The Minnesota Vikings have always been a team known for their strong and dynamic offense. With players like Kirk Cousins and Dalvin Cook leading the way, the Vikings have consistently been a force to be reckoned with on the field. However, one position that has been somewhat overlooked in recent years is the tight end position. But that may all be about to change.
According to Pro Football Focus, the Vikings currently have eight tight ends on their roster. While this may seem like a lot, it’s actually a smart move by the Vikings coaching staff. Each of these tight ends brings a unique skill set to the table, and it’s clear that the Vikings are looking to build a strong and versatile tight end group for the future.
One name that stands out on the roster is Irv Smith Jr. The second-year tight end out of Alabama has shown great potential in his rookie season, recording 36 receptions for 311 yards and two touchdowns. He has a great combination of size and speed, making him a threat in both the passing and blocking game. With more experience under his belt, Smith Jr. is poised to have a breakout season in 2021.
Another player to keep an eye on is Tyler Conklin. The fourth-year tight end has been a solid backup for the Vikings, but he has the potential to do much more. In limited playing time last season, Conklin had 19 receptions for 194 yards and a touchdown. He has shown great chemistry with Cousins and could be a valuable weapon in the red zone.
But what may surprise some fans is Pro Football Focus’ pick for the Vikings’ 2025 watchlist – Brandon Dillon. The undrafted rookie out of Marian University was signed by the Vikings in 2020 and spent the season on the practice squad. However, PFF sees great potential in Dillon and believes he could make a big impact in the future.
At 6’5” and 255 pounds, Dillon has the size and strength to be a dominant force on the field. He also has great hands and route-running ability, making him a reliable target for quarterbacks. While he may not have the experience of some of the other tight ends on the roster, Dillon has shown great potential in training camp and could be a surprise standout in the upcoming season.
But it’s not just these three players that make the Vikings’ tight end group so intriguing. Tyler Gronkowski, who was signed as an undrafted free agent this year, has been turning heads in training camp with his speed and athleticism. Second-year player Nakia Griffin-Stewart has also been making plays in camp and could be a valuable backup for the Vikings.
The Vikings also have veterans Kyle Rudolph and Brandon Dillon on the roster, providing leadership and experience for the young tight ends. While Rudolph may not have the same impact on the field as he used to, he is still a valuable mentor for the younger players. And with his contract set to expire after the 2021 season, it will be interesting to see how the Vikings utilize him in the coming years.
Overall, Pro Football Focus’ pick for the Vikings’ 2025 watchlist may seem like a strange one at first glance, but it’s a testament to the depth and potential of the Vikings’ tight end group. With a mix of young talent and experienced veterans, the Vikings are building a strong tight end group that could be a key factor in their success in the future.
So, while some may question the Vikings’ decision to have eight tight ends on their roster, it’s clear that they have a plan in place. And with players like Irv Smith Jr., Tyler Conklin, and Brandon Dillon leading the way, the Vikings’ tight end group is one to watch for in the coming years. As a fan, I can’t wait to see what this talented group of players can accomplish on the field. The future is bright for the Vikings’ tight ends, and I, for one, am excited to see it unfold.
