The Picks Are In!

For a Minnesota Vikings fan, last night was a very good night. The team entered the first night of the 2024 NFL Draft with the #11 and #23 picks as well as a giant need at quarterback. Through most of the long build-up to the draft, Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy had become the target of my quarterback affection. His intangibles, winning history, and excellent passing traits caught my attention. At a remarkably youthful 21 years, his best quarterback days are ahead of him. For months, I’ve liked McCarthy best. As it became clear that Kevin O’Connell and the Vikings shot-callers preferred Drake Maye, I hoped that the North Carolina quarterback would become the team’s quarterback of the future. It sounds like they really tried to make it happen. I saw a rumor that the Vikings offered three 1s, a 2, and a 3 to the New England Patriots for the #3 pick. No go. I’m not sure you can reasonably offer much more than that to move up eight spots. 

Drake Maye’s gone. The Patriots grabbed at #3. He’ll have a tough time with a rough team. Now what? In my mind it was always J.J. McCarthy. Trade up? Wait? At #11, there was a seven-pick wait. The Vikings decided to wait? It appeared to work until the draft hit #10.

Earlier this week, I was walking down the hallway at work, thinking about the draft. I was suddenly hit by the possibility that J.J. McCarthy is available with only the New York Jets at #10 in the Vikings way. I thought of the possibility of the damn dirty Jets calling the Vikings and telling the damn dirty lie that teams are lining up for their pick. In order to secure McCarthy, the Vikings would have to hand over picks to move up one spot. Are you kidding me? 

The Vikings insured themselves of securing McCarthy by paying the Jets ransom. 

The deal:

Vikings get:

1(10)

6(203)

Jets get:

1(11)

4(129)

5(157)

When I thought about this scenario earlier this week, I thought that it might cost ONLY a fourth round pick to move up one single pick. Oh well. In nearly every pre-draft scenario, I had the Vikings selecting Maye or McCaffrey in the top-10 at the expense of #11 and #23 and often their 2025 first round pick. 

The Vikings still had that #23 pick. Until they didn’t. Just as I was growing accustomed to J. J. McCarthy being a Viking, they were on the clock. Instead of the Jacksonville Jaguars at #17, it was the Vikings. Another trade. 

The deal:

Vikings get:

1(17)

Jaguars get:

1(23)

4(167)

2025 3rd

2025 4th

That’s a steep price to move up six spots. Sometimes you have to forget about the picks in a trade like this and think about the player. The Vikings gave up those four picks for Alabama edge rusher Dallas Turner. Nearly every pre-draft mock, thought, whatever had Turner as the first defensive player selected. It was difficult to imagine him being available after the 10th pick. 

The Minnesota Vikings first round haul:

J.J. McCarthy

Dallas Turner

Quarterback of the Future (maybe present)

Elite Pass Rusher

That’s a fine start. 

Final Flea Flicker Mock Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft is tonight. In honor of the great event, here’s a final mock draft. 

The Minnesota Vikings must come out of the first round with a candidate to be their next quarterback of the future. I believe that Kevin O’Connell, Josh McCown, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, and the rest of the team’s shot-callers prefer North Carolina’s Drake Maye. Personally, I’m partial to Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy but I’m just a slappy on a couch. The Vikings have significant draft capital. If they choose to spend enough of it, I believe that they can pry the #3 from the Patriots and bring Maye to Minnesota. Will they spend it? That’s the big question. The answer will come tonight. For this final mock draft, the Patriots do not accept what is offered and the Vikings turn to McCarthy. 

The Vikings trade #11 and #23 to the Chargers for #5. In reality, there’s probably a future pick involved to balance things. For this fake trade, only this year’s first round picks are significant. 

1. Chicago Bears (via Carolina): Caleb Williams, QB, USC

2. Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

3. New England Patriots: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

4. Arizona Cardinals: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

5. Minnesota Vikings (via LA Chargers): J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

6. New York Giants: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

7. Tennessee Titans: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

8. Atlanta Falcons: Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

9. Chicago Bears: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

10. New York Jets: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

11. Los Angeles Chargers (via Minnesota): Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

12. Denver Broncos: Bo Nix, QB, Oregon

13. Las Vegas Raiders: Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington

14. New Orleans Saints: JC Latham, OT, Alabama

15. Indianapolis Colts: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

16. Seattle Seahawks: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State

17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

18. Cincinnati Bengals: Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

19. Los Angeles Rams: Liatu Latu, Edge, UCLA

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

21. Miami Dolphins: Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

22. Philadelphia Eagles: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

23. Los Angeles Chargers (via Minnesota): Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

24. Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

25. Green Bay Packers: Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Chop Robinson, Edge, Penn State

27. Arizona Cardinals (via Houston): Darius Robinson, Edge, Missouri

28. Buffalo Bills: Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

29. Detroit Lions: Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

30. Baltimore Ravens: Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona

31. San Francisco 49ers: Zach Frazier, C, West Virginia

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia

It’s finally time for the REAL draft. In the REAL one, I expect a team looking for a QB to trade into the first round for Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. 

What If?

What if the Minnesota Vikings didn’t need a quarterback? With two first round picks, that’s a dreamy proposition.

Here’s a seven-round mock draft, if the Vikings didn’t need a quarterback.

1(11). Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

1(23). Chop Robinson, Edge, Penn State

4(108). Cam Hart, CB, Notre Dame

4(129). Jacob Cowing, WR, Arizona

5(157). Zak Zinter, G, Michigan

5(167). Jordan Jefferson, DT, LSU

6(177). Kimani Vidal, RB, Troy

7(230). Anim Dankwah, OT, Howard

7(232). AJ Barner, TE, Michigan

Not picking on Day 2 is, and will be, a problem. If the Vikings still had their second round pick, they wouldn’t have that second first round pick. 

As for the “What if” picks, Byron Murphy II and Chop Robinson would look so beautiful in purple. They might be my two favorite defensive players in the entire draft. Grabbing both of those players eases the pain of passing on a first round corner. Getting Cam Hart in the fourth further eases that pain. 

This fake draft feels defensive-centric. That’s mostly because the first three picks are on that side of the ball. The Vikings defense needs an influx of defensive talent. They can’t solely rely on the scheming of Brian Flores. This draft actually leans toward the offense in numbers - 5:4. Zak Zinter is the only one of the five offensive players that probably projects as an eventual starter. 

Mock drafts are a fun way to become familiar with the players. They can also lead to draft crushes. A couple immediately come to mind. I developed a special fondness for George Kittle in 2017 and Karl Brooks last year. I didn’t think either would make it past the fourth round. I was constantly scheming ways for the Vikings to get Kittle as early as the third round. I happily grabbed Brooks in the fourth round of nearly every mock draft. I was stunned when the 49ers selected Kittle in the fifth round and the Packers selected Brooks in the sixth round. Kittle has proved that he is, and was, a first round talent. The fifth round? That was insane. It’s early for Brooks but he had a nice rookie season for the Packers. All of this is to say that mock drafts are fun but the ranking/slotting of players is nothing like that of the teams. There’s no agreement between the amateur drafters and the professionals. Hell, there’s few agreements between the professionals. 

This draft is a good time for the Vikings to need a quarterback. There are arguably four with potential to be special. The Vikings aren’t currently in position to grab one of the four. At #11, they are close and they have the draft capital to get closer. As important, the team’s shot-callers have repeatedly expressed a willingness to spend what it might take to get where they need to get. Still, they need to find a team willing to trade. Unfortunately, the move up to get the quarterback will require the picks that are needed to boost the talent on the defense. Quarterback is too damn important. If you don’t have one, you have to get one. Everything else is secondary. If the Vikings are successful in their attempts to get that quarterback, they’ll probably be left with seven Day 3 picks to supplement the rest of the team. Seven is a nice total. Day 3 isn’t the best day to find impact players. Kittle and Brooks were Day 3 picks. Gold can be found in those rounds. The Vikings defense needs some immediate impact players. I figure they need a couple defensive linemen, at least one corner, an edge rusher, and maybe some linebacker depth. That would take five of those seven picks. The Vikings have offensive needs beyond that quarterback. They need immediate help on the interior offensive line and all-around depth. Oh boy, so many needs and so few picks. At least, there’s the undrafted free agents. With Ivan Pace Jr., Najee Thompson, and perhaps Andre Carter, the Vikings did well in that market last year. They could use another undrafted windfall. 

One more day. 

Top 10 Minnesota Vikings First Round PIcks

The 2024 NFL Draft is only two days away. During this time, most of my football thoughts are on this year’s fast-approaching draft. Every now and then I think about drafts of the past. Those thoughts brought this. 

The Top 10 Minnesota Vikings First Round Picks

10. Robert Smith, RB, Ohio State, 21st pick 1993

Robert Smith is one of the biggest “what ifs” in Vikings franchise history. Just about every malady from chicken pox to a torn ACL slowed his NFL start. Once he finally got his footing in the NFL he was rarely slowed. In fact, the only thing that slowed him was his early retirement at 28. If he’d put up the numbers in his first four seasons that he put up his final four seasons, Smith would be honored in Canton. 

