Viktor
Well-known member
- Mar 19, 2019
- 2,552
- 0
The Vikings added 12 players to the roster through the 2019 NFL Draft, the most ever by Minnesota in a seven-round draft.
Which of these fresh faces will step in and contribute in their first season? ESPN’s Mel Kiper, Jr., recently delved into draft selections around the league and said that “several first-round picks will be guaranteed starters when training camp begins.” He wrote:
By now hopefully you’ve seen my draft grades for all 32 teams, and now let’s evaluate the rookies I think will make an early impact, from each day of the draft. This is more about having a clear role, not coming in and dominating from the outset.
Kiper highlighted five first-round draft picks, including center Garrett Bradbury, whom the Vikings snagged 18th overall.
Yes, offensive linemen picked in the first round are supposed to start on Day 1 with their new teams. But I want to highlight Bradbury here because of the way he instantly makes the Vikings better. Quarterback Kirk Cousins was just OK last season, but it was the Minnesota running game that disappointed most, as its 93.3 yards per game ranked 30th in the league.
Kiper said he wouldn’t be surprised if “the athletic Bradbury” lined up at center and Pat Elflein, who has played center the past two seasons, slid to guard.
With an improved running game, Cousins will be improved, too. And in Year 2 of his three-year deal, the offense must be more complete for the Vikings to get back to the playoffs.
According to Kiper, other first-rounders who will make an immediate impact are Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver, Broncos tight end Noah Fant, Raiders running back Josh Jacobs and Giants cornerback Deandre Baker. The Vikings will see Fant in Week 11, Jacobs in Week 3 and Baker in Week 5.
Kiper pointed out that Baker started 35 games at Georgia.
He is the most pro-ready of the top group of cornerbacks in this class, and he can be a legitimate No. 1 corner. He’s going to play early and often for a New York defense that allowed 61 receptions of at least 20 yards last season, the second-most such passes in the league.
Kiper then highlighted five players from Rounds 2-3 and five from Rounds 4-7 who will have an early role with their respective teams. To see the entire list, click here.