The Pro Football Writers of America announced its All-NFL, All-NFC, All-AFC, and All-Rookie teams for the 2023
season this week. Three Vikings players have been recognized for their achievements. Outside linebacker Danielle
Hunter was named to the All-NFC team, while wide receiver Jordan Addison and linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. were
chosen for the All-Rookie team.
The two wide receivers selected for the All-Rookie team are Addison and Puka Nacua of the Rams. This year,
Addison led the rookie receivers with eleven touchdown catches and placed third among all rookies in receiving
yards (behind Rashee Rice of KC and Nacua). The rookie season was excellent for the 23rd overall pick, who seems to
have a promising future.
The fact that Pace was not drafted makes his selection to the All-Rookie team all the more remarkable. Along with
Byron Young of the Rams (a third-round pick) and Jack Campbell of the Lions (selected 18th overall), he is one of
three linebackers on the squad. As a rookie, Pace played more than 700 defensive snaps and led all first-year off-ball
linebackers in the majority of stats, such as tackles, pressures, sacks, and PFF grade. He appears to be a long-term
difference-maker for the Vikings defense.
The two OLBs on the All-NFC team are Micah Parsons of the Cowboys and Hunter. With 16.5 sacks, 23 total tackles
for loss, and four forced fumbles in 2023, Hunter had a career year. He is currently a free agent without restrictions.