10. Keith Millard, DT, Washington State, 13th pick 1984

Through his first five seasons with the Vikings, Keith Millard was on an all-timer pace. He routinely had his way with the blocking schemes designed to slow him. It was a blast to watch. 1989 was his best season. 18 sacks, NFL Defensive Player of the Year, third in the MVP voting. The attention paid to Millard that year helped defensive end Chris Doleman reach 21 sacks. Injuries sadly shortened Millard’s great career.

10. Harrison Smith, S, Notre Dame, 29th pick 2012

Harrison Smith has been a playmaking force all over the Vikings defense since his first game. He plays everywhere. He can do everything. In my book, he’s been the best safety in football over the past decade. He should get Hall of Fame consideration five years after his retirement. 

10. Kevin Williams, DT, Oklahoma State, 9th pick 2003

When I think of Kevin Williams I often think of a play he made as a rookie against the Kansas City Chiefs. At the snap, he flashed through Will Shields, dispatched Tony Richardson as if he wasn’t there, and tackled Priest Holmes at a spot closer to the quarterback than the line of scrimmage. At the time, each of those players was among the best in the game at their position. Shields is a Hall of Famer. Williams made each look like they didn’t belong in his league. He’s the sort of defensive tackle that the Vikings have been seeking since he departed Minnesota. Defensive tackles like Kevin Williams don’t come around too often. 

10. Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU, 22nd pick 2020

After only four seasons, Justin Jefferson enters this list of great Vikings first round picks. In another four seasons, he should be in the top half of this list. I never thought that a Vikings receiver would ever enter the elite orbit of Cris Carter and Randy Moss. Then along came Jefferson. He’s remarkable. Moss had the freakish athletic ability. Carter had the hands and body control. Jefferson has emerged as the best receiver in the league with unrelenting competitiveness and technique. He’s a great, fun football player. 

9. Joey Browner, S, USC, 19th pick 1983

After Joey Browner took apart his Los Angeles Rams team, head coach John Robinson called him the game’s best defensive player. As with Millard, injuries shortened Browner’s career. If not for those injuries he’d be in the Hall of Fame. Despite an injury-shortened career, he has a legitimate Hall of Fame case. Especially after safety peer Kenny Easley made it. There are many Vikings fans of a certain age that consider Joey Browner their favorite player. He was a great, fun football player. 

8. Chuck Foreman, RB, Miami, 12th pick 1973

For his first five years, Chuck Foreman was one of the best, if not the best, running back in the league. He was certainly the most versatile back. In 1975, he was seven rushing yards shy of leading the NFC in rushing, receptions, and touchdowns. There was no talk of a Triple Crown because there was never a thought that a running back could lead those three categories. Only Hall of Famers rank higher than Foreman on this list. There’s a legitimate argument that he should join them in Canton. 

7. Chris Doleman, DE, Pittsburgh, 4th pick 1985

Just like I have that particular memory of Kevin Williams, I have a particular memory of Chris Doleman. It’s a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. It’s a game against Anthony Munoz. Some consider Munoz the best offensive tackle the game’s ever seen. Doleman made him look pedestrian. He made a lot of very good offensive linemen look pedestrian. 

6. Ron Yary, OT, USC, 1st pick 1968

Ron Yary was arguably the best offensive tackle of his era. First pick in the draft, six time first-team All-Pro, two time second-team All-Pro, seven Pro Bowls, 1970s All-Decade Team. 

5. Carl Eller, DE, Minnesota, 6th pick 1964

Carl Eller’s playing size is listed as 6’6” and 247 lbs. As a little, California kid falling for the Vikings in the early 1970s, Eller seemed twice that size. He was a beast of a football player and one of the reasons I’ve been a Vikings fan since the early 1970s. 

4. Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma, 7th pick 2007

Adrian Peterson was a beast of a back. One of the best I’ve ever seen. He has the greatest rushing game in NFL history. He was eight yards from the greatest rushing season in NFL history. Three-time rushing champ, five time first-team All-Pro, seven Pro Bowls, 2010s All-Decade Team, 2012 MVP. Adrian Peterson is a Hall of Famer five years after he retires. 

3. Randall McDaniel, OG, Arizona State, 19th pick 1988

His funky stance was noticeable. His athleticism and ability to dominate defenders was even more noticeable. He’s one of the best guards to ever play in the league. Nine time first-team All-Pro, 12 Pro Bowls, 1990s All-Decade Team, NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, Pro Football Hall of Fame. 

2. Randy Moss, WR, Marshall, 21st pick 1998

Randy Moss scared defenses more than any receiver I’ve ever seen. Blanket double, even triple, coverage often wasn’t enough coverage to keep him from catching a pass. He’s arguably the most physically gifted receiver that’s ever played. Four time first-team All-Pro, six Pro Bowls, 2000s All-Decade Team, NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team, Pro Football Hall of Fame. 

1. Alan Page, DT, Notre Dame, 15th pick 1967

Alan Page gets the #1 spot because he was a fantastic football player. He’s also my favorite all-time player. Page was the first defensive football player to be named the league’s MVP. For the young folk, he was the Aaron Donald of his day. Page was so quick off the snap. He just tore up offensive lines. Six time first-team All-Pro, three time second-team All-Pro, nine Pro Bowls, two time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, 1971 MVP, 1970s All-Decade Team, NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team. 

***

Perhaps I’m being overly hopeful but Christian Darrisaw is on his way to earning a spot on this list. 

Hall of Famers

Alan Page

Randy Moss

Randall McDaniel

Carl Eller

Ron Yary

Chris Doleman

Will be a Hall of Famer

Adrian Peterson

Have a Hall of Fame Case

Chuck Foreman

Joey Browner

Kevin Williams

Harrison Smith

Building a first-year eligible Hall of Fame Case

Justin Jefferson

If not for the injuries that dismantled his career, Keith Millard would be in the Hall of Fame company of fellow Vikings defensive linemen Page, Eller, Doleman, John Randle, eventually Jared Allen, and hopefully Kevin Williams. 

Flea Flicker Top 5 Draft Prospects By Position

It’s finally Draft Week and I was thinking of the best prospects at each position. Again. 

Top 5 Draft Prospects By Position

Quarterback

1. Caleb Williams, USC

2. Jayden Daniels, LSU

3. Drake Maye, North Carolina

4. J.J. McCarthy, Michigan

5. Michael Penix Jr., Washington

Running Backs

1. Jonathon Brooks, Texas

2. Trey Benson, Florida State

3. MarShawn Lloyd, USC

4. Blake Corum, Michigan

5. Jaylen Wright, Tennessee

Wide Receivers

1. Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State

2. Rome Odunze, Washington

3. Malik Nabers, LSU

4. Brian Thomas Jr., LSU

5. Ladd McConkey, Georgia

Tight Ends

1. Brock Bowers

2. Ja’Tavion Sanders, Texas

3. Theo Johnson, Penn State

4. Cade Stover, Ohio State

5. AJ Barner, Michigan

Offensive Tackles

1. Joe Alt, Notre Dame

2. Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State

3. Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State

4. JC Latham, Alabama

5. Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma

Interior Offensive Linemen

1. Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon

2. Zach Frazier, West Virginia

3. Graham Barton, Duke

4. Cooper Beebe, Kansas State

5. Zak Zinter, Michigan

Edge Rushers

1. Laiatu Latu, UCLA

2. Dallas Turner, Alabama

3. Chop Robinson, Penn State

4. Jared Verse, Florida State

5. Bralen Trice, Washington

Defensive Tackles

1. Byron Murphy II, Texas

2. Johnny Newton, Illinois

3. Darius Robinson, Missouri

4. Kris Jenkins, Michigan

5. Brandon Dorlus, Oregon

Linebackers

1. Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M

2. Payton Wilson, NC State

3. Junior Carlson, Michigan

4. Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson

5. Cedric Gray, North Carolina

Cornerbacks

1. Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo

2. Terrion Arnold, Alabama

3. Cooper DeJean, Iowa

4. Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama

5. Nate Wiggins, Clemson

Safeties

1. Tyler Nubin, Minnesota

2. Javon Bullard, Georgia

3. Kamren Kinchens, Miami

4. Calen Bullock, USC

5. Jaden Hicks, Washington State

 

One More Minnesota Vikings 7-Round Mock Draft?

It’s Draft Week! Finally, Draft Week. I’m tired of mock drafts. I’m weary from all of the draft speculation and guesses. I’m ready for the real damn thing. So, here’s another Minnesota Vikings 7-Round Mock Draft. Hopefully, it’s the last one. 

In this mock, just like many mocks, the Vikings trade their two 2024 first round picks and a 2025 first round pick to the New England Patriots for the third pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. It might take more than three #1s. If it does, the Vikings better get something pick-wise in return. Anyway, it’s the inclusion of this year’s two #1s that impact this mock draft. The Vikings are sending those to the Patriots for the third pick in the draft. 

1. Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

4. Christian Mahogany, G, Boston College

4. Maason Smith, DL, LSU

5. Anthony Gould, WR, Oregon State

5. Nehemiah Pritchett, CB, Auburn

6. Beaux Limmer, C, Arkansas

7. Dallas Gant, LB, Toledo

7. AJ Barner, TE, Michigan

The quarterback. This offseason, so much, too much, has been said about the Vikings pursuit of their next quarterback. For me, it’s simple. Since Fran Tarkenton retired after the 1978 season, I’ve watched the Vikings mostly settle for their next quarterbacks. Forty-five years. 45! Enough! I’m to the point where I don’t even care what it costs to move up for a quarterback. If Kevin O’Connell, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, Josh McCown, and all of the team’s decision-makers see Drake Maye or J.J. McCarthy as the answer, GO GET HIM. I’m so tired of the Vikings taking sad, token swings at the quarterback position. 

As for the rest of this mock draft, the Vikings are currently scheduled to sit out Day 2 of the draft. After quarterback, I see interior defensive and offensive line as the Vikings biggest needs. Usually, I lean defensive line with their first pick in the fourth round. It’d be a beautiful thing if Christian Mahogany is still available. Run, don’t walk, to the podium. Adding Maason Smith would make the fourth round a raging success. 

I really like Anthony Gould and Nehemiah Pritchett in the fifth round. Beaux Limmer would be another gift for the interior offensive line. Dallas Gant and AJ Barner are seventh round fliers at positions that could use added numbers. 

Lance Zierlein’s Mock Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft is finally next week. In honor of the draft being a week away here is a draft from another of my favorite NFL.com talent evaluators. Lance Zierlein. 

1. Chicago Bears (via Carolina): Caleb Williams, QB, USC

2. Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

3. New York Giants (via New England): Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

4. Minnesota Vikings (via Arizona): J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

5. Los Angeles Chargers: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

6. New England Patriots (via NY Giants): Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

7. Tennessee Titans: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

8. Atlanta Falcons: Jared Verse, Edge, Florida State

9. Chicago Bears: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

10. New York Jets: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

11. Arizona Cardinals (via Minnesota): Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

12. Denver Broncos: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

13. Las Vegas Raiders: JC Latham, OT, Alabama

14. New Orleans Saints: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State 

15. Indianapolis Colts: Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

16. Arizona Cardinals (via Seattle): Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

18. Cincinnati Bengals: Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington

19. Los Angeles Rams: Laiatu Latu, Edge, UCLA

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

21. Miami Dolphins: Chop Robinson, Edge, Penn State

22. Philadelphia Eagles: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

23. Seattle Seahawks (via Arizona): Graham Barton, IOL, Duke

24. Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

25. Green Bay Packers: Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota 

26. Washington Commanders (via Tampa Bay): Amarius Mimis, OT, Georgia

27. Arizona Cardinals (via Houston): Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

28. Buffalo Bills: Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

29. Detroit Lions: Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

30. Baltimore Ravens: Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona

31. San Francisco 49ers: Darius Robinson, DL, Missouri

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia

Flea Flicker One-Week Out Mock Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft is only one week from today. I wish that it was today. Here’s another mock draft. It’s a lot like the last one. 

The Vikings trade #11 and #23 to the Cardinals for #4. In reality, there are probably some future picks involved to balance things. For this fake trade, only this year’s first round picks are significant. 

1. Chicago Bears (via Carolina): Caleb Williams, QB, USC

2. Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

3. New England Patriots: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

4. Minnesota Vikings (via Arizona): J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

5. Los Angeles Chargers: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State 

6. New York Giants: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

7. Tennessee Titans: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

8. Atlanta Falcons: Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

9. Chicago Bears: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

10. New York Jets: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

11. Arizona Cardinals: Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

12. Denver Broncos: Bo Nix, QB, Oregon

13. Las Vegas Raiders: Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington

14. New Orleans Saints: JC Latham, OT, Alabama

15. Indianapolis Colts: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

16. Seattle Seahawks: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State

17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

18. Cincinnati Bengals: Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

19. Los Angeles Rams: Liatu Latu, Edge, UCLA

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

21. Miami Dolphins: Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

22. Philadelphia Eagles: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

23. Arizona Cardinals: Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

24. Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

25. Green Bay Packers: Graham Barton, OL, Duke

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

27. Arizona Cardinals (via Houston): Darius Robinson, Edge, Missouri

28. Buffalo Bills: Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

29. Detroit Lions: Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

30. Baltimore Ravens: Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona

31. San Francisco 49ers: Zach Frazier, C, West Virginia

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia

Until the FINAL one. 

Bucky Brooks’ Mock Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft is finally next week. In honor of the draft being a week away here is a draft from one of my favorite talent evaluators in the media. Like his podcast partner Daniel Jeremiah, Bucky Brooks is easily one of the best in the media for the simple reason that he once did it professionally. This mock is a favorite as the Minnesota Vikings are selecting North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye without trading up from #11. Keeping the 23rd pick and selecting Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean would be a special thing. 

1. Chicago Bears (via Carolina): Caleb Williams, QB, USC

2. Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

3. New England Patriots: J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

4. Arizona Cardinals: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

5. Los Angeles Chargers: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

6. New York Giants: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

7. Tennessee Titans: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State

8. Atlanta Falcons: Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

9. Chicago Bears: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

10. New York Jets: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

11. Minnesota Vikings: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

12. Denver Broncos: Jared Verse, Edge, Florida State

13. Las Vegas Raiders: Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

14. New Orleans Saints: JC Latham, OT, Alabama

15. Indianapolis Colts: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

16. Seattle Seahawks: Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington

17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

18. Cincinnati Bengals: Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

19. Los Angeles Rams: Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

21. Miami Dolphins: Jackson Powers Johnson, C, Oregon

22. Philadelphia Eagles: Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

23. Minnesota Vikings: Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

24. Dallas Cowboys: Graham Barton, IOL, Duke

25. Green Bay Packers: Payton Wilson, LB, North Carolina State

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Laiatu Latu, Edge, UCLA

27. Arizona Cardinals (via Houston): Darius Robinson, Edge, Missouri

28. Buffalo Bills: Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

29. Detroit Lions: Chop Robinson, Edge, Penn State

30. Baltimore Ravens: Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

31. San Francisco 49ers: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia

Daniel Jeremiah’s Mock Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft is finally next week. In honor of the draft being a week away here is a draft from one of my favorite talent evaluators in the media. Daniel Jeremiah is easily one of the best in the media for the simple reason that he once did it professionally. 

1. Chicago Bears (via Carolina): Caleb Williams, QB, USC

2. Washington Commanders: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

3. New England Patriots: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

4. Minnesota Vikings (via Arizona): J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

5. New York Jets (via LA Chargers): Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

6. New York Giants: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

7. Tennessee Titans: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

8. Atlanta Falcons: Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

9. Chicago Bears: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

10. Los Angeles Charger (via NY Jets): Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

11. Arizona Cardinals: Jared Verse, Edge, Florida State

12. Denver Broncos: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

13. Las Vegas Raiders: Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington

14. New Orleans Saints: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State

15. Indianapolis Colts: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

16. Seattle Seahawks: Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington

17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

18. Cincinnati Bengals: JC Latham, OT, Alabama

19. Los Angeles Rams: Laiatu Latu, Edge, UCLA

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

21. Miami Dolphins: Graham Barton, IOL, Duke

22. Philadelphia Eagles: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

23. Arizona Cardinals(via Houston/Minnesota): Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

24. Dallas Cowboys: Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

25. Green Bay Packers: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Darius Robinson, DL, Missouri

27. Arizona Cardinals (via Houston): Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

28. Buffalo Bills: Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

29. Detroit Lions: Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

30. Baltimore Ravens: Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

31. San Francisco 49ers: Chop Robinson, Edge, Penn State

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

Best Minnesota Vikings Draft Picks By Round

The 2024 NFL Draft is nearly a week away. It will be the 64th draft in the franchise history of the Minnesota Vikings. There were 20 rounds in the 1961 NFL Draft. There were also only 14 teams in the NFL. There are only seven rounds and 32 teams today. This is a look back at some of the best Minnesota Vikings picks in each round of the past 63 drafts.

Best Minnesota Vikings Draft Picks By Round

Best First Round Pick

1967. Alan Page, DT, Notre Dame

13 Vikings players have busts in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Six of those players came to Minnesota by way of the first round.

Carl Eller (1964)

Alan Page (1967)

Ron Yary (1968)

Chris Doleman (1985)

Randall McDaniel (1988)

Randy Moss (1998)

Kevin Williams (2003) should join them one day. Adrian Peterson (2007) will be get a bust in a couple years. Harrison Smith (2012) is building a Hall argument. Justin Jefferson (2020) is currently on the right path. Any of them could be the pick here. Alan Page is my pick. Perhaps I’m a bit biased as he’s my favorite player from my six decades with the team. Even with that bias, picking the first defensive player to be named NFL MVP (1971) and one of the finest defensive tackles to ever play isn’t a questionable decision. 

Best Second Round Pick

1974. Matt Blair, LB, Iowa State

It’s safe to say that the Vikings don’t have a strong second round history. I have Matt Blair as the best of the bunch. He had a terrific 15-year career in Minnesota. He earned six consecutive trips to the Pro Bowl and was named All-Pro in 1980. He was named one of the 50 Greatest Vikings and is inducted into the team’s Ring of Honor. The dedicated historians of the Pro Football Researchers Association inducted Blair into the Hall of Very Good. That’s the first stop of many players on their way to an eventual bust in Canton. I’m not sure if Matt Blair ever gets there but his career is worthy of Hall of Fame consideration as a Senior candidate. 

