It’s Another Offensive Lineman for the Vikings with the 230th Overall Pick
Josh Frey
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The Minnesota Vikings brought in some more offensive line help earlier on Day 3 of the draft, adding Oklahoma offensive tackle Walter Rouse.
However, they could still use some additional depth at the position even with Rouse joining the fold. As a result, just a couple picks later, the Vikings have brought in another offensive lineman by selecting Michael Jurgens, a center out of Wake Forest.
Vikings Select C Michael Jurgens
Michael Jurgens spent six seasons at the collegiate level, all being with the Wake Forest Demon Deacons. He served in a reserve role throughout the first two seasons of that stint (2018 and 2019) before stepping in as Wake Forest’s starting center in 2020.
Jurgens went through some struggles as a pass protector throughout his first couple seasons as a starter, particularly in 2020. PFF graded him at just 31.1 in that department for the 2020 season, and he allowed eight pressures throughout the campaign.
However, in recent years, Jurgens has become much more polished as a prospect. He is a powerful player at 6’4″ and 311 pounds.
Jurgens actually switched over to the left guard spot in 2023, and he arguably had his best collegiate season while playing the position.
Of course, the Vikings have some uncertainty at that left guard spot without Dalton Risner being signed to a new deal. As of now, it has appeared that Blake Brandel would be the favorite to take on that starting role despite never having played a snap at the position.
Jurgens can provide some competition and depth at either left guard or center.
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.