Key Takeaways:
– In a surprising move, Minnesota Vikings signs underdog rookie wide receiver Jeshaun Jones with a $2.84 million contract over three years.
– Jones’ contract features a $225,000 guaranteed base salary, the highest among all undrafted rookie free agents (UDFA).
– During his career at Maryland, Jones racked up impressive stats with 151 receptions, over 2,000 yards, and 14 touchdowns.
– Jones’ NFL projection is a slot receiver, with his sub-4.5 second 40-time and route-running ability as his distinctive traits.
Vikings Make Bold Move with Jeshaun Jones
The Minnesota Vikings, following their previously successful stint with undrafted linebacker Ivan Pace Jr., continue to gamble on UDFAs. This time, it’s Maryland wide receiver Jeshaun Jones who they’ve signed on a three-year, $2.84 million contract. Certainly, the most distinctive part of his contract is a $225,000 guaranteed base salary, the highest among all UDFAs. This high-risk investment comes despite Jones ranking as The Athletic Dane Brugler’s 56th-ranked wide receiver in this year’s draft class.
Jones’ Impressive College Career
Jones has an impressive track record from his six-year career (2018-23) at Maryland. He recorded 151 receptions for a total of 2,040 yards and 14 touchdowns in 48 appearances. The wide receiver was exceptional during his freshman year, tying with Stefon Diggs for the most touchdowns scored by a Maryland freshman. He managed to score touchdowns three ways during his first game.
In his senior year, Jones outdid himself with career-high stats leading Maryland in reception, receiving yards, and yards per game. According to digital analysts, Jones translates best as a slot receiver. His sub-4.5 second 40-time and superb route-running prowess being his greatest assets.
However, Jones is also well known for his body control issues and difficulties securing catches outside his frame down-field and around the boundary. His contribution to the team will likely begin as a valued practice squad/training camp body.
Battle for Vikings WR3 Slot
At the Vikings’ camp, a vigorous competition is in progress for the No. 3 wide receiver role in the offense. The journey for Jones to land this job is filled with a broad spectrum of competitors. Wide receivers such as Jordan Addison, Brandon Powell, Jalen Nailor, and Trent Sherfield, are the current front-runners for the WR3 role.
Rookie Jeshaun Jones now finds himself in an intense race alongside other promising talents including Lucky Jackson, Thayer Thomas, Malik Knowles, Ty James, N’Keal Harry, and Devron Harper.
As OTAs proceed, it’ll be intriguing to observe how the Vikings’ gamble with Jones will pan out. Given his current contract, the Vikings obviously see potential in Jones, who has attracted the attention of reputable wide receivers coach Keenan McCardell. While Jones’s road to securing a prominent role in the Vikings may be long and full of competition, his potential and unique abilities may give him an edge over his opponents.