Some of the second round contenders:

Ed White (1969)

Sammy White (1976)

Dennis Swilley (1977)

Orlando Thomas (1995)

Jim Kleinsasser (1999)

E.J. Henderson (2003)

Cedric Griffin (2007)

Phil Loadholt (2009)

Kyle Rudolph (2011)

Eric Kendricks (2015)

Dalvin Cook (2017)

Brian O’Neill (2018)

Best Third Round Pick

1961. Fran Tarkenton, QB, Georgia

The best third round pick in the franchise history of the Minnesota Vikings is without question.

Best Fourth Round Pick

2010. Everson Griffen, DE, USC

If Everson Griffen didn’t have to wait behind Jared Allen for his starting shot, his career would probably shine even brighter. Once he entered the starting lineup in 2014, he was one of the league’s best pass rushers. He was a terrific, fun football player.

Some of the fourth round contenders:

Roy Winston (1962)

Paul Flatley (1963)

Reggie Rutland (1987)

Mewelde Moore (2004)

Ray Edwards (2006)

Brian Robison (2007)

Camryn Bynum (2021)

Best Fifth Round Pick

1992. Ed McDaniel, LB, Clemson

The best fifth round pick in Vikings franchise history comes down to Ed McDaniel and Stefon Diggs. I’m going with McDaniel because he played well for longer in Minnesota than Diggs. Ed McDaniel is one of the more underrated players in team history. It didn’t help that he was often overlooked during his career. He was named to one Pro Bowl but should’ve gone to a few more. For much of the 1990s he was the Vikings best defensive player not named John Randle. 

Best Sixth Round Pick

1998. Matt Birk, C, Harvard

Matt Birk is the only Vikings sixth round pick to make a sustained contribution. Next is probably the player that replaced him at center, John Sullivan. Drafted as an offensive tackle, Birk was soon moved to center. He became the starter in his third season and led one of the better offensive lines in team history for nearly a decade. He was a regular on the Pro Bowl roster, making it six times. 

Josh Metellus is a current former sixth-round pick that could go on to a real nice career. 

One of the biggest “what ifs” in Vikings franchise history is tight end Joe Senser. Drafted in the sixth round of the 1979 NFL Draft, he didn’t play as a rookie, showed promise in 1980, and exploded in 1981. 79 catches, 1004 yards, and eight touchdowns. This was an era in which tight ends were truly starting to emerge as offensive weapons. Kellen Winslow, Ozzie Newsome, and Dave Casper were starting or in the middle of their Hall of Fame careers. Senser entered their orbit in 1981. He had a modest season during the strike-shortened 1982 season and suffered a knee injury in 1983 that wiped out that season. He tried to return in 1984 but wasn’t the same and retired after the season. Just as he was emerging as one of the league’s best tight ends his career was over. It did clear the way for the best seventh-round pick in team history. 

Best Seventh Round Pick

1982. Steve Jordan, TE, Brown

While I do like Steve Jordan as the best seventh round pick in team history, it’s not an easy decision. A couple corners make it difficult.

Bobby Bryant (1967)

Carl Lee (1983)

 

Any of Steve Jordan, Bobby Bryant, and Carl Lee could be the choice here. I have Jordan now but tomorrow I might lean toward Bryant. Anyway, those with a greater say than me on matters like this agree. Jordan is the only one of the three that’s been inducted into the Vikings Ring of Honor. He’s arguably the best tight end in franchise history. Just as Joe Senser was becoming a sad story of what might’ve been, Jordan was emerging as an impact player. 68 catches in 1985 and the first of six consecutive Pro Bowls in 1986. By comparison, Lee made three Pro Bowls and an All-Pro. Bryant made two Pro Bowls. 

Best Eighth Round Pick

1981. Wade Wilson, QB, East Texas State

Pickings are going to get slim from Best Eighth Round Pick to the Best Twentieth Round Pick. That’s one of the reasons there are only seven rounds now. 

Wade Wilson is an easy pick as the Best Eight Round Pick in team history. He made 48 starts over his ten years in Minnesota. In 1988, he started ten games. He guided his team to a 7-3 record in those ten starts and was named to the Pro Bowl. 

Best Ninth Round Pick

1977. Scott Studwell, LB, Illinois

No offense to Terry Allen and Brad Johnson, this decision is nearly as easy as picking Fran Tarkenton as the best of the third rounders. 

Best Tenth Round Pick

Stu Voigt, TE, Wisconsin

Stu Voigt was the tight end of my youth. He was a reliable pass catcher and very good blocker. He was probably the Vikings best blocking tight end until Jim Kleinsasser came along. 

Best Eleventh Round Pick

1961. Jerry Mays, DT, SMU

Jerry Mays had a terrific football career. Unfortunately, that terrific career was with the Kansas City Chiefs. Until the NFL-AFL merger agreement in 1966, there was an annual race to sign draft picks between the two leagues. The Vikings signed most of their draft picks but a couple got away. Mays was one of them. His ten year career with the Chiefs is littered with all-star games and All-Pro honors. 

The best 11th round pick in Vikings franchise history is either Mays or Godfrey Zaunbecher. While it’s disappointing that Mays made a terrible decision in 1961, he’s an easy pick here.

Best Twelfth Round Pick

1986. Jesse Solomon, LB, Florida State

Just as Jesse Solomon was emerging as an impact player in the Vikings defense, he was shipped to Dallas in the ridiculous Herschel Walker trade. Solomon’s inclusion in that damn trade bothered me the moment it was made. 

Best Thirteenth Round Pick

1965. Dave Osborn, RB, North Dakota

The NFL Draft dropped from 17 to 12 rounds in 1977. Dave Osborn is a real easy choice for best 13th round pick. He was named one of the 50 Greatest Vikings. His 972 yards in 1967 was a franchise record until Chuck Foreman took over. 

Best Fourteenth Round Pick

1967. Jim Hargrove, LB, Howard Payne

Jim Hargrove gets the nod for hanging around for three seasons. No other fourteenth round pick lasted more than a single season. 

Best Fifteenth Round Pick

1971. Jeff Wright, DB, Minnesota

Jeff Wright was the only contributor that came out of the dreadful 1971 draft. First round pick Leo Hayden and Wright were the only draft picks (out of 17 rounds!) that even made the team. Hayden is one of the Vikings all-time draft busts. At least they had Wright. He stepped into the Vikings secondary in 1973 after Karl Kassulke was paralyzed in a motorcycle accident as he was heading to training camp. Wright paired with the great Paul Krause from 1973-77 to form a solid safety duo. 

Mike Mercer (1961) deserves mention for scoring the first points in Vikings franchise history. 

Best Sixteenth Round Pick

None

No sixteenth round pick ever made the team. 

Best Seventeenth Round Pick

1973. Dave Winfield, TE, Minnesota

In 1973, the Vikings took a 17th round flier on a local legend. Instead of playing football for his hometown team, Dave Winfield decided to go on to a Hall of Fame baseball career. 

As for a 17th round pick that actually played for the Vikings, there’s Bob Lee (1968). He played in Minnesota for eight years with 11 starts. The Vikings were 9-2 in those 11 starts. Lee’s most memorable run as the Vikings quarterback ended in the 1977 NFC Championship game. 

Best Eighteenth Round Pick

None

No eighteenth round pick ever made the team. 

Best Nineteenth Round Pick

None

No nineteenth round pick ever made the team. 

Best Twentieth Round Pick

1964. Milt Sunde, G, Minnesota 

The Vikings opened the 1964 NFL Draft with Carl Eller in the first round and closed it with Milt Sunde in the twentieth. Both were selected out of the University of Minnesota. From 1964-74, Sunde started 112 games at guard. He had one Pro Bowl nod in 1966. 

Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft Tracker

The 2024 NFL Draft is creeping closer. 11 more days of eager speculation. 

Here are some of the most recent mock draft predictions for the Minnesota Vikings.

NFL.com’s Daniel Jeremiah:

1(4): J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Projected trade: Vikings send #11 and #23 to the Arizona Cardinals for #4.

NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks:

1(11). Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

1(23). Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

Brooks doesn’t include trades in his mocks so the Vikings get lucky in his projection.

NFL.com’s Charles Davis:

1(11). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

1(23). Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

NFL.com’s Eric Edholm:

1(4). Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Another projected trade with the Cardinals.

NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein:

1(11). Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

NFL.com’s Cynthia Frelund:

1(11). Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

It should be noted that the mock drafts of Zierlein and Frelund were posted before the Vikings acquired a second first round pick from the Houston Texans. 

NFL.com’s Chad Reuter: 

1(4). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Another projected trade with the Cardinals.

