K.J. Osborn has reportedly agreed to join the New England Patriots as a free agent, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
K.J. Osborn was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the fifth round (No. 176 overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft. Prior to that, he played college football for Buffalo before transferring to Miami for his final season. His performance at the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine helped solidify his draft position, where he ranked as the third most athletic wide receiver in the draft.
Osborn stands at 5 feet 11.5 inches tall and weighs 203 pounds. He recorded a 4.48-second 40-yard dash at the combine, showcasing decent but not exceptional speed.
K.J. Osborn initially served as the primary kickoff returner, occasional punt returner, and a special teams core player for the Minnesota Vikings during his rookie season, playing no offensive snaps. However, he transitioned into a significant offensive contributor in his second year, averaging 53 receptions, 615 yards, and five touchdowns over the past three seasons. These stats would have led the 2023 New England Patriots in receptions and ranked second in yards and touchdowns.
In New England, Osborn joins a wide receiver group consisting of nine players currently under contract for the 2024 season. Alongside him are Kendrick Bourne, DeMario Douglas, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Tyquan Thornton, Kayshon Boutte, Jalen Reagor, T.J. Luther, and Kawaan Baker. Notably, Osborn and Reagor were teammates during their time in Minnesota. The Patriots are expected to continue bolstering their wide receiver corps with additional talent before the start of training camp.
