With a depleted receiver room heading into the start of the regular season, the Minnesota Vikings are looking to add another pass-catcher into the mix.
Per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Vikings are “seriously exploring” the trade market for wide receivers with Justin Jefferson dealing with a hamstring injury and Jordan Addison set to miss the first three games while serving a suspension.
he Vikings did get positive news about Jefferson this week when he was able to practice on Monday for the first time since July 24. He was originally diagnosed with a mild hamstring strain, per head coach Kevin O’Connell.
Pelissero did note Jefferson is on track to be ready for Week 1. Addison’s absence appears to be the more pressing issue because he won’t be able to play until Sept. 28 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The NFL suspended Addison for three games due to a violation of the league’s substance abuse policy stemming from a 2024 DUI citation. He pleaded guilty to a lesser charge in July that requires him to pay a fine and complete two online courses.
There’s going to be a lot roster activity throughout the league within the next week. The deadline for teams to cut their rosters down to 53 players is 4 p.m. ET on Aug. 26.
Per The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, the New York Jets and San Francisco 49ers are also among the teams inquiring about trading for receivers.
Some receivers who have been talked about as potential cut candidates could be traded ahead of time if the asking price is friendly for the acquiring club. Kendrick Bourne and Ja’Lynn Polk of the New England Patriots have frequently popped up as cut candidates.
Despite the Jets pursuing pass-catching help, second-year wideout Malachi Corley doesn’t seem to be in the mix for them based on his snap count in Saturday’s preseason loss to the New York Giants.
Skyy Moore, who is entering the final season of his rookie deal, seems like a longshot to remain with the Kansas City Chiefs.
None of these players would likely be a difference-making addition for the Vikings, but they could get more opportunities to shine in a new environment.
Given how much attention Jefferson commands from opposing defenses, the No. 2 receiver in Minnesota can get a lot of open looks.
The Vikings will play their final preseason game on Friday against the Tennessee Titans. They kickoff the regular season on Sept. 8 against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field in the Monday Night Football opener.
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