3(71). Brandon Dorlus, DT, Oregon

4(108). Christian Mahogany, G, Boston College

The Athletic’s Alec Lewis:

1(17). Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

Perhaps to be a bit different, Lewis predicts a trade back with the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

1(23). Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington

2(48). Cooper Beebe, G, Kansas State

4(129). Marist Liufau, LB, Notre Dame

5(157). Jalyx Hunt, Edge, Houston Christian

5(167). MarShawn Lloyd, RB, USC

6(177). Nehemiah Pritchett, CB, Pittsburgh

7(230). Jordan Whittington, WR, Texas

7(232). JD Bertrand, LB, Notre Dame

The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman:

1(4). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner:

1(4). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr.:

1(11). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

1(23). Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

ESPN’s Field Yates:

1(5). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Projected trade: The Vikings acquire the fifth pick from the Los Angeles Chargers. 

ESPN’s Jordan Reid:

1(11). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

ESPN’s Matt Miller:

1(3). Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Projected trade: The acquire the third pick from the New England Patriots.

4(108). Myles Harden, CB, South Dakota

4(129). Javontae Jean-Baptiste, DE, Notre Dame

5(157). Isaac Guerendo, RB, Louisville

5(167). Nehemiah Pritchett, CB, Auburn

6(177). Jha’Quan, WR, Tulane

7(230). Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint, WR, Georgia

7(232). Cedric Johnson, DE, Mississippi

Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer:

1(11). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

1(23). Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

4(108). Tommy Eichenberg, LB, Ohio State

4(129). Renardo Green, CB, Florida State

5(157). Bub Means, WR, Pittsburgh 

5(167). Tyler Davis, DT, Clemson

6(177). Cedric Johnson, Edge, Mississippi

7(230). Cody Schrader, RB, Missouri

7(232). Zakhari Franklin, WR, Mississippi

CBS Sports’ Will Brinson:

1(5). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Projected trade: The Vikings send #11 and #23 to the Los Angeles Chargers for #5.

CBS Sports’ Ryan Wilson:

1(5). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Another projected trade with the Chargers.

CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso:

1(3). Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Projected trade: The Vikings trade all the way to #3 with the New England Patriots. 

***

Nearly every mock draft of note since the trade for an an extra first has the Vikings selecting J.J. McCarthy or Drake Maye. This must happen. 

11 more days. 

Minnesota Vikings Top-30 Visits

A big part, perhaps the final part, of the long, extensive draft evaluation process is the Top 30 visits. Teams are allowed to bring up to 30 prospects to team facilities. These visits are done in a variety of ways and for a variety of reasons. Some visits are done in groups. Teams often observe how the young men interact with each other. Some visits are done on a more individual basis. Teams do not announce these visits. They are often leaked through the prospects representatives or perhaps the prospects themselves. It can be difficult to put the list of visits together. The website Walter Football has been doing so for years. 

It’s the Minnesota Vikings visits that matter most. Through the efforts of Walter Football, Tyler Forness (now with the Sporting News), and SI’s Will Ragatz, I’ve pieced together a list of 20 prospects that have visited the magnificent TCO Performance Center and met with Vikings coaches and personnel people. 

Minnesota Vikings Top-30 Visits

Erick All, TE, Iowa

Javon Baker, WR, Central Florida

Khristian Boyd, DT, Northern Iowa

Millard Bradford, S, TCU

McCallan Castles, TE, Tennessee

Joshua Cephus, WR, Texas-San Antonio

Michael Hall Jr., DT, Ohio State

Donovan Jennings, OT, South Florida

Dillon Johnson, RB, Washington

Marshawn Kneeland, Edge, Western Michigan

Laiatu Latu, Edge, UCLA

Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

Gabriel Murphy, Edge, UCLA

Spencer Rolland, OL, North Carolina

Maason Smith, DT, LSU

Taki Taimani, DT, Oregon

Charles Turner III, Center, LSU

Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

Blake Watson, RB, Memphis

The Quarterbacks

Then there’s the quarterbacks. This Vikings offseason is one of change at the all-important quarterback position. For that reason, it’s probably the team’s most important offseason in years, even decades. The Vikings haven’t brought in any of the quarterbacks. Instead, it’s the Vikings that have been doing the visiting. They have visited, or will visit, all of the top quarterbacks other than Caleb Williams. The Chicago Bears might as well Williams now as the top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. As for the remaining consensus top quarterbacks, the Vikings have sent, or will send, a party of people to visit with them and put them through class work and drills. 

Jayden Daniels

Drake Maye

J.J. McCarthy

Michael Penix Jr.

Bo Nix

I’ve wondered if the Vikings will send the party to visit with Spencer Rattler but so far it’s only the above five quarterbacks. 

NFL Draft Attendees

Thirteen of the prospects expected to be selected early in the 2024 NFL have accepted invitations to attend the April 25th event in Detroit. Of course, the list is topped by the quarterbacks that are expected to be the first three players selected. 

NFL Draft Attendees

Caleb Williams, QB, USC

Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

J.C. Latham, OT, Alabama

Laiatu Latu, Edge, UCLA

Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

Darius Robinson, DL, Missouri

Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

The league wanted to keep the number of attendees at no more than 15 players. They also wanted the players to be those most likely to be selected in the top half of the first round. No one wanted one of those dreaded green room waits that routinely grabs extended screen time. 13 players accepted invitations. Reportedly, a few more were invited. Notre Dame offensive tackle Joe Alt and Georgia tight end Brock Bowers opted to spend their big night with their families and declined their invitations. Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy apparently took a different path to the same decision. He was invited but when he didn’t respond the league moved on. That’s an odd way to treat such a significant event. I absolutely understand opting to spend the big night with family rather than under the glare of the bright lights. Whisked here, pulled over there, I’d rather be somewhere comfortable with those that got me to this moment. Oh well. It’s still weird that McCarthy didn’t even respond. Maybe the invite got lost in the mail. 

The next tier of quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft are Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. and Oregon’s Bo Nix. Apparently the NFL doesn’t see either as likely to be drafted in the top half of the first round as neither were invited. 

Of the attendees, I suppose this Minnesota Vikings fan would most like to see Drake Maye put that Vikings hat on his head. This draft is all about finding the team’s quarterback for the next decade-plus. My favorite for the role has been whittled down to Maye and McCarthy. I can easily see either in what I believe is Kevin O’Connell’s desired offense. The Vikings have two first round picks (11th and 23rd). A dream first round would have Maye and Missouri defensive tackle Darius Robinson wearing Vikings hats. Unfortunately, both first round picks are probably needed to trade into the top five to get that quarterback. 

Congratulations to the 13 attendees. Hopefully, your stay in Detroit is a short one. 

Two-Weeks-Out Flea Flicker Mock Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft is two weeks from today. I wish that it was today. Here’s another mock draft. 

The Vikings trade #11 and #23 to the Cardinals for #4. In reality, there are probably some future picks involved to balance things. For this fake trade, only this year’s first round picks are significant. 

1. Chicago Bears (via Carolina): Caleb Williams, QB, USC

2. Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

3. New England Patriots: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

4. Minnesota Vikings (via Arizona): J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

5. Los Angeles Chargers: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State 

6. New York Giants: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

7. Tennessee Titans: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

8. Atlanta Falcons: Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

9. Chicago Bears: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

10. New York Jets: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

11. Arizona Cardinals: Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

12. Denver Broncos: Bo Nix, QB, Oregon

13. Las Vegas Raiders: Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington

14. New Orleans Saints: JC Latham, OT, Alabama

15. Indianapolis Colts: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

16. Seattle Seahawks: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State

17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

18. Cincinnati Bengals: Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

19. Los Angeles Rams: Liatu Latu, Edge, UCLA

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

21. Miami Dolphins: Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

22. Philadelphia Eagles: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

23. Arizona Cardinals: Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

24. Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

25. Green Bay Packers: Graham Barton, OL, Duke

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

27. Arizona Cardinals (via Houston): Darius Robinson, Edge, Missouri

28. Buffalo Bills: Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

29. Detroit Lions: Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

30. Baltimore Ravens: Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona

31. San Francisco 49ers: Zach Frazier, C, West Virginia

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia

Until the next one. 

Minnesota Vikings 7-Round “What If” Mock Draft

Nearly everything that the Minnesota Vikings have done this offseason has been part of an earnest attempt to add a promising, young quarterback. A quarterback of the future. Perhaps present too. 

This Vikings offseason, so far:

-watched Kirk Cousins sign with the Atlanta Falcons

-hired Josh McCown as quarterbacks coach

-signed Sam Darnold as a potential “bridge” quarterback

-acquired a second first-round pick from the Houston Texans

The Vikings have created a tremendous landing spot for a rookie quarterback. They are loaded with offensive playmakers like Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson, Jordan Addison, and Aaron Jones. They have strong bookend protectors in Christian Darrisaw and Brian O’Neill. Kevin O’Connell is an offensive-minded, former quarterback. He’s an emerging play-designer and play-caller. The addition of fellow former quarterback Josh McCown as quarterbacks coach is one of the biggest additions of the offseason. O’Connell has also re-organized the responsibilities of his coaching staff to allow for him to work more closely with his quarterbacks. Everything that the Vikings have done this offseason has been with adding a high-end, rookie quarterback in mind. The aggressiveness of those intentions is best seen in the addition of a second, first-round pick. The Vikings clearly intend to use that pick and other picks to better position themselves in the draft for that quarterback. The Vikings need to pick earlier than #11 to grab one of the top-3/4 quarterbacks. I believe that it will happen. I believe that the Vikings will pay what it costs to insure that Drake Maye or J.J. McCarthy is putting on a Vikings hat on draft night. 

