MADISON, WISCONSIN - SEPTEMBER 20: Shaleak Knotts #4 of the Maryland Terrapins after a win over the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium on September 20, 2025 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images) | Getty Images Among a balanced wide receiver room, Shaleak Knotts was Maryland football’s breakout star in 2025. While Knotts wasn’t selected in the NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings signed the Terps’ top weapon just minutes after the conclusion of the three-day event.Knotts hauled in 161 receiving yards as a junior, but the departure of several key receivers cleared the path for him to become Malik Washington’s go-to target.
That connection was evident right away — Knotts notched at least 50 receiving yards and a touchdown in each of Maryland’s first four games.The former four-star recruit finished as Maryland’s leader in receiving yards (717) and touchdowns (6), highlighted by an eight-reception, 139-receiving yard performance to close out the season. Knotts was Washington’s favorite deep threat, averaging 16.3 yards per reception. His 62-yard touchdown against Wisconsin fueled Maryland to its lone Big Ten win.He joins former Terps Tai Felton and Jeshaun Jones on the Vikings roster.
Knotts adds depth to a wide receiver group that finished with the third-fewest receiving yards in the NFL, lacking a clear third target behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Be sure to keep track of all Maryland post-draft signings on the Testudo Times UFA tracker.