Jordan Addison Named Pivotal Rookie for Vikings

Former Pitt Panthers wide receiver Jordan Addison will play a crucial role for the Minnesota Vikings.

PITTSBURGH -- The Minnesota Vikings bolstered a strong passing offense in the 2023 NFL Draft when they took former Pitt Panthers wideout Jordan Addison with the 23rd overall pick. 

And Addison, who starred at Pitt from 2020-2021, is expected to play a crucial role for the Vikings, who will have to replace running back Dalvin Cook and receiver Adam Theilen this year. 

"Undrafted free-agent signee Ivan Pace Jr. is all the rage at Vikings camp, with the linebacker flying all over the field to make plays," NFL Draft analyst Lance Zierlein wrote. "However, the development of Addison as a complementary WR threat to Justin Jefferson will yield the best indicator of where Minnesota's headed this season. Addison is a polished receiver but lacks separation speed, so his ball skills and route-running must shine to keep Kirk Cousins humming in that offense."

Addison was a show-stopping talent during his tenure with the Panthers, amassing nearly 1,600 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns to earn 2021 Biletnikoff Award honors. He transferred to USC the following season and caught 59 passes for 875 yards and eight touchdowns while battling an injury in his final collegiate season. 

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