5 bold predictions for Vikings in 2019

2. Adam Thielen will catch 130 passes

Thielen exploded last season en route to 113 catches for 1,373 yards and nine touchdowns last season. He could post even larger numbers in 2019.

Most NFL observers are predicting Thielen’s numbers to regress slightly. That ignores the obvious potential for growth this offense possesses. Improved offensive line play is almost certainly going to help this team throw the ball with more efficiency. If that happens, it’s reasonable to expect Thielen to experience a massive season.

He may not post more yards than he did in 2018, but he’s got a chance to catch even more passes. Stefon Diggs will continue to be the deep threat which typically gives Thielen a ton of room to work underneath. An increased rapport with Cousins in their second year together is also going to give his receptions total a healthy boost.

Thielen isn’t going to break Marvin Harrison’s single season record of 143 catches, but don’t be surprised if he flirts with doing so for a while. He’ll blow past last year’s total of 113 and finish comfortably above 130 receptions.