Patriots add a veteran wide receiver to their roster
The New England Patriots have found a veteran wide receiver. Former Minnesota Viking K.J. Osborn has agreed to a deal with the Patriots, according to Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network. Mike Reiss of ESPN reported that it is a one-year deal.
Osborn has spent the last three seasons with the Vikings, accumulating 1,845 yards on 158 catches (11.8 yards per reception) and 15 touchdowns. This past season, he lined up as the third receiving option behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison.
The 26-year-old provides some upside if he takes on a larger role with the Patriots. His 1,845 yards are more than any Patriot has had during the last three seasons. This speaks to the lack of success and depth New England has had with the wide receivers recently.
Quarterback Jacoby Brissett signed with the Patriots and Mac Jones has been traded as the team prepares to presumably draft a rookie signal caller with the third overall pick. Surrounding the rookie with reliable veteran receivers could go a long way to helping them be successful.
“Osborn is a good No. 3 wide receiver and a really good locker room guy. Teammates love him. He turns 27 soon. He has played both outside and in the slot.” Chad Graff of The Athletic posted on X.
The 5-foot-11, 203-pound Osborn is a good start, but the Patriots should look to add another wide receiver. The other veterans on their depth chart are Kendrick Bourne, who is coming off a torn ACL, JuJu Smith-Schuster who has also battled knee issues, and Jalen Reagor, who has struggled with consistency.
One name out there that Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt has a history with is Odell Beckham Jr. The three-time Pro Bowler and Osborn would bring stability to the position.
