As the NFL Draft approaches, the Minnesota Vikings must address several needs, especially at wide receiver and cornerback positions.
Currently, the Vikings have Harrison Smith and Cam Bynum and in last year’s draft, they selected safety Lewis Cine in the first round. Those three make it unlikely for the team to prioritize selecting another safety early on or at all.
It’s still important to examine the safety draft class. Let’s take one safety option for the Vikings in each round of the draft.
Round 1: Alabama’s Brian Branch
Brian Branch isn’t just a safety, he’s a versatile defender who has excelled at playing multiple positions across the defense. He shows outstanding play recognition and can be disruptive in both pass and run defense. If the Vikings were to draft him, their defense would instantly receive a boost.
Round 2: Alabama’s Jordan Battle
Battle possesses the ability to play both safety positions and has good size. He willingly defends against the run and has good enough speed to keep up with receivers during pass coverage. Safety is not considered a premium position, which may result in him not being drafted until at least the second round.
Round 3: Illinois’ Sydney Brown
Brown has good quickness and burst and demonstrated some position flexibility during his time in college. Despite his willingness to tackle, he tends to be inconsistent and gets overpowered by opponents. It’ll be necessary for teams to help Brown develop his skills at the next level. If he does he has the potential to become a reliable safety in the NFL.
Round 4: Florida States’ Jammie Robinson
Robinson has position versatility and is really explosive. During his college career, he played safety, nickel and linebacker positions. He approaches the game with passion and is always willing to make tackles. Despite his smaller size, Robinson has all the traits of a promising prospect. His explosiveness might tempt teams to consider selecting him earlier than the fourth round.
Round 5: Boise State’s JL Skinner
Skinner stands out as one of the most physically gifted safeties in this draft class. He has an impressive level of toughness and is notorious for his big hits. His coverage skills may need some improvement, as he struggles with stiffness at times. Despite this, he has the potential to excel as a special teams player and could even earn a starting safety role if he develops. One reason Skinner will be available in this spot is that he tore his pectoral training.
Round 6: Penn State’s Ji’Ayir Brown
Brown excels as a run defender, and he has also shown glimpses of his ability in pass coverage. However, his performance in college was marked by inconsistency, and he doesn’t have the most graceful playing style. Teams should consider Brown as a late-round draft option due to his potential to contribute to their special team unit.
Round 7: California’s Daniel Scott
Scott has the ideal size to play safety and his speed allows him to keep up with opposing wide receivers. However, his inconsistent play and technique may hinder his potential. There is still value in his abilities as he is well-suited for a special teams role at the next level.
