The Minnesota Vikings have signed former Jacksonville Jaguars and Baltimore Ravens tight end Josh Oliver to a three-year deal worth $21 million to kick off free agency.
A third-round pick by the Jaguars in 2019, Oliver is primarily known for his blocking and is one of the best at his position when it comes to this ability. He only has 26 career receptions, which have gone for 230 yards and two touchdowns, but the Vikings will not need his receiving abilities with fellow tight end T.J. Hockenson on the roster.
This move indicates that the team could run a lot of heavy 12 personnel sets in the second year under head coach Kevin O’Connell. These personnel sets often require two tight ends, one of which has to be a blocking one, so Oliver’s signing was likely a necessity in order for the team to properly run this scheme for the 2023 season.
In what is expected to be a quiet free agency for the team as they look to move several veteran players, this is an under-the-radar move that could have a lot of upside if it pans out.
