Atlanta Falcons Sign Former Vikings and Patriots Starter K.J. Osborn for WR Depth
The Atlanta Falcons have added to their wide receiver depth by signing K.J. Osborn, a former starter for both the Minnesota Vikings and the New England Patriots, to their practice squad, according to team reporter Terrin Waack.
This move comes after the Falcons secured a hard-fought win against the New Orleans Saints, employing an unconventional strategy with more three-tight-end sets than any team has used since 2016. With top wide receiver Drake London sidelined, the Falcons relied heavily on the offensive line, with Darnell Mooney and David Sills V rotating as the sole wideout.
While the strategy worked for the win, the Falcons are hoping they won’t have to rely on such drastic measures going forward, and the signing of Osborn provides added depth at the position.
Osborn, a fifth-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Vikings, played four seasons in Minnesota, starting 30 games and developing a strong connection with quarterback Kirk Cousins. He had solid production, including back-to-back 650+ yard seasons in 2022 and 2023, and totaled 15 touchdowns during his time in Minnesota.
After becoming a free agent, Osborn briefly signed with the New England Patriots before being released, playing eight games and starting four. He was then picked up by the Washington Commanders but didn’t register a catch in his brief time there.
A season ago, Osborn recorded 48 catches for 540 yards and three touchdowns with Cousins, which makes him a familiar option for the Falcons as they move forward with their starting quarterback.
With London’s return from a strained PCL uncertain and week-to-week, the Falcons hope Osborn can provide a boost. Dylan Drummond, who was elevated from the practice squad for the Saints game, had three catches for 18 yards in the win. Meanwhile, Casey Washington has been largely inactive, playing only eight snaps since Week 5.
Osborn’s familiarity with the Falcons’ quarterback and his previous experience in the NFL make him a low-risk addition who could challenge for playing time over the remaining six games of the season.
No Comment! Be the first one.