Pro Football Focus put together a list of offensive players each NFL team should watch ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft. To some surprise, PFF has the Vikings keeping tabs on Iowa Hawkeyes tight end Luke Lachey. Even though Minnesota has TJ Hockenson—a former Iowa tight end—PFF believes the Vikings could unleash a true two-tight end set with Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison at receiver.
Yes, the Vikings have T.J. Hockenson. No, this isn’t a move to replace him; we’re setting up an impressive and impactful two-tight end offense that can complement wide receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison.
Adding Lachey, who would have likely been a top-100 pick in 2023 had he not broken his ankle early in the season, would make for a legit heavy personnel group from which Minnesota could run or pass.
Lachey has been at Iowa since 2020 and was in store for a big year in 2023, but was forced out of action after just three games due to injuries. Lachey chose to go back to the Hawkeyes for a fifth season.
The Iowa passing game has been terrible, but with quarterback Cade McNamara back after suffering an injury in ’23, the Hawkeyes are hoping to see their passing game take a big step forward with gaining Lachey back.