Round 1, Pick 18: Dalton Risner, OT, Kansas State
This pick might qualify as a surprise for some, but the NFL is a lot higher on players like Dalton Risner than draft media. He’s bringing the kind of starting experience and positional versatility that teams covet; guys like him usually get selected much earlier in the first round than the average mock draft predicts.
The best thing about the Risner pick for the Vikings is that he can serve whatever role the team needs in 2019. Is the need at tackle? Guard? Great, Risner’s your guy.
Plus, Risner will bring the kind of angry demeanor fans can rally behind on Sundays. He’ll blast open running lanes for Dalvin Cook and punch oncoming pass rushers right in the mouth. You want tone-setters like Risner, especially with an offensive line searching for respect and a new identity.