Vikings' Jordan Addison nominated for Rookie of the Week after 2-TD performance against 49ers
MINNEAPOLIS — Rookie wide receiver Jordan Addison has a heavy burden on his shoulders after star Justin Jefferson went on injured reserve.
On Monday night, he showed he's more than capable of carrying it — and he did it against one of the best defenses in the league.
Addison had seven catches for 123 yards and two touchdowns in the 22-17 win over the San Francisco 49ers. His performance has earned him a nomination for Rookie of the Week.
The rookie's game actually got off to a rough start. On the Vikings' first drive, he was outmuscled by 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward, who ripped a Kirk Cousins pass out of Addison's hands for an interception.
WATCH: Ethan Glynn, Justin Jefferson share special moment on sideline before Vikings' win over 49ers
Addison got his revenge, though — and then some. After the Vikings' defense forced a fumble, the offense drove 89 yards down the field and Cousins hit Addison for a 20-yard touchdown.
True vengeance, however, would come later in the game. With 16 seconds left in the half, Cousins took a chance on a well-covered Addison down the field. It looked like Ward had his second interception secured, but Addison found his strength, stole the ball and housed it for his second touchdown.
It was a quieter second half for Addison, with just 28 yards gained, but he also drew two big penalties and missed some time with cramps.
Through seven games, Addison has 29 catches for 400 yards and six touchdowns. Not only is that tied for the second-most receiving TDs in the league, according to the Vikings, it ties the NFL record for most TDs through a rookie's first seven games.
Addison's six receiving TDs ties the NFL rookie record for most through a player's first seven games (since 1970). https://t.co/z8V9IR5D4r pic.twitter.com/zV13lEFRJw
— Vikings Communications (@VikingsPR) October 24, 2023
With Jefferson missing at least two more games, the Vikings will need Addison to continue his strong play. Even after Jefferson returns, Addison is clearly going to be a big part of this offense.
Fans can vote for Addison as Rookie of the Week on the NFL website. Here are the other candidates:
- Los Angeles Rams WR Puka Nacua: 154 yards
- New York Giants CB Deonte Banks: 1 interception, 7 tackles, 1 pass defended
- Chicago Bears QB Tyson Bagent: 162 passing yards, 1 touchdown, 72% completion percentage
- Detroit Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs: 126 total yards, 1 touchdown
- Indianapolis Colts WR Josh Downs: 125 yards, 1 touchdown