Jordan Addison, 2024 Outlook: Needs Effective Quarterback Play To Maintain WR3 Production
7 months agoJordan Addison became the fourth wide receiver to be selected during Round 1 of the 2023 NFL Draft (23rd overall) and justified Minnesota's decision during his promising rookie season. Addison's route-running acumen fueled his ability to perform proficiently at the NFL level despite the absence of optimal size or elite speed. Addison finished second among rookies in targets (108/6.4 per game), was third in receiving yards (911/53.6 per game), and tied for fourth among all receivers in touchdowns (10). Addison collected 52 targets (6.5 per game) and 36 receptions (4.5 per game) from Weeks 1-8 with Kirk Cousins spearheading the offense. He also soared to second in touchdowns (seven) and was 14th in points per game (15.8) before Cousins sustained a torn Achilles. Addison secured 56 targets (6.2 per game), 34 receptions (3.8 per game), and 429 yards (47.7 per game) with Nick Mullens, Joshua Dobbs, and Jaren Hall under center (Weeks 9-18), while dropping to 43rd in points per game (10.5). Addison benefits from Kevin O'Connell's play-calling and his role as the Vikings' WR2 remains intact. However, his prospects of replicating last year's WR3 production for fantasy managers depend on the play of Minnesota quarterbacks Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy. The uncertain timeline for McCarthy's development into an effective starter should incentivize you to wait until Round 7 before selecting Addison in best-ball leagues. The 22-year-old emerges as a more enticing option in dynasty startup drafts and can be targeted in Round 4.