Jordan Addison, the dynamic wide receiver of the Minnesota Vikings, dazzled fans in his rookie year with remarkable stats: 70 receptions, 911 yards, and 10 touchdowns. Despite this stellar performance, NFL analyst Marcus Mosher of The 33rd Team has voiced concerns about Addison’s sophomore season.
Marcus Mosher warns that Addison may be headed for a sophomore slump due to significant changes within the Minnesota Vikings roster and a new quarterback, creating uncertainty about his ability to replicate last year’s success.
The Impact of Losing Kirk Cousins
A notable factor in Addison’s performance last season was the presence of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. Cousins played eight games before suffering a torn Achilles, during which Addison collected seven of his ten touchdowns. However, with Kirk Cousins now departed for the Atlanta Falcons in free agency, Addison will have to navigate a full season without the experienced QB guiding the offense.
Jordan Addison legitimately had the most slept on season ever by a rookie WR pic.twitter.com/NnujpI2wBW
— Jason (@_jason_777) May 8, 2024
The Minnesota Vikings have invested their future in rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the 10th overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft. While McCarthy possesses potential, his inevitable growing pains may spell a dip in Addison’s production.
Addison’s numbers already reflected the absence of Cousins last season: when Cousins was out, Addison averaged just 47.7 yards per game compared to 60.3 yards when he was in.
Justin Jefferson Returns, but Will Jordan Addison Thrive?
A contributing factor to Jordan Addison’s high productivity in 2023 was that he often found himself as the top receiving target due to an injury sidelining star wide receiver Justin Jefferson. With Jefferson back and healthy, Addison will likely return to his secondary role.
Mosher underscores that with Jefferson as the primary target and a rookie quarterback under center, Addison may face a more challenging offensive setup next season.
Can Jordan Addison Surpass Expectations?
While the predictions of a slump are grounded in the roster shifts, it’s also possible that Addison, as a rising talent, will evolve to meet the challenge.
He’s demonstrated strong route-running ability, reliable hands, and the capacity to rise in high-pressure situations.
His journey to secure consistent production will depend heavily on how well he adapts to McCarthy’s playing style and the offensive strategies implemented by the Vikings. Fans will be eager to see whether Jordan Addison can silence the skeptics and continue shining amid the anticipated turbulence in 2024.