However. What if the Vikings can’t find a trade partner? What if the Vikings can’t meet the draft trade price? This is a 7-Round Mock Draft with that unfortunate possibility in mind. 

1(11). Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

1(23). Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington

4(108). Cam Hart, CB, Notre Dame

4(129). Malik Washington, WR, Virginia

5(157). Zak Zinter, G, Michigan

5(167). Braiden McGregor, Edge, Michigan

6(177). Kimani Vidal, RB, Troy

7(230). Anim Dankwah, OT, Howard

7(232). Jordan Magee, LB, Temple

While this draft doesn’t go as hoped as the Vikings can’t get to the top of the draft. It takes two to make a trade and there wasn’t a partner to be found. The Vikings still get a first-round quarterback. What’s crazy about quarterbacks and the draft these days is that there are nearly always quarterbacks taken at the top of the draft. The quality of those quarterbacks vary wildly. There have been drafts in which Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix might’ve gone in the top-10. I know that I’d rather have either over Zach Wilson or Trey Lance. Even at the time, I couldn’t understand how Wilson and Lance were top-3 picks. Anyway, I feel that the Vikings present a terrific situation for any talented, young quarterback. One of the knocks on Penix and Nix is that each is a couple years older than Maye and McCarthy. I like the potential of Penix. If the Vikings can’t make that big draft trade, I’d be happy with Penix. I’d be thrilled with Byron Murphy II. He might be my favorite non-quarterback in this draft. He also fills the greatest need on the defense. 

As for the rest of this draft:

Cam Hart-I’d be thrilled with this pick. 

Malik Washington-Thrilled!

Zak Zinter-Thrilled!

Braiden McGregor-Should find a role in the edge rotation.

Kimani Vidal-This pint-sized powerhouse has intrigued me throughout the draft process.

Anim Dankwah-A developmental offensive tackle. 

Jordan Magee-Frankly, I’m surprised that PFF still has him available in the seventh.

This “What if” scenario isn’t the best. The Vikings must do what they’ve never done in their 63 years, and all of my years. They must aggressively get that quarterback. They’ve waited, I’ve waited, too damn long. Still, it takes two teams to make a draft trade work. There’s always that chance it doesn’t get done. If that unfortunate scenario plays out, I’d be happy with the above draft. After all, I’m used to the Vikings settling on the quarterback that falls to them. 

Flea Flicker Top 5 Draft Prospects By Position

It’s silly to keep ranking and re-ranking draft prospects. The draft evaluation process is silly. The 2024 NFL Draft can’t get here soon enough. Here’s another look at the Top 5 Draft Prospects By Position. 

Top 5 Draft Prospects By Position

Quarterback

1. Caleb Williams, USC

2. Jayden Daniels, LSU

3. Drake Maye, North Carolina

4. J.J. McCarthy, Michigan

5. Michael Penix Jr., Washington

Running Backs

1. Jonathon Brooks, Texas

2. Trey Benson, Florida State

3. MarShawn Lloyd, USC

4. Jaylen Wright, Tennessee

5. Blake Corum, Michigan

Wide Receivers

1. Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State

2. Rome Odunze, Washington

3. Malik Nabers, LSU

4. Brian Thomas Jr., LSU

5. Adonai Mitchell, Texas

Tight Ends

1. Brock Bowers

2. Ja’Tavion Sanders, Texas

3. Theo Johnson, Penn State

4. Cade Stover, Ohio State

5. Ben Sinnott, Kansas State

Offensive Tackles

1. Joe Alt, Notre Dame

2. Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State

3. Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State

4. JC Latham, Alabama

5. Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma

Interior Offensive Linemen

1. Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon

2. Zach Frazier, West Virginia

3. Graham Barton, Duke

4. Cooper Beebe, Kansas State

5. Zak Zinter, Michigan

Edge Rushers

1. Dallas Turner, Alabama

2. Laiatu Latu, UCLA

3. Chop Robinson, Penn State

4. Jared Verse, Florida State

5. Bralen Trice, Washington

Defensive Tackles

1. Byron Murphy II, Texas

2. Johnny Newton, Illinois

3. Darius Robinson, Missouri

4. Kris Jenkins, Michigan

5. T’Vondre Sweat, Texas

Linebackers

1. Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M

2. Payton Wilson, NC State

3. Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson

4. Junior Colson, Michigan

5. Cedric Gray, North Carolina

Cornerbacks

1. Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo

2. Terrion Arnold, Alabama

3. Cooper DeJean, Iowa

4. Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama

5. Nate Wiggins, Clemson

Safeties

1. Tyler Nubin, Minnesota

2. Javon Bullard, Georgia

3. Kamren Kinchens, Miami

4. Calen Bullock, USC

5. Jaden Hicks, Washington State

 

Minnesota Vikings Free Agency Ledger

It’s April and the 2024 NFL Draft is the focus. Just to take a break from possible draft fatigue, here’s a look back at the players the Minnesota Vikings have signed, resigned, and lost during a fairly active free agency. 

Signed:

Jonathan Greenard, Edge

Andrew Van Ginkel, Edge

Blake Cashman, LB

Aaron Jones, RB

Sam Darnold, QB

John Parker Romo, K

Jerry Tillery, DT

Shaq Griffin, CB

Trent Sherfield, WR

Kamu Grugier-Hill, LB

Jonah Williams, DT

Jihad Ward, Edge

Dan Feeney, G/C

Re-Signed:

Theo Jackson, S

Nick Muse, TE

Johnny Mundt, TE

Blake Brandel, OL

David Quessenberry, OT

Brandon Powell, WR

Jonathan Bullard, DT

Signed Elsewhere:

Kirk Cousins, QB - Atlanta Falcons

Danielle Hunter, Edge - Houston Texans

Jordan Hicks, LB - Cleveland Browns

Marcus Davenport, Edge - Detroit Lions

D.J. Wonnum, Edge - Carolina Panthers

K.J. Osborn, WR - New England Patriots

Khyiris Tonga, DT - Arizona Cardinals

Hakeem Adenji, OT - Cleveland Browns

Greg Joseph, K - Green Bay Packers

Troy Dye, LB - Los Angeles Chargers

Austin Schlottman, C/G - New York Giants

Dean Lowry, DL - Pittsburgh Steelers

Joshua Dobbs, QB - San Francisco 49ers

Alexander Mattison, RB - Las Vegas Raiders

Oli Udoh, OT - New Orleans Saints

Unsigned:

Dalton Risner, G

Cam Akers, RB

Chris Reed, G

Anthony Barr, LB

James Lynch, DT

William Kwenkeu, LB

T.J. Smith, DT

John Reid, CB

James Lynch is one unsigned free agent that I wouldn’t mind the Vikings bringing back. He missed the entire 2023 season to a torn ACL during training camp. Despite adding a couple defensive linemen in free agency, they could really use further reinforcements. The front remains the biggest defensive need. 

It’s been an active offseason. Now, back to the draft and getting that quarterback. 

Minnesota Vikings Drafted Quarterbacks

19 days until the Minnesota Vikings draft a quarterback. Over 63 drafts, they’ve never selected a quarterback with a top-10 pick. They’ve never really had the opportunity to select a quarterback that high. Other than their initial expansions, the Vikings have rarely been bad enough to draft high enough to select one of those elite throwers. Armed with the draft capital to trade to near top of this year’s draft, hopefully the Vikings will secure their first quarterback in the top-10. With the draft and quarterbacks on the mind here’s a look at all of quarterbacks drafted by the Minnesota Vikings and the rounds in which they were drafted. 

First Rounders

Tommy Kramer (1977)

Daunte Culpepper (1999)

Christian Ponder (2011)

Teddy Bridgewater (2014)

Second Rounders

Bill Cappleman (1970)

Tarvaris Jackson (2006)

Third Rounders

Fran Tarkenton (1961)

Fourth Rounders 

Mike Wells (1973)

Steve Dils (1979)

Chad May (1995)

Fifth Rounders

John David Booty (2008)

Jaren Hall (2023)

Sixth Rounders

Steve Bono (1985)

Joe Webb (2010)

Seventh Rounders 

Gino Toretta (1993)

Tyler Thigpen (2007)

Nate Stanley (2020)

Eighth Rounders

John Hankinson (1965)

Jeff Jordan (1965)

Wade Wilson (1981)

Ninth Rounders

Brad Johnson (1992)

Tenth Rounders 

Bill Salmon (1976)

Eleventh Rounders

Brian Dowling (1969)

Brent Pease (1987)

Fifteenth Rounders

Jim Haynie (1968)

Sixteenth Rounders 

Neil Graff (1972)

Seventeenth Rounders

Bob Lee (1968)

Twentieth Rounders

Mike McFarland (1961)

Mailon Kent (1963)

The Vikings selected Daunte Culpepper with the 11th pick of the 1999 NFL Draft. That is the highest pick the team has ever used for a quarterback. The first rounders were all selected to be franchise quarterbacks. Injuries riddled Tommy Kramer’s career. When he was on the field he brought thrills. He was a fun quarterback. Unfortunately, those injuries prevented any consistency. Knee injuries ended the potentially brilliant careers of Culpepper and Teddy Bridgewater. Christian Ponder was a serious first round reach. 

