Viktor
Well-known member
- Mar 19, 2019
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The predicted pick: Gregory Rousseau, Edge Rusher, Miami
Minnesota embraced a rebuild last season whether they recognized it or not. The cornerback position was overhauled and Everson Griffen [departed]. I would expect the youth movement to continue as they look to replace Griffen with Gregory Rousseau.
Click here for Edwards' full mock draft.
The Ringer's Danny Kelly
Jan. 31, 2021
The predicted pick: Gregory Rousseau, Edge Rusher, Miami
The Vikings have a lot of work to do on what was an uncharacteristically bad defense in 2020, and adding more pass-rushing talent up front is at the top of the list. Rousseau is an athletic and productive edge prospect with extraordinary length and limitless upside, and he'd make things tough for opposing offensive lines when lined up opposite Danielle Hunter.
Click here for Kelly's full mock draft.
Nate Davis of USA TODAY
Jan. 28, 2021
The predicted pick: Gregory Rousseau, Edge Rusher, Miami
The Vikes had an NFC-low 23 sacks in 2020, [with Head Coach] Mike Zimmer saying of his defense: "worst one I've ever had." Rousseau, who's only 20, had 15.5 sacks in 2019, winning ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year honors before opting out in 2020. His 6-7 frame also makes him a threat to bat down balls when he can't get to the quarterback. He and Danielle Hunter could form quite a combo in a division ruled by Aaron Rodgers.
Click here for Davis' full mock draft.
Jordan Reid of The Draft Network
Jan. 28, 2021
The predicted pick: Christian Barmore, Defensive Tackle, Alabama
With many needs, the Vikings have to find a way to become better in the trenches, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Only registering 23 sacks last season, tied for the third-lowest mark in team history, there should be a gold star beside the defensive line on the depth chart to mark the importance of collecting talent for that group during the offseason. A penetrating 3-technique is vital in Mike Zimmer's defense. In previous seasons, he's had players such as Shariff Floyd and Sheldon Richardson, but the position has been a sore spot since Richardson's departure to Cleveland.
Click here for Reid's full mock draft.
Joe Marino of The Draft Network
Feb. 4, 2021
The predicted pick: Kwity Paye, Edge Rusher, Michigan
Minnesota is in a weird spot because while there is stability, this is also a team in transition at so many places. When I evaluate the roster, I see plenty of holes and a good bit of young talent that can provide answers. But where I start to have the most concern is at the defensive line, where Minnesota once had one of the best groups in the league. Now, it's Danielle Hunter and a bunch of rotational options. Paye has room to grow but has immense physical gifts in terms of size and athleticism. He could pair with Hunter to provide Minnesota with a dynamic pair of edge rushers.
Click here for Marino's full mock draft.
Kyle Crabbs of The Draft Network
Feb. 7, 2021
TRADE: Crabbs has Minnesota trading down to No. 21, with Indianapolis moving up to No. 14. The Vikings added No. 84 overall (third round) and a 2022 fourth-round pick in this deal.
The predicted pick at No. 21: Christian Darrisaw, T, Virginia Tech
Go ahead, Vikings fans. Pinch yourselves. This really happened. Y'all got the trade down that stocks up extra picks and then still managed to see Christian Darrisaw fall into your lap. Darrisaw would allow Minnesota to begin to brace for a transition away from Riley Reiff, who is entering into the final year of his contract, will be 33 years old this season, and is owed nearly $12M in new cash.
Click here for Crabb's full mock draft.
Luke Easterling of Draft Wire
Feb. 8, 2021
The predicted pick: Gregory Rousseau, Edge Rusher, Miami
Click here for Easterling's full mock draft.