Robert Woods is a Perfect Fit for the Vikings’ 2024 Offense Plans
Even though Woods’s receiving ability has decreased, the Vikings offense can still make the necessary change without him having to play at his best.
The Vikings have known for two offseasons that they need to strengthen their running game, but despite their best efforts, they have not been able to do so, in part because of a lack of personnel.
While Woods may play a significant role in supporting the running game in 2024, Aaron Jones is the team’s greatest asset.
O’Connell usually uses 11 players (three wide receiver sets) on third down, which increases the likelihood of a pass. But the Vikings can be more successful with a changeup by running if they have receivers who are capable of blocking runs.
The ability of Woods to change the run game in 11 personnel was highlighted by Brad Spielberger of Pro Football Focus when Woods inked his four-year, $65 million extension with the Rams in 2020.
From Spielberg:
However, Woods’ skill as a run blocker is arguably what Sean McVay admires the most about him and what allowed the Rams to be so successful running the ball with 11 players:
Among wide receivers with at least 50 run-blocking snaps, Woods placed 10th in 2018 and 13th in 2019 in terms of run-blocking grade.
Places 94th and 105th, respectively, went to Brandin Cooks.
Cooper Kupp came in at positions 84 and 110, respectively.
After Jefferson’s extension, Vikings are urged to sign a $65 million Super Bowl veteran wide receiver.
By extending Justin Jefferson this week, the Minnesota Vikings cleared over $11 million in cap space, freeing up additional cash to increase the team’s chances of making the playoffs in 2024.
Ryan Heckman of The Viking Age suggests that the Vikings sign Robert Woods, a former wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams.
Woods, who is signed to a two-year, $15.3 million contract with the Houston Texans, is a trade or roster-cut candidate. The Texans may phase out Woods and save at least $5 million in cap space for the 2024 season by selecting Stefon Diggs to lead a loaded wide receivers room that includes Tank Dell and Nico Collins.
Heckman stated in an article published on June 5 that the Texans “will likely part ways with veteran Robert Woods, who, at this point in his career, is the perfect candidate for this type of job behind Jefferson and Jordan Addison.” “Vikings should be in on him whether the Texans find a trade partner or he gets released.”
Before Kevin O’Connell left to become head coach of the Vikings, Woods played for him for two seasons in Los Angeles, including their 2021 Super Bowl championship season. Woods would be a perfect fit in O’Connell’s offense given his five years of experience playing for Sean McVay.
Woods is in the latter stages of his career at the age of 32. After 40 receptions for 426 yards and a touchdown last year, his output has decreased.
Nevertheless, given his wide range of abilities and the Vikings’ objectives for the 2024 campaign, he can still succeed in his role as the team’s third wide receiver.
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