Sweat and grit have paid off for a pair of Minnesota Vikings, as wide receiver Jordan Addison and linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. blasted their way onto the Pro Football Writers of America's All-Rookie team. The dynamic duo represented the best of new blood in the NFL, with Addison snagging catches and Pace Jr. crushing tackles throughout an impressive first season.
Former USC standout Addison, taken 23rd overall in the draft, dominated the charts with 70 receptions for a whopping 911 yards and hitting pay dirt 10 times, as reported by CBS News Minnesota. Despite having to gel with backup quarterbacks for the bulk of the season, Addison shot past several receivers taken earlier in the draft. Playing without the starting quarterback didn't stop him from becoming a key playmaker for the Vikings.
On the defensive side, Ivan Pace Jr.'s journey to the All-Rookie team was a nod to undrafted players everywhere. According to Vikings Official Team Website, the Cincinnati product hammered the opposition with 102 total tackles, an interception, a forced fumble, and 2.5 sacks. The man was a human obstacle, starting 11 games and appearing in all 17.
Throwing down outstanding numbers, Addison's performance was particularly stellar during October. "Addison's five touchdown catches that month tied for the most across the NFL" and earned him NFL Offensive Rookie of the Month, according to details from Vikings Official Team Website.
Mirroring Addison's impact, Pace became the only undrafted free agent to land on the PFWA's all-star rookie lineup, outperforming many of his drafted counterparts. Pace, taking the reins with a "green dot" helmet, called plays for the defense with veteran poise, even when key player Jordan Hicks was sidelined. His standout performance included a career-high 13 tackles against the Raiders, sealing a tight 3-0 victory with a decisive late-game interception, all while manning the middle of the field like a seasoned commander.
The duo's achievements underscore a remarkable rookie year for the Vikings, further etching their names in the team's lore. Addison's ten touchdowns tied for second in the franchise's rookie record, sharing company with the likes of Sammy White. Meanwhile, Vikings fans will surely keep tracking Pace's trajectory, given his explosive start in professional football, which has set the bar for any undrafted free agent looking to make an impact.
