesting former Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Hunter Renfrow.
According to Bleacher Report’s scouts on August 19, the Vikings’ receiving depth is being tested after injuries to Addison and Thayer Thomas during practice. While O’Connell remains optimistic about Addison’s condition, the team could benefit from adding another potential third receiver, a role Renfrow has experience in. Though Renfrow’s performance has declined since his Pro Bowl season in 2021, he could still serve as a useful addition, even if just for training camp.
In the 2023 season, Renfrow posted career lows with 25 receptions for 255 yards and no touchdowns. Given Addison’s uncertain situation, adding Renfrow could be a prudent move for the Vikings. Addison faces a court date on October 7 related to a DUI arrest and another citation for reckless driving earlier in the year.
Addison, the 23rd overall pick in the 2023 draft, made a significant impact as a rookie with 70 catches for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns. Losing him would create a gap that Renfrow might fill. In 2021, Renfrow had 103 receptions for 1,038 yards and nine touchdowns, and could potentially play in the slot alongside Addison and Jefferson if signed.
The Vikings have internal options such as Super Bowl champion Brandon Powell, favored by the coaching staff Jalen Nailor, and 2024 free agent addition Trent Sherfield. They also recently signed former Raider Justin Hall. These options, with their varied skill sets, might be preferable to bringing in Renfrow or another free agent.
Renfrow, turning 29 in December, may seek a team with a more certain playoff outlook. The Vikings, who finished 2023 with a 1-6 record, have $19.6 million in cap space. Renfrow was cut by the Raiders in March after the final year of his two-year, $31.7 million contract extension, and has earned $24.4 million in his career.
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