EAGAN, Minn. — In today’s NFL, the role of a run-blocking tight end often goes unnoticed, especially with the rise of athletic tight ends known for their ability to make big plays in the passing game. However, the Minnesota Vikings are making it clear that they appreciate the contributions of Josh Oliver.
Offensive coordinator Wes Phillips praised Oliver, stating, “Josh is the best blocking tight end in the league, and that’s no disrespect to anyone else. There are some good ones out there, but we’ll take Josh over anybody in this league in the role that he’s in.” This sentiment highlights the significance of Oliver’s role, especially in light of the Vikings’ attempts to strengthen their running game after a disappointing performance in 2022 during coach Kevin O’Connell’s inaugural season.
Although the running game showed only slight improvement in 2023, the recent addition of Aaron Jones has helped the Vikings create better opportunities, forcing opponents to reconsider how they defend against star receiver Justin Jefferson while managing the need to stop the run. During this transition, Oliver has played a pivotal role, especially with starting tight end T.J. Hockenson recovering from knee surgery and missing the first seven games.
Hockenson commented on Oliver’s impressive capabilities, noting, “Josh is one of those guys who, once he gets his hands on you, it’s kind of, ‘Good luck.’ He’s just a superhuman. It is incredible. It’s a lot of fun to be able to have him by our side.”
Signed to a three-year deal worth up to $21 million in 2023, Oliver’s salary cap hit is approximately $6.1 million this season, projected to increase to around $9.4 million in 2025 before he potentially enters free agency again.
Originally drafted in the third round by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2019, Oliver didn’t see much action in his rookie season and spent the entirety of 2020 on injured reserve due to a foot injury. He later traded to the Baltimore Ravens, where he spent two seasons before moving to the Vikings.
In a notable matchup against his former team, the Jaguars, Oliver is coming off a standout performance against the Indianapolis Colts, where he recorded a personal best of five catches for 58 yards and scored a touchdown for the second consecutive game. Reflecting on his recent success, Oliver stated, “I was just getting a lot of opportunities, and I was just able to take advantage of them. That’s just the way the ball was going.”
While Oliver’s reliable hands and sharp route-running add depth to the offensive scheme, his primary impact stems from his blocking skills. The Vikings sometimes believe he faces unfair penalties for holding due to the overwhelming strength he displays.
Phillips noted, “I don’t think they’re used to seeing a guy on the edge put a defensive end on his back. He’s moving humans, large men, and putting them on the ground. It’s been a big part of why we’ve been able to have some success on the ground.”