Wide receiver Stefon Diggs has already become a very important part of the Minnesota Vikings passing attack in just two years with the team. However, 2017 could be the season that establishes Diggs as one of the top receivers in the entire NFL.
Yes, of course, Vikings fans know how special he has blossomed into during his short time with the team. Nevertheless, this could be the year that causes more people outside of Minnesota to start clicking on his YouTube highlights.
Think of Diggs having a breakout year similar to how Vikings cornerback Xavier Rhodes took huge steps in 2016 to establish himself as one of the best in the NFL at his position.
With Pat Shurmur now the Vikings’ permanent offensive coordinator, the offense will likely shift more to a West Coast style that features quicker and shorter passes to the team’s receivers. Diggs is at his best with the ball in the open field. An offense like this could lead to a big season for Minnesota’s young pass catcher.
Especially since in 2016, Diggs saw his catches per game go from 5.8 with Norv Turner calling the plays to seven per game with Shurmur in charge of the offense.
The key for him will be staying on the field. Diggs missed three games last season due to injury and he needs to remain healthy in order to keep his progression as a receiver moving upward.
If the Minnesota Vikings are going to go places, they are going to need Diggs to produce. He has yet to go over the 1,000-yard mark. 2016 saw him finish with 903 yards. His production will have to improve in order for the Viking offense to improve. There are other options for this Viking offense; however, the main star should be Stefon Diggs!
Editor’s Note: This article can also be seen in our upcoming NFL Preview Edition.