The only quarterback drafted by the Vikings that reached the exalted “franchise quarterback” status was the first third round selection, Fran Tarkenton. The team has been searching for their next franchise quarterback ever since he retired after the 1978 season. 

63 drafts and 29 drafted quarterbacks. Maybe six were selected with franchise quarterback in mind.

Fran Tarkenton

Tommy Kramer

Daunte Culpepper 

Tarvaris Jackson

Christian Ponder

Teddy Bridgewater

None was selected in the top-10 of their respective drafts. The remaining 23 quarterbacks were selected as developmental fliers. All of that changes in 19 days. The Vikings will trade into the top 10 and grab their quarterback. 

Some Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmores

It’s draft fatigue. I need a break from the intense anticipation of the Minnesota Vikings finding their next quarterback at the top of the draft. Finding a next quarterback at the top of a draft is a common thing for a lot of teams. It’s a very rare thing for the Vikings. In all my time with this team, I’ve never seen them within reasonable reach of the best quarterbacks in a particular draft. I’ve certainly not seen them in that situation when they’ve been in serious need of a quarterback. This is an important, intense moment in the sixty-four year history of the Minnesota Vikings. I need a break. So, here’s a little look at my Vikings past. Here are some Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmores. 

Most Important Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore

Jim Marshall

Bud Grant

Fran Tarkenton

Alan Page

Best Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore

Alan Page

Randall McDaniel

Randy Moss

Adrian Peterson

My Favorite Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore

Alan Page

Cris Carter

John Randle

Harrison Smith

Best of the 1960s Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore

Jim Marshall

Fran Tarkenton

Mick Tingelhoff

Carl Eller

Best of the 1970s Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore

Alan Page

Fran Tarkenton

Chuck Foreman 

Ron Yary

Best of the 1980s Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore

Chris Doleman

Joey Browner

Keith Millard

Anthony Carter

Best of the 1990s Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore

Randall McDaniel

John Randle

Cris Carter

Randy Moss

Best of the 2000s Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore

Randy Moss

Kevin Williams

Antoine Winfield

Adrian Peterson

Best of the 2010s Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore

Adrian Peterson

Jared Allen

Harrison Smith

Danielle Hunter

So Far Best of the 2020s Minnesota Vikings Mount Rushmore

Justin Jefferson

Christian Darrisaw

Danielle Hunter

Harrison Smith

For a team that has never won that ultimate trophy, the Minnesota Vikings have a ridiculous number of Hall of Famers, should-be Hall of Famers, and general all-time greats. Even with the above expanded Mount Rushmores, so many deserving of inclusion have been missed. 

Paul Krause

Gary Zimmerman

Steve Hutchinson

All three have a bust in Canton. All three somehow slip through the above Mount Rushmores. 

Some other greats deserving of mention:

Grady Alderman

Ahmad Rashad

Matt Blair

Scott Studwell

Robert Smith

Chad Greenway

Everson Griffen

That’s just a start.

Ed White

Bobby Bryant

Steve Jordan

Carl Lee

Kyle Rudolph

Adam Thielen 

Dalvin Cook

In only four seasons, Justin Jefferson is kicking at the doors to some of these all-time Mount Rushmores. I could never imagine a receiver ever touching Cris Carter and Randy Moss. In my opinion, those two are among the best receivers to ever play the game. Their Canton busts are proof of that. Moss is arguably the most gifted receiver in league history. Carter is arguably the best pass catcher. How is it possible that a Vikings receiver is within reasonable grasp of such all-time greats after only four seasons? Jefferson is on the fast track to being an all-time franchise great and one of the most important players in franchise history. The Vikings might not be gifted with trophies but they sure have been gifted with receivers. 

Now, back to the stressful wait for one of the most significant drafts in Vikings franchise history. 

Post-Diggs Trade Flea Flicker Mock Draft

A reason is rarely needed for a new mock draft. Whether needed or not, this week’s trade of receiver Stefon Diggs from the Buffalo Bills to the Houston Texans is a reason for a new mock draft. The addition of the squirrelly receiver does nothing to the first round plans of the Texans. They have no first round pick. The Minnesota Vikings have it. The trade does impact the first round plans of the Bills. That’s the reason for this unnecessary mock draft. 

The Vikings trade #11, #23, and a 2025 first to the Patriots for #3. In reality, there are probably some later picks involved to balance things. For this fake trade, only the first round picks are significant. 

1. Chicago Bears (via Carolina): Caleb Williams, QB, USC

2. Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

3. Minnesota Vikings (trade w/New England): Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

4. Arizona Cardinals: Marvin Harrison Jr., QR, Ohio State

5. Los Angeles Chargers: Rome Odunze, Washington 

6. New York Giants: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

7. Tennessee Titans: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

8. Atlanta Falcons: Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

9. Chicago Bears: Laiatu Latu, Edge, UCLA

10. New York Jets: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

11. New England Patriots (trade w/Minnesota): Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

12. Denver Broncos: J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

13. Las Vegas Raiders: Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington

14. New Orleans Saints: JC Latham, OT, Alabama

15. Indianapolis Colts: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

16. Seattle Seahawks: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State

17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

18. Cincinnati Bengals: Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

19. Los Angeles Rams: Jared Verse, Edge, Florida State

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

21. Miami Dolphins: Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

22. Philadelphia Eagles: Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

23. New England Patriots (trade w/Minnesota): Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

24. Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

25. Green Bay Packers: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

27. Arizona Cardinals (via Houston): Darius Robinson, Edge, Missouri

28. Buffalo Bills: Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

29. Detroit Lions: Bralen Trice, Edge, Washington

30. Baltimore Ravens: Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona

31. San Francisco 49ers: Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU

Until the next one. 

Another Minnesota Vikings 7-Round Mock Draft

This Minnesota Vikings 7-Round Mock Draft uses the footwork of the Athletic’s Alec Lewis. This morning, he released his Minnesota Vikings 2024 Draft Big Board: 10 players who make sense in each round. For this 7-round mock, Lewis selected the possible players for each round and I made each pick from that list of players. 

Vikings draft picks:

Round 1(11)

Round 1(23)

Round 4(108)

Round 4(129)

Round 5(157)

Round 5(167)

Round 6(177)

Round 7(230)

Round 7(232)

Round 1:

Lewis’ options:

Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

Jared Verse, Edge, Florida State

Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington

Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

The pick:

Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Round 1 is all about the quarterback. Right now and through the draft, the only option for me is the Vikings trading their two first round picks, and perhaps future picks, for a shot at one of the top quarterbacks. There’s no waiting for some slappy to drop. Get that quarterback! I feel that quarterback comes down to Drake Maye or J.J. McCarthy. I’m fine with either. At times, I favor Maye. Other times, I favor McCarthy. Right now, I guess I’m favoring Maye. The Vikings have a ridiculously great infrastructure for a rookie quarterback. He’ll be blessed with offensive/quarterback coaches Kevin O’Connell, Josh McCown, Wes Phillips, Chris O’Hara, Grant Udinski. He’ll be further blessed by an offense filled with playmakers and protection in Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson, Jordan Addison, Aaron Jones, Christian Darrisaw, and Brian O’Neill. With Sam Darnold as a potential “bridge” quarterback there’s really no rush to the field for the rookie. Maye, McCarthy, any talented rookie quarterback will be in a very positive environment. 

The Vikings currently have no picks in the second or third round. Lewis provided 10 players for that part of the draft. Maybe Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah can work the draft to generate a Day 2 pick. For now, I’m skipping that possibility. It’s on to Day 3.

Round 4:

Lewis’ options:

MarShawn Loyd, RB, USC

Mekhi Wingo, DT, LSU

Mohamed Kamara, Edge, Colorado State

Cam Hart, CB, Notre Dame

Cole Bishop, S, Utah

Jalyx Hunt, Edge, Houston Christian

Marist Liufau, LB, Notre Dame

Spencer Rattler, QB, South Carolina

Malik Washington, WR, Virginia

Bucky Irving, RB, Oregon

This is tough. After getting that quarterback, I have defensive tackle and left guard as the Vikings biggest needs. Mohamed Kamara and Malik Washington are two of my mid-round favorites. Instead of grabbing one of them, I have to stretch things a bit by going with one of Lewis’ picks for the second/third rounds.

The pick:

Zak Zinter, G, Michigan

I’m hoping that the brutal leg injury that Zak Zinter suffered at the end of last season drops him to the fourth round. Healthy, Zinter is one of the best interior offensive linemen in the draft. I’m hoping that he’s available in the fourth round.

As for the second fourth round pick:

Cam Hart, CB, Notre Dame

I’m passing on a defensive tackle to select a big corner that moves like a smaller corner. 

