Free agent WR Dede Westbrook weighing offers

After spending the 2021 season in Minnesota, the Vikings invited Westbrook back for a second campaign. The receiver decided to remain unsigned as he pursued other opportunities, but it’s been more than a month since he declined the Vikings deal. At the time, it was assumed the 28-year-old didn’t want to fight for snaps with recent Day 3 selections like Ihmir Smith-Marsette and Jalen Nailor. At this point, considering his recent (lack of) production and the fact he’s unsigned in July, there’s a good chance that Westbrook will have to fight for a roster spot no matter where he lands.

At one point, Westbrook looked the part of a reliable pass-catcher during his stint with the Jaguars. The former fourth-round pick averaged 66 receptions, 688 receiving yards, and four touchdowns between the 2018 and 2019 seasons. However, he found himself buried on the depth chart in 2020 before an ACL injury ended his season prematurely. Westbrook had to settle for a one-year deal from the Vikings last offseason, and he finished the season with 10 receptions and 68 yards in 15 games. The veteran did see a role on special teams, collecting 183 yards on his 22 punt returns (8.3 yards per attempt).

The Vikings liked Westbrook enough to have him back, but it’s uncertain if they’d still have interest in the receiver. The Vikings have since signed Albert Wilson to compete for a role, although the veteran’s deal is non-guaranteed, so he wouldn’t necessarily prevent the organization from adding Westbrook. As mentioned, Westbrook would likely be competing for a spot as the fourth receiver behind Justin Jefferson, Adam Thielen, and K.J. Osborn.

Westbrook was also connected to the Patriots earlier this offseason. However, the Patriots have since added DeVante Parker via trade and Tyquan Thornton via the draft, and it’s hard to see the likes of Jakobi Meyers, Kendrick Bourne, or Nelson Agholor losing their roster spots. The Seahawks, 49ers, and Bengals all expressed interest in Westbrook during the 2021 offseason.