Working out Justin Jefferson’s colossal extension and working through a transition period at quarterback were priorities this offseason for the Minnesota Vikings, and just the same storylines which commanded the headlines.
All the while, one of the Vikings’ most promising future stars was toiling away with an focus on becoming one of the NFL’s elite receivers himself.
Jordan Addison believes he’s done just that as he approaches his second season rife with confidence that he can outperform his stellar rookie showing.
“(I’ve) taken my game to the next level in one year,” Addison said recently, via ESPN’s Kevin Seifert.
Reports suggest Addison -- in his first full offseason in the NFL -- has flourished, blooming under receivers coach Keenan McCardell, who once formed one of league’s top WR combos as a member of the Jacksonville Jaguars with Jimmy Smith.
That’s clearly the hope for Addison and Jefferson.
Though Jefferson was limited to 10 games in 2023 due to a hamstring injury, Addison shined despite the extra attention from defenses. He led the Vikings -- and all rookies -- with 10 touchdown receptions and posted 911 yards on 70 catches.
The No. 23 overall pick of the 2023 NFL Draft put up impressive numbers catching balls from Kirk Cousins, Josh Dobbs, Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall. Thus, whether it’s J.J. McCarthy or Sam Darnold who begins the season as the Vikings’ new starting QB, one year’s sample size suggests Addison will still produce.
His spring showing perhaps makes a stronger argument.
A year ago at this time, Addison was nursing an injury that forced him to miss Vikings spring practices. This year, he’s put on a show at organized team activities and minicamp.
"Jordan Addison had as good of an offseason program as really you can ask for," head coach Kevin O'Connell said. "[He is] a guy that had a ton of success in Year 1. And really, from a standpoint of getting a little stronger, getting a little bit more comfortable playing through contact and still playing with that great burst and transition that he has, you saw some real growth there [this spring]."
Under the radar, away from the headlines, Addison has been putting in the work. He’s concentrated on refining his game, in particular, hoping that improving his technique will amplify his already sterling talents.
"Last year I wasn't as confident in my releases," he said. "I wasn't being decisive. I didn't have a plan when I was coming up to the line. I was just freelancing trying to make something work."
He made plenty work in 2023 and believes his offseason improvements will key an even better 2024.