Veteran Receiver, Punt Returner Rumored to Minnesota
Dede Westbrook came to Minnesota last season with some hope that he’d solidify the WR3 spot. Instead, K.J. Osborn shined while Westbrook was relegated to WR4 duties.
His main contribution came as a punt returner. Apparently, the Vikings will give the veteran another shot:
Before joining the Vikings in 2021, Dede Westbrook played for Jacksonville for four years. His best statistical season occurred in 2018 when he turned 66 catches into 717 yards and 5 TDs. The next year, Westbrook put forth another solid season: 66 catches, 660 yards, and 3 TDs. Since that time, his production has been modest. He put together 10 catches for 68 yards for Minnesota last season. Given the depth in Minnesota’s receiver room, Westbrook will need to show that he’s worth a roster based almost exclusively on his special teams abilities.
He had 22 punt returns last season for 183 yards. His longest return went for 45 yards. For the most part, he was a steady, unspectacular option. Now, the main thing one wants from their punt returner is ball security. A defense works way too hard for the ball to get turned over during the return. If someone can put the offense in a nice spot with sizeable returns, then a coaching staff will gladly take that.
If he’s signed, Dede Westbrook will likely need to settle for an unguaranteed deal near or at the veteran minimum. He’ll then compete with Osborn, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, and perhaps Kene Nwangwu for the punt return spot (among others).
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