NFL
The NFL’s Most Underappreciated Receiver
Few NFL receivers had the numbers that Minnesota Vikings wideout Adam Thielen put up in 2017. Theilen had 91 receptions for 1,276 yards, adding four TDs. It’s safe to say that the former Minnesota State receiver has made fantasy teams very happy.
Believe it or not, Thielen was a top eight PPR fantasy receiver in 2017. So why does Stefon Diggs get touted as “the guy”? Why not Thielen? You’d be hard-pressed to find another candidate for the most underappreciated receiver.
Slot Receiver Stigma
The slot receiver has been underappreciated for what seems like forever now. Their short build makes them seem like one-trick ponies. Receivers in the slot have the advantage on not getting bumped by defensive backs to the same frequency as outside receivers.
However, the difference between Thielen and other slot receivers is that few move all over the field to the frequency of the Vikings receiver. According to PFF, Thielen had the highest passer rating out of all receivers on both comeback routes, and hitches—routes that are the bread and butter of outside receivers. That is impressive in its own right.
One-Year Wonder
We’ve seen our fair share of guys who have a good year and then never return to form again. Some of those names include: Peyton Hillis (2010), Robert Griffin III (2012), and who can forget the recent Super Bowl MVP Nick Foles and his 27-2 TD-Int ratio in 2013? It may seem like Thielen will end up in this boat in 2018 with such huge shoes to fill.
However, Thielen has motivation—the Lombardi trophy. After being booted out of the Divisional Round 38-7 by the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, Thielen has a chip on his shoulder going into 2018.
Consistency
After a huge year, Vikings fans are hoping Thielen can have some of that same success in 2018. Thielen has looked incredible in camp and now has the ever-talented Kirk Cousins throwing him the rock, along with Dalvin Cook back to keep some guys in the box.
Thielen understands the importance of 2018, being that he only has two years left on his contract. Look for the “most underappreciated receiver” to quietly put together another fantastic season.
