Former Michigan State WR Jalen Nailor shines in Vikings preseason game

Football season is officially upon us. We may have a few more weeks to wait for the start of college football season, but the NFL welcomed all football fans back this past week with their first week of preseason games.

One former Michigan State wide receiver who had their first game on Saturday is Jalen Nailor with the Minnesota Vikings. Nailor is entering his third season with the Vikings and is looking to earn an increased role this season, and if this first preseason game is any indicator he may be well on his way to accomplishing that.

The Vikings took home the win on Saturday against the Las Vegas Raiders 24-23, and Nailor got going early for their offense. Nailor had three receptions from four targets for 63 yards. His longest reception of the night was this 26-yard completion on the first drive of the game.

Nailor is yet to see his career take off with the Vikings so far. Through his first two seasons, Nailor only has 12 catches for 208 yards and one touchdown. But this first preseason game may just be a sign for what’s to come this season.

With former Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins moving on from Minnesota, that means there’s opportunities for every receiver to step up and become a top target for the new Vikings quarterback. Who the new quarterback will be is yet to be seen, but Nailor has a chance to work closely with them and form a great connection on the field.

Funny enough, the quarterback of the future for the Vikings is likely Michigan’s JJ McCarthy who was selected in the first round of this year’s NFL draft by the Vikings. But hey, it’s the NFL now, so who cares about college rivalries. If Nailor needs to catch passes from a Wolverine to make it in the league then why would I say no to that.

Nailor’s next game with the Vikings is Aug. 17 against the Cleveland Browns. Look for him to have an even better game now that he’s got his feet wet this preseason.