The Minnesota Vikings could go a myriad of directions in the NFL draft. There are talks about moving up for a quarterback or moving down to collect more draft capital.
In his seven round mock draft, ESPN’s Jordan Reid had the Vikings staying put and taking USC WR Jordan Addison at 23rd overall.
With only five total picks, I would be surprised if the Vikings actually remained here and made a selection. They are a prime trade-back candidate. Still, after the release of Adam Thielen, there’s a gaping hole at the WR2 spot opposite Justin Jefferson. Addison would give the offense another versatile player who can line up inside and outside. A detailed route runner, Addison has physical traits that are similar to those of Calvin Ridley, who was a first-round pick in 2018. Addison’s success in multiple offensive schemes (Pitt and USC) will help his NFL value. Addison could thrive off the attention given to Jefferson by defensive coordinators.
The idea of getting Addison is a great one for the Vikings. He is a dynamic receiver that can get open with both technique and quickness. His size will be a concern
The Vikings also get a developmental quarterback in UCLA’s Dorian Thompson-Robinson in the fourth round and Reid called it his favorite fit in round one.
Kirk Cousins is entering the final year of his contract, and it’s clear the Vikings want to keep their quarterback options open. Thompson-Robinson would provide them with a cheap backup who could be groomed as an eventual successor for Cousins. Thompson-Robinson is viewed as a notch below the top five quarterbacks in this class, but his stock has risen after an impressive pre-draft process.
Here is the full outcome of picks that Reid had the Vikings taking.
- 23. Jordan Addison, WR, USC
- 87. Owen Pappoe, LB, Auburn
- 119. Dorian Thompson-Robinson, QB, UCLA
- 158. Jalen Redmond, IDL, Oklahoma
- 211. Kei’Trel Clark, CB, Louisville
