RADIO
Adam Thielen 2018 Outlook: Is He The Number One WR In MIN?
6 years agoAdam Thielen is coming off of a terrific 2017 where he finished with 91 catches with 1,276 yards, but only had four touchdown catches. Although Stefon Diggs may be the more notable name out of the Vikings receiving corps, Thielen is the one with higher value after back-to-back seasons with better performances than the aforementioned Diggs.
Running out of the slot will benefit Thielen even more in the upcoming season with the Vikings bringing in Kirk Cousins to run the offense, which will be a significant upgrade over Case Keenum. Cousins enjoys attacking the middle of the field, but I do not think Thielen will replicate his 143-target season like last year.
Although the Vikings made their improvement at the quarterback position, it is important to note that the their 2017 offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur has left to take the New York Giants head coaching position. The Vikings are bringing in former Eagles QB coach John DeFilippo to call the shots.
Even with the new coordinator, I would still feel comfortable taking Thielen in the mid-to-late third round. You will likely see both him and Diggs on the top of the draft board at that time, but Thielen is the avenue you should venture down with Cousins running the show for the purple and gold.
