3 early Vikings training camp standouts who fans can’t ignore

2. K.J. Osborn is primed to take over much-needed WR3 role

The top two receiver spots in the Minnesota offense aren’t up for much debate with Jefferson and Adam Thielen occupying those two spots comfortably. However, it’s been a longstanding and unfortunate tradition of trying to find a consistent presence for the third wide receiver spot, particularly with Thielen experiencing some nagging injuries in the past couple of years.

Last season, however, K.J. Osborn attempted to stake his claim to that spot and, thus far in training camp, he’s not letting up on that.

Andrew Krammer of the Star Tribune noted on Aug. 4 that Osborn was separating himself in the battle for the WR3 spot in O’Connell’s offense as he consistently made plays in the offense, catching two impressive touchdowns in Monday’s practice, just for starters. Krammer also had offensive coordinator Wes Phillips fawning over Osborn’s ability.

"“A big, strong guy who is very smart and knows all the positions. He can move around, he can do some of the dirty work in the run game,” Phillips said. “He’ll surprise you and run by you as well. He’s a 4.3-type guy who can really run as well. There’s a lot of things to like about K.J.”"

There isn’t a ton of competition behind the 2020 fifth-round pick with Albert Wilson, Bisi Johnson, Ihmir Smith-Marsette and Jailen Nailor being the other players vying for that third spot. But if Osborn keeps playing the way he has, he won’t be competing but will earn the job wholly.