The Minnesota Vikings have made a bold move to shake up their special teams unit, specifically targeting their return game. In a surprising adjustment to the bullpen hierarchy, the team has released an updated depth chart that answers lingering questions about their kickoff and punt return roles. The standout change? Undrafted free agent (UDFA) rookie Myles Price has secured both the primary kickoff returner (KR1) and punt returner (PR1) positions, a decision that signals confidence in the young receiver’s potential while sending ripples through the roster.
Myles Price Takes Center Stage
Price, who turned heads with an impressive performance throughout August, has been entrusted with a critical dual role. Naming an unproven rookie as both KR1 and PR1 is an ambitious gamble, but not without merit. The Vikings’ coaching staff appears to believe Price’s skill set—highlighted by his reliable hands and explosive speed—makes him the ideal candidate to spark a long-overdue revival in the team’s return game. Minnesota hasn’t celebrated a punt return touchdown since 2016, a drought the franchise is eager to end.
Price’s primary responsibility will be securing the football, a non-negotiable for any returner. Poor field position is far preferable to a turnover, and Price’s ability to catch cleanly and hold onto the ball through contact will be paramount. As noted in discussions on Vikings Territory, fumbling after a hard-fought defensive stop would quickly erode trust from defensive coordinator Brian Flores and his unit. However, Price’s knack for “safe explosiveness” offers hope. He rarely, if ever, fumbles, and his ability to accelerate quickly could provide the offense with favorable field position while keeping the defense off the hook.
The Isaiah Rodgers Experiment Ends
The shift to Price effectively ends speculation about cornerback Isaiah Rodgers serving as both CB2 and KR1. While Rodgers was a contender for the kickoff return role, the Vikings have opted to lean on Price’s potential instead. This move allows Rodgers to focus solely on his defensive duties, streamlining his responsibilities as the team prepares for the 2025 season.
Tai Felton’s Demotion and Adam Thielen’s Surprising Role
Price’s rise comes at the expense of Tai Felton, a speedy receiver who showed promise but struggled with ball security during the preseason. As a result, Felton has been demoted to KR3 on the depth chart. Despite this setback, Felton remains a valuable asset as a gunner on special teams, where his athleticism and potential continue to shine.
Perhaps the most eyebrow-raising detail is the designation of 35-year-old veteran Adam Thielen as the backup punt returner (PR2). Thielen, a fan favorite and one of the NFL’s most reliable receivers, has limited experience in this role. Over his 162-game career, he has recorded just six punt returns for a total of eight yards—an average of 1.3 yards per return, with a career-high of nine yards. The decision to place Thielen in this position prioritizes ball security over dynamic playmaking. As Vikings Territory aptly noted, “Just catch the ball and call it a win.” Still, Thielen’s competitive spirit and knack for defying expectations could lead to a surprising contribution if called upon.
Depth Chart Breakdown
Here’s how the Vikings’ return game hierarchy now stands:
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KR1 (Kickoff Returner 1): Myles Price
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KR2 (Kickoff Returner 2): Ty Chandler
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KR3 (Kickoff Returner 3): Tai Felton
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PR1 (Punt Returner 1): Myles Price
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PR2 (Punt Returner 2): Adam Thielen
Ty Chandler maintains his role as KR2, providing stability and experience behind Price. Felton, despite his demotion, remains in the mix and could see opportunities to contribute in other special teams capacities.
Looking Ahead: A Chance for Magic
As the Vikings prepare to face the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on Monday Night Football, all eyes will be on Price. A return touchdown—whether on a kickoff or punt—could set the tone for a strong start to the 2025 season. Price’s ability to combine safe ball-handling with explosive playmaking gives Minnesota a chance to break their return touchdown drought and energize the team. While the decision to entrust a rookie with such a pivotal role is bold, it reflects the Vikings’ willingness to take calculated risks in pursuit of a competitive edge.
The bullpen shakeup is a clear statement: Minnesota is ready to move forward with fresh faces and new energy. Whether Price can deliver the “magical” moments the team envisions remains to be seen, but the stage is set for him to make an immediate impact.