Vikings Add Some Secondary Help with the 108th Pick in the 2024 NFL Draft
Coming into the 2024 NFL Draft, the Vikings needed to add some extra muscle and size to their cornerback room.
They did exactly that with their third selection of this draft, the 108th overall pick, by adding Oregon cornerback Khyree Jackson.
Vikings Select CB Khyree Jackson
Jackson has spent time in a number of different programs throughout his collegiate career. He started out at a couple junior colleges before getting his first FBS shot with Alabama in 2021. However, he spent the majority of his time with the Crimson Tide as a reserve player, totaling 14 tackles, a tackle for loss, and a pair of passes defended in two seasons.
Then, in 2023, Jackson transferred to Oregon, allowing him to take on more of a starting role. In 12 games with the Ducks, the cornerback put together 34 tackles, five tackles for loss, two sacks, seven passes defended, and three interceptions.
Jackson is a powerful presence on the boundary, thriving in man coverage. In man, he was targeted 18 times and allowed just eight receptions for 96 yards and zero touchdowns. He also snatched one of his interceptions in man.
The Vikings added Shaq Griffin in free agency, so it seems that Brian Flores wants to utilize a bit more man coverage this season after Minnesota played almost exclusively in zone during 2023.
Jackson will turn 25 years old in August. The Vikings also brought him in on a top 30 visit prior to the draft.
Editor’s Note: Statistics for this article were found via Pro Football Focus.
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Josh Frey is a Class of 2020 graduate of The College of Idaho and managing editor of PurplePTSD.com. When he’s not writing about the NFL, Josh enjoys running, gaming, or rooting for the Milwaukee Brewers and Bucks. Check out his Twitter account: @Freyed_Chicken.