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Minnesota Vikings: Looking forward to the 2021 NFL Draft

By Geoffrey Godfrey

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - AUGUST 28: A general view of U.S. Bank Stadium as the Minnesota Vikings practice during training camp on August 28, 2020 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - AUGUST 28: A general view of U.S. Bank Stadium as the Minnesota Vikings practice during training camp on August 28, 2020 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
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Minnesota Vikings: Looking forward to the 2021 NFL Draft
Minnesota Vikings: Looking forward to the 2021 NFL Draft. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

What are some of the bigger needs entering 2021?

The Vikings are coming into the NFL draft with a good handful of picks, while they only have 2 in the first three rounds, we could see that number jump up. Having several players who they need to cut or trade, mixed with later-round picks they can slide back into the third or even second round.

As it sits right now they have five positions they need to target heading into the draft.

Left Tackle

Riley Reiff looks to be on his way out, and there are no other elite players on that offensive line. QB Kirk Cousins needs to stay upright to be able to make his gaudy contract worthwhile, if they pay Dalvin Cook having a weak offensive line is just like throwing money away.

Outside Linebacker

They were able to bring back Anthony Barr, but outside of him and Erick Kendricks they don’t have much depth or talent. Ben Gedeon doesn’t look to be on the roster in 2021 leaving an open slot. Erick Kendricks looks the part having four consecutive 100 tackle seasons, and Barr is a familiar name for well-rated linebackers.

Defensive Tackle

Current number one starter Jaleel Johnson is their only real threat to rush the passer from that spot. With adding Jags star Yannick Ngakoue as a defensive end paring a solid defensive tackle to match with him and Danielle Hunter on the other side, could make for a top-end pass-rushing defensive line.

Wide Receiver

Yes, they just drafted an elite prospect in Justin Jefferson out of LSU at wide receiver and the Vikings still have the ever-surprising Adam Thielen. However, Thielen will be 31 by the time the 2021 season starts, and their current back up after them is unproven Bisi Johnson. While there is not as much depth at WR this year in the draft, there should be a solid chance for them to take an instant playmaker early.

Notable mention

Cornerback on paper looks like a need, but if the Vikings can develop Jeff Gladney and Cameron Dantzler correctly, paring them with Mike Hughes makes for a great three cornerback set with lots of youth.

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