BREAKING: Patriots officially signs 26-years-old wide receiver with deal worth $4 million

Former Vikings wide receiver K.J. Osborn has agreed to a one-year contract worth $4 million with the Patriots, as reported by various sources this Sunday. Osborn’s departure from Minnesota had been anticipated for some time, especially following the re-signing of Brandon Powell and the addition of Trent Sherfield to the Vikings’ roster on a one-year deal.

With the Patriots, Osborn is expected to have ample opportunities for significant playing time given the current top receivers on the team are JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeMario Douglas, and Kendrick Bourne.

Drafted in the fifth round from Miami in 2020, Osborn proved to be a reliable WR3 for the Vikings over his four-year tenure. While he initially specialized in special teams during his rookie year, Osborn made a breakthrough in 2021 with a stat line of 50 receptions for 655 yards and 7 touchdowns.

His performance continued in 2022, amassing another 650 yards, highlighted by a standout game against the Colts where he recorded 157 yards during a notable NFL comeback. Even with Justin Jefferson sidelined for a portion of the season, Osborn’s numbers dipped slightly last year, totaling 48 catches for 540 yards and 3 touchdowns. However, he faced challenges with drops during his contract year.

Osborn, who will turn 27 this summer, is known for his consistency as a receiver, excelling in work across the middle of the field while also displaying reliable blocking skills. Described in his UFA profile as a dependable WR3, Osborn saw a mild decline in his performance last season despite the Vikings integrating rookie Jordan Addison following Adam Thielen’s absence and Jefferson’s injuries.

Primarily operating as a possession receiver within the intermediate zones, Osborn maintains an average of 11.7 yards per catch throughout his career. While not known for exceptional speed or route-running, he possesses a knack for making impactful plays and contributing in the red zone. Additionally, Osborn is noted for his abilities as a blocker, whether positioned in the slot or on the outskirts.

Heading to New England, Osborn will rejoin former Vikings teammate Jalen Reagor. The deal struck with the Patriots now grants the Vikings two third-round compensatory picks for the upcoming 2025 draft.