It Looks Like Kwesi Picked Up a Couple 6ths
Much of the current focus is on the 2022 draft. Indeed, the mock drafts have been abundant, so there has been no shortage of speculation about how the Vikings may look to improve their roster with their draft picks. The upcoming rookie talent infusion is reason for excitement, but we shouldn’t overlook the impact of free agency on next season’s draft.
The NFL has a system in place to compensate teams who lose notable free agents. There is a somewhat enigmatic formula that rewards teams to help offset losing a strong contributor. Because the Vikings lost Xavier Woods and Mason Cole, a couple 2023 6th rounders appear to be in play.
Late-round picks – despite what Rick Spielman may have taught you – aren’t the be-all, end-all. Nevertheless, it’s a good thing when a team can fill out their depth with rookies. Let’s not forget that the team has gotten strong contributions from depth players over the past decade. Getting more chances to bring in talent – even at the end of the draft – is a good thing.
An overlooked way these picks can help is in trades. The more assets one has, the more options are available for a trade. Sometimes, all it takes is a late-rounder tossed onto the pile to make an offer more appealing.
We should also remember that the work in free agency isn’t done yet. Following the draft, the Vikings will be able to sign some FAs without having their comp draft picks cancelled out. Recently, there has been some chatter about high-end players who could make a difference for Minnesota. Fans should thus keep an eye on things post-draft. I’ve got my money on Kareem Jackson and Bryce Callahan playing for Minnesota in 2022.
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