Dede Westbrook is betting on himself and passing on an opportunity to return to the Minnesota Vikings.
The receiver/return specialist visited the team for a workout on Tuesday, and things obviously went well considering he was offered a contract on the same day, per the Pioneer Press’ Chris Tomasson.
It was noted that other teams were interested in Westbrook’s services ahead of his arrival in Minnesota. According to Tomasson, the 28-year-old veteran wideout turned down the offer from the Vikings, which paved the way for the team to sign Albert Wilson to a one-year deal.
It’s unlikely Westbrook would have made the trip if he wasn’t at least interested in returning to Minnesota. Perhaps it was a contractual reason for his decision to turn down the Vikings. One also has to wonder if he wanted more work as a receiver, along with his usual return duties.
It could have also been as simple as him just testing the market and choosing the best possible situation.
The Vikings were clearly ready to move on a veteran receiver right away instead of waiting to sign someone. It didn’t take them long to put pen to paper on a deal with Wilson.
Westbrook returned 22 punts for 183 yards in 2021 with the team, along with catching 10 passes for 68 yards.
Considering the incredible depth at the skilled positions, this Vikings team isn’t short on options to replace him.
