Fantasy Football News

Osborn's continual playmaking in Vikings training camp may see him earn an even bigger role ahead of the 2022 season.

Related Players: Olabisi Johnson, Albert Wilson, Ihmir Smith-Marsette

With the names behind him on the depth chart, I don't think Osborn has anything to worry about as long as he keeps performing; the WR3 spot is all his. New head coach Kevin O'Connell is sure to increase the team's passing rates, and he had warming praise for the receiver here in camp, remarking, "He's been really, really good...There's no other way to describe it early on in camp." With TE Irv Smith still dealing with a thumb issue, Osborn could end up as a consistent third option for Kirk Cousins.

After the team announced starting tight end Irv Smith Jr. would miss the preseason with a thumb injury, starting running back Dalvin Cook left the practice field with what appeared to be a hand injury. He returned for one team snap and then sat out the rest of Tuesday's practice at TCO Performance Center.

Later, his backup, Alexander Mattison, also appeared to injure a finger on a play. He, too, watched the rest of practice from the sideline.

And a third running back, Kene Nwangwu, suffered what coach Kevin O'Connell called a "soft-tissue, lower-leg injury" on Monday. Nwangwu sat out Monday and Tuesday.

There wasn't any other information but hopefully the injuries aren't serious. Cook, of course, is ranked high among running backs in terms of fantasy value, and we have him sixth on our running back list.

Vikings’ TE Irv Smith underwent thumb surgery today.

HC Kevin O'Connell expects him to be ready for start of the regular season, according to the rest of Schefter's tweet. Smith was a popular breakout candidate heading into last season but a torn meniscus ended his season in early September. In his place, Tyler Conklin was the fantasy TE16, and last year’s offense was likely more run-heavy than the 2022 version will be. In the 11 career games where Smith saw at least four targets, he averaged 3.7 receptions for 39 yards and 0.45 touchdowns (on 5.2 targets per game), which works out to 8.7 PPG. That’s about what Kyle Pitts averaged as last season’s TE5. A top-12 finish is definitely in play for Smith.

No surprise that K.J. Osborn locked into the No. 3 WR spot for Vikings.

Related players: Justin Jefferson, Adam Thielen, Olabisi Johnson, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, Irv Smith Jr.

Levitan said those who cover the team are expecting a bump in both pass rate and 3-WR sets with Kevin O'Connell in charge. So Osborn could end up having some fantasy value. However he'll have to battle target monsters Jefferson and Thielen, and perhaps also the return of Smith Jr. at tight end. The post also indicated Smith-Marsette is the WR4 right now.

The Minnesota Vikings are adding WR Albert Wilson.

Word was Dede Westbrook was in for a visit as well, and it appears Wilson was the successor today. Wilson adds depth and some special teams potential, but not much else. Regardless, BERT ALERT!

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell addressed TE Irv Smith Jr.'s role heading into his first season leading the team. "I know there were a lot of folks excited about him last fall before that injury," O'Connell said. "He's going to be a major part of what we do."

O'Connell also added that the team has to be careful with his return from his knee injury.

It is hype season, but with Tyler Conklin in New Jersey and little competition for targets, Smith has a chance to (finally) take the step forward that was expected prior to injury in 2021.

Vikings HC Mike Zimmer told reporters Wednesday that QB Kirk Cousins will start Week 18 against the Chicago Bears.

Cousins will get what could be his last start as a Viking at home against the Bears.

Vikings QB Sean Mannion will be activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list and start Week 17 against the Green Bay Packers.

Move along. Nothing to see here.

Vikings QB Kirk Cousins has been placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list and will miss Week 17 against the Green Bay Packers.

Related Players: Kyle Sloter, Kellen Mond

All of your Vikings skill position take a major hit Week 17.