Round 5:

Lewis’ options:

Cedric Gray, LB, North Carolina

Nehemiah Pritchett, CB, Auburn

Will Reichard, K, Alabama

Kamal Hadden, CB, Tennessee

Ray Davis, RB, Kentucky

Khristian Boyd, DT, Northern Iowa

Austin Booker, Edge, Kansas

Jaylon Carlies, S/CB, Missouri

Justin Eboige, ST, Alabama

Ty’Ron Hopper, LB, Missouri

The picks:

Khristian Boyd, DT, Northern Iowa

Austin Booker, Edge, Kansas

Khristian Boyd has received a decent amount of attention from teams during the visit circuit. That’s because he was the biggest snub of the Scouting Combine. Austin Booker could be one of the biggest steals of the draft. His college career didn’t go as hoped but he has the natural talent to be an elite pass rusher in the NFL. With Boyd and Booker, the fifth round could be a difference-maker for a Vikings defense in real need of a talent boost. 

Round 6:

Lewis’ options:

Javon Solomon, Edge, Troy

Cody Schrader, RB, Missouri

Tory Taylor, P, Iowa

Jordan Travis, QB, Florida State

Michael Barrett, LB, Michigan

Marcus Harris, DT, Auburn

Jha’Quan Jackson, WR, Tulane

Trente Jones, G, Michigan

Joshua Karty, K, Stanford

Jase McClellan, RB, Alabama

It’s tempting to pick a kicker or punter in this draft. I’m not all that opposed to it but I believe that the Vikings are in greater need of football players. 

The pick:

Marcus Harris, DT, Auburn

I’d like to pick Javon Solomon. Instead, I’ll add to the defensive interior. 

Round 7:

Lewis’ options:

Xavier Thomas, Edge, Clemson

Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint, WR, Georgia

Javion Cohen, G, Miami

Brevyn Spann-Ford, TE, Minnesota

KT Leveston, OL, Kansas State

Kalen DeLoach, LB, Florida State

JD Bertrand, LB, Notre Dame

Jordan Whittington, WR, Texas

Cedric Johnson, Edge, Mississippi

Kendall Milton, RB, Georgia

Linebacker depth, receiver depth, running back depth, offensive line depth, special teams? All are still needs. 

The picks:

Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint, WR, Georgia

KT Leveston, OL, Kansas State

Another Minnesota Vikings 7-Round Mock Draft:

Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Zak Zinter, G, Michigan

Cam Hart, CB, Notre Dame

Khristian Boyd, DT, Northern Iowa

Austin Booker, Edge, Kansas

Marcus Harris, DT, Auburn

Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint, WR, Georgia

KT Leveston, OL, Kansas State

Flea Flicker Top 25 Draft Prospects

Daniel Jeremiah dropped his fourth Top 50 of the draft evaluation season. It felt like the right time to drop another Top 25. Here’s a look at some of the best prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft.

1.   Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

2.   Caleb Williams, QB, USC

3.   Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

4.   Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

5.   Drake Maye, North Carolina 

6.   Jayden Daniels, LSU

7.   Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

8.   Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

9.   Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

10. Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

11. J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

12. Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

13. Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

14. Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington

15. Byron Murphy Jr., DT, Texas

16. Laiatu Latu, Edge, UCLA

17. Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State

18. JC Latham, OT, Alabama

19. Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

20. Chop Robinson, Edge, Penn State

21. Jared Verse, Edge, Florida State

22. Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

23. Darius Robinson, DT, Missouri

24. Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

25. Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

I wouldn’t be disappointed if the 2024 Draft fell exactly like this. That would give the Minnesota Vikings J.J. McCarthy at #11 and Darius Robinson at #23. That would be a first round dream. 

End The Quarterback Search!

The Minnesota Vikings must find their quarterback of the future in this draft. They cut the six-year tie to Kirk Cousins in March. They signed Sam Darnold to a one-year, place-holder deal. They hold the 11th pick in a draft that’s topped by four, maybe two more, talented quarterbacks. They added a second first-round pick through a trade with the Houston Texans. Armed with the 11th and 23rd pick, the Vikings have the draft capital, and the apparent willingness to use it, to trade to the top of the draft. 

Since Fran Tarkenton retired in 1978, the Minnesota Vikings have been searching for their next franchise quarterback. There’s been a long line of contenders. Tommy Kramer was the first. He was selected in the first round of the 1977 NFL Draft. He was drafted to replace Tarkenton. At times, Kramer was a brilliant, thrilling gunslinger. Unfortunately, injuries peppered his entire career. Over 13 seasons in Minnesota, he played every game only once. The 1990s were mostly successful. The Vikings were playoff contenders but the decade was a revolving door of older quarterbacks. Jim McMahon, Warren Moon, and Randall Cunningham. A young Rich Gannon was shipped out of town before he even really had a chance. In 1999, the Vikings thought that they had finally drafted their franchise quarterback. Daunte Culpepper appeared to be on his way until a knee injury ruined his run in 2005. In 2014, the Vikings took another first-round swing at a quarterback with Teddy Bridgewater. After a promising 2015 season, his knee exploded on the eve of the 2016 season. Since 1978, the quarterback search has been filled with misses, old guys, and injury-ravaged potential. It’s been a long, rough search.

This year might be the best opportunity of my lifetime for the Vikings to finally end this decades-long quarterback search. They are close enough to the top of a talented quarterback draft. They have the draft capital to get even closer to the top of the draft. They just need to find a trade partner. The Vikings also have the infrastructure in place for a young quarterback to thrive. Head coach Kevin O’Connell is a former NFL quarterback and emerging play-caller. Newly hired quarterbacks coach Josh McCown is also a former NFL quarterback and promising young coach. A rookie quarterback will be surrounded by coaching assets. O’Connell, McCown, Wes Phillips, Chris O’Hara, and Grant Udinski will be tasked with getting the quarterback ready. The Vikings offense is loaded with playmakers. Justin Jefferson is the best receiver in the league. T.J. Hockenson is one of the best tight ends in the league. Aaron Jones, Jordan Addison, Ty Chandler, Josh Oliver, Johnny Mundt. The Vikings have outstanding offensive tackles in Christian Darrisaw and Brian O’Neill. With Sam Darnold, there is really no rush to the field. From coaches to players, a rookie quarterback couldn’t land in a better environment. 

With everything in place, the Vikings must find their quarterback. Personally, I hope that they trade up for Drake Maye or J.J. McCarthy, perhaps Jayden Daniels. It takes two to trade. Now, I’m at the point where no price is too high to trade. The Vikings might not see it that way. If they can’t make that trade up, I do like Michael Penix Jr., perhaps Bo Nix as well, later in the first round. The most important thing is that I trust Kevin O’Connell and the coaches to know and recognize what they want in their quarterback. I will have faith in them and whichever quarterback they pick. The only thing that I demand is that they find him and draft him. End the quarterback search. It’s gone on for too damn long. 

Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft Tracker

It’s April! NFL Draft Month is here. 

24 more days of speculation.

Here are some of the most recent mock draft predictions for the Minnesota Vikings.

NFL.com’s Daniel Jeremiah:

1(4): J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Projected trade: Vikings send #11 and #23 to the Arizona Cardinals for #4.

NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks:

1(11). Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

1(23). Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

Brooks doesn’t include trades in his mocks so the Vikings get lucky in his projection.

NFL.com’s Charles Davis:

1(11). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

1(23). Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

NFL.com’s Eric Edholm:

1(4). Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Another projected trade with the Cardinals.

NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein:

1(11). Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

NFL.com’s Cynthia Frelund:

1(11). Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

It should be noted that the mock drafts of Zierlein and Frelund were posted before the Vikings acquired a second first round pick from the Houston Texans. 

NFL.com’s Chad Reuter: 

1(4). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Another projected trade with the Cardinals.

3(71). Brandon Dorlus, DT, Oregon

4(108). Christian Mahogany, G, Boston College

ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr.:

1(11). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

1(23). Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

ESPN’s Field Yates:

1(5). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Projected trade: The Vikings acquire the fifth pick from the Los Angeles Chargers. 

ESPN’s Jordan Reid:

1(11). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

ESPN’s Matt Miller:

1(3). Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Projected trade: The acquire the third pick from the New England Patriots.

4(108). Myles Harden, CB, South Dakota

4(129). Javontae Jean-Baptiste, DE, Notre Dame

5(157). Isaac Guerendo, RB, Louisville

5(167). Nehemiah Pritchett, CB, Auburn

6(177). Jha’Quan, WR, Tulane

7(230). Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint, WR, Georgia

7(232). Cedric Johnson, DE, Mississippi

Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer:

1(11). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

1(23). Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

CBS Sports’ Will Brinson:

1(5). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Projected trade: The Vikings send #11 and #23 to the Los Angeles Chargers for #5.

CBS Sports’ Ryan Wilson:

1(5). J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Another projected trade with the Chargers.

CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso:

1(3). Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Projected trade: The Vikings trade all the way to #3 with the New England Patriots. 

***

Every mock draft of note since the trade for an an extra first has the Vikings selecting J.J. McCarthy or Drake Maye. This must happen. 

24 more days.