To count down the days until Vikings rookies, quarterbacks and select veterans report to Mankato on July 23, we will reveal our ranking of the 17 most important Vikings players heading into the 2017 season. Look for the next player on our list every weekday morning at Access Vikings.
This list, created by Matt Vensel and Andrew Krammer, is not a ranking of the best players on the team, though sheer talent is obviously an essential factor. It is a ranking of the players whose upcoming season will have the biggest impact on the franchise, whether it's in 2017 or beyond.
Coming in at No. 10 on our list is receiver Laquon Treadwell.
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Laquon Treadwell cut toward the pylon and faded toward the back corner of the end zone. His leaping touchdown grab over cornerback Trae Waynes during the final Vikings practice of the offseason last month provided a glimpse into what they need from him to expand last year's limited passing game.
Our top 10 most important Vikings for this season will feature much of the retooled rushing attack, which ranked dead last in the league. But the importance of a reliable outside receiver for quarterback Sam Bradford shouldn't be overlooked, especially for this former first-round pick.
By now, Treadwell's one-catch rookie season is well documented after the Vikings made him the 23rd-overall pick a year ago. What's important moving forward is whether or not Treadwell can remain on the field and become the pesky and physical NFL receiver the Vikings envisioned.
Treadwell's health was an issue more than the Vikings, including Treadwell, let on last season. A broken thumb, hamstring and ankle injuries compounded with lingering pain Treadwell said began with the broken fibula and dislocated ankle at Ole Miss two years prior. Pushing through that frustration was another learning experience for Treadwell, whom head coach Mike Zimmer said looks "much more comfortable" than a year ago.
