New Vikings TE Josh Oliver has been worth every penny in 2023

Through four games, Oliver has played just 99 of the Vikings' 253 offensive snaps (39 percent). But when he's in the game, he almost serves as a sixth offensive lineman in Kevin O'Connell's offense. In addition to his run blocking, Oliver hasn't allowed a pressure in 18 pass blocking snaps.

He also has seven catches for 49 yards and a touchdown, putting him on pace for a 30-208-4 receiving line. His career highs as a receiver, set last year with the Ravens, are 14 catches, 149 yards, and two scores.

"It’s not a great nickname, but I started calling him the ‘Sears Tower,’ because I feel like when I throw to him, I’m throwing to the Sears Tower running across the field," Kirk Cousins said of Oliver this week. "And it’s not even the Sears Tower anymore, it’s the Willis Tower, but the nickname still works. It hasn’t truly caught on. I don’t think there’s many guys in the locker room calling him that. But I feel like that sums it up. He’s a big target, a friendly target, great athleticism and obviously a great blocker."

Oliver's presence as a true in-line tight end allows Hockenson to play in the slot when both are on the field together. He's an extremely valuable chess piece for O'Connell because he can run block, he can pass block, and he can run routes and catch the football. Even though he plays just about 40 percent of the time, Oliver is a critical part of what the Vikings want to do on offense.