Fansided

5 reasons the Vikings will win the NFC North

By Rucker Haringey

Kirk Cousins gives the Vikings a steady starter at quarterback. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
Kirk Cousins gives the Vikings a steady starter at quarterback. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /
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Adam Thielen, Minnesota Vikings
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – SEPTEMBER 22: Adam Thielen #19 of the Minnesota Vikings celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter of the game at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 22, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

4. The receiving corps is still excellent

The loss of Diggs is going to make the Vikings offense less dynamic in 2020. That doesn’t mean the receiving corps is suddenly bereft of talent. In fact, the group still grades out as well above-average.

Adam Thielen will face more double teams than ever before this season, but he has the athleticism and craft required to win those battles. His personal numbers might take a hit this year, but that won’t necessarily mean he’s not still playing great football.

The pressure will be on rookie Justin Jefferson to play meaningful snaps immediately. The Vikings hope he can give them 80% of Diggs’ production for only a fraction of the headache. The former LSU star’s best work might come in the slot, but look for him to make plays early on for Minnesota.

The inclusion of an intriguing tight end pairing really pushes this group into the upper echelon of NFL receiving groups. Kyle Rudolph is a steady starter who gives Kirk Cousins a safety valve. Irv Smith should take his job by mid-season and give the offense a more dynamic threat down the seam. Add it all up and Minnesota is still well-stocked with excellent pass catchers.

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