Minnesota Vikings receivers coach Keenan McCardell was visibly excited after Minnesota had selected wide receiver Tai Felton in the third round of the 2025 NFL draft. That was all the endorsement fans needed regarding the incoming rookie.
Minnesota’s receiver depth may not be getting as much attention this offseason, but it is still worth noting. With the emergence of Jalen Nailor‘s big-play ability, the rotation for the third spot primarily cycled through him. Still, the Vikings’ supporting receiver corps was sometimes inconsistent, and it seemed they desired more from their wideouts.
Having the best receiver in the game boosts the overall production of that group. Jefferson’s gravitational pull on the opposing secondary makes everyone else’s job easier. Felton can take advantage of joining a group that makes its money on passes downfield.
He played special teams at Maryland, so he would already have an in for some playing time if he plays well during mini-camp and training camp. Felton has a kick returner’s mentality, good field vision, and can make guys miss. His ability to create big plays after his feet are set could be a valuable tool for McCardell.
Felton ran a 4.37 40-yard dash at the combine, and his unique combination of length and speed contributes to his big-play ability. He may lack mass and weight but makes up for it with acceleration.
Felton has solid footwork in his release and an understanding of leverage when leaning into defensive backs at the breakpoint. He can succeed using deep ins, comebacks, and corner routes in addition to bubble screens and hitch routes. However, Felton can be better at stacking defenders downfield. If Felton can put on some size before his rookie campaign, that speed on the outside with a bit of hand fighting can lead to bigger results in longer-developing routes.
He will have his work cut out for him when trying to claim his role in one of the league’s most exciting offenses. Still, the hope of maximizing his athletic ability in the open field could make J.J. McCarthy‘s job much easier. It’s always nice to have guys you can trust with dump-offs on a third-and-long to see what can come of it. Felton can stretch drives in that role.
After finishing in the top three for receiving yards in the Big Ten last year, Felton’s productivity was crucial considering his volume. He was a workhorse for Maryland and ended his last year of college with 96 receptions.
Suppose Jordan Addison has to serve a DUI suspension, or Jalen Nailor‘s production as the WR3 doesn’t warrant full-time reps. In that case, Felton can sneak into the lineup with Keenan McCarrdell’s help and learn alongside Justin Jefferson. Big play opportunities could come sooner rather than later for the rookie.