The Minnesota Vikings, an NFC contender, may unexpectedly deal for Super Bowl champion wide receiver Robert Woods this offseason. According to one rumour, they are pressing the Vikings to sign a wide receiver to support Justin Jefferson after extending him to a huge contract. This move is possible because they were able to sign a new contract, freeing up $11 million in cap space. However, the source believes that adding Woods to the Vikings’ receiving corps will give him more opportunities.
Woods is in the final year of his two-year, $15.3 million contract with the Houston Texans, which has prompted speculation that he could be traded or released. The Texans are stacking up at the wideout position after trading for Stefon Diggs this offseason. Tank Dell and Nico Collins are the receivers next in line for starting roles, leaving Woods in the dark. Houston has the option to cut him before the 2024 season, which would save at least $5 million in salary cap.
However, the former Super Bowl winner may succeed in Minnesota’s offense with Jefferson and Jordan Addison. The Vikings still need a reliable third receiver, so this deal makes sense, especially since it would free up the limelight for Woods. Minnesota should explore making this transaction since Woods and Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell work well together. They spent two years with the Los Angeles Rams, winning the Super Bowl in 2021.
It would make great sense given both of them have experience playing under Sean McVay thus he should be on their radar. However, Woods is in the twilight of his career and his production is slipping below. He is coming off a season in which he only had 40 receptions for 426 yards and one touchdown.
NFC Contender Minnesota Vikings Could Surprisingly Trade for Super Bowl Champion Robert Woods.
His Production Could Change.
Woods won’t be in his peak anymore, but that doesn’t mean he can’t thrive in Minnesota’s offence. The 32-year-old would offer the team a feeling of transition, particularly for new quarterback J.J. McCarthy. The past two offseasons haven’t looked promising for the squad attempting to enhance its running game. Woods, while not a running back, could contribute to the run game as a slot receiver or in special trick plays.
Aaron Jones may be their most significant addition to the running game this offseason, but Woods might also help in the backfield. Woods may shine as a run blocker, while Jones finds the ideal holes to explode through to the end zone. According to Pro Football Focus, he was an effective run-blocker while with the Rams. The experienced wideout ranked 10th in 2018 and 13th in 2019 in terms of run-blocking ability among all wide receivers.
However, Bleacher Report’s Bill Barnwell believes that the Lions should consider the veteran after losing Josh Reynolds to the Denver Broncos. This is an ideal opportunity for Woods to play in Detroit, which has a potential future after a successful season last year. Here are some potential trade options for Woods.
Potential Trade Fits for Woods
The Baltimore Ravens still need a low-cost efficient third receiver to complement Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman after Odell Beckham Jr’s departure. They were able to extend Bateman longer but he hasn’t been doing anything spectacular. Woods is elderly but he could bring some temporary comfort like how Beckham did when he was around. However, the Kansas City Chiefs are likely to investigate into the veteran.
They were able to keep Mecole Hardman on a one-year contract, but they should give Woods a lengthier agreement to see what he can achieve. It’s a high risk considering his poor productivity, but it’s a plus because Rashee Rice will miss a few games this season. Another opportunity to improve his game would most likely be with Jim Harbaugh in Los Angeles.
The Chargers’ receiving corps lacks many well-known players. This would provide Woods the opportunity to make one more professional run before retiring. Mike Williams and Keenan Allen’s absences will affect the club, but Woods has similar experience that will benefit Justin Herbert.
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