3 Sneaky Vikings Draft Prospects to Know
The Vikings draft prospects will be numerous by the time April arrives. The current vantage point, though, uplifts a few under-the-radar players. The shocking decision to fire Kwesi Adofo-Mensah doesn’t change the roster needs.
Few could disagree that Minnesota’s defense could use an infusion of young talent. In particular, there’s the ultra thin off-ball linebacker position to worry about, but other areas need help, too (corner, safety, defensive tackle). On offense, some help could be added at running back and at center. As a result, some names jump off the page upon considering talent in draft boards.
3 Vikings Draft Prospects
Linebacker CJ Allen, Georgia
Already, linebacker Sonny Styles has been mentioned as a fit. Does the much-hyped off-ball ‘backer get down to No. 18? If not, do the Vikings still opt for someone to slot in beside Blake Cashman?
Both of Eric Wilson and Ivan Pace Jr. appear to be on the way out. Or, at least, those outcomes are at least plausible.
Consider the assessment from Mel Kiper: “Allen is a three-down linebacker at the next level because his read-and-react skills are excellent and he can make plays in all three aspects of the defense. He has the physicality to take on blocks in the run game and the speed to chase down ball carriers once he disengages.”
Edge Rusher Akheem Mesidor, Miami
Most don’t think that edge rusher is a need. A similar thought could have been expressed with current Vikings WR Jordan Addison prior to getting scooped up in the 1st in the 2023 NFL Draft. Sometimes, folks, people inside of the NFL think about issues differently than people outside of the NFL.
The defender appears to have benefited from playing opposite of Rueben Bain Jr. Nevertheless, there’s still the reality of the eye-popping production, most notably within the 12.5 sacks alongside 17.5 tackles for loss. Could he partner with Dallas Turner — someone who is long and more slender — for the long-term to create a thunder & lightning pass-rush duo?
Consider the scouting intel: “The Canadian makes his presence felt against both the run and the pass, and he shows good bend, closing burst and power. When his initial move is thwarted, Mesidor never stops battling. He also brings some versatility, with the ability to shade inside to DT and get pressure on the interior.”
The Vikings cherish motor and versatility.
Defensive Tackle Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
A true nose tackle is to be cherished. Go ahead and reminisce about Pat Williams and Linval Joseph for recent examples from Vikings history.
MacDonald is an imposing 6’3″ and 326 pounds. Since becoming the DC, Brian Flores has shifted away from huge DTs. Is that since his scheme doesn’t make it a priority or because Minnesota has yet have a great one under Flores? MacDonald is quietly getting mentioned around Minnesota.
Being able to send a gap-eating NT onto the field makes run defense so much easier. The elite nose tackle will consistently push the center back, making life difficult for QBs and RBs. If MacDonald can be that player, then the No. 18 pick isn’t too high.
The analysis from Kiper: “He’s a force on the interior, with incredible strength and quickness for a player at his size. And McDonald is active and sniffs out the football to make plays.”
