Scott Dochterman, The Athletic
Note: Dochterman issued grades for the usage of each pick from Rounds 1-3 and then one grade for Rounds 4-7.
Grade for Addison pick: C
Analysis: With only five overall picks, a tough salary cap situation and the 31st-ranked defense, the Vikings seemed set to improve that side of the ball. Or, with quarterback Kirk Cousins under contract for only one more year, Minnesota could have selected his replacement. Instead, the Vikings chose a prolific receiver in Addison to combine with Justin Jefferson and take their chances.
In some ways, it’s understandable. In two seasons, Addison (5-11, 173) caught passes from first-round quarterback Kenny Pickett at Pitt, then from Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams at USC. In 2021, Addison was a first-team All-American and Biletnikoff Award winner with 100 catches for 1,593 yards and 17 touchdowns for the ACC champion Panthers. Then, in a move that garnered plenty of attention, Addison entered the transfer portal and ended up at USC.
He’s the only three-year receiver in the draft with more than 3,000 career receiving yards. Most of his targets — 57.8 percent, according to Brugler — came within 10 yards of the line of scrimmage. Addison played more outside snaps in 2022 but was primarily a slot receiver over his career.
The Vikings offense gets more explosive with this move, but it comes at the risk of exposing an already challenged defense.
Click here for Dochterman’s grades for Round 1.
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