We are just a couple of days away from the NFL draft and it is always fun to make predictions of which players a team will select. The Minnesota Vikings were one of the most intriguing teams in the playoffs last season. We saw one of the most memorable moments by Stefon Diggs and then a completely forgettable performance against the reigning Super Bowl champions.
Last season, Vikings fans witnessed a phenomenal season by QB Case Keenum who had 22 TDs to just seven interceptions. Unfortunately, he is now on the Broncos and naturally you would assume that the starting job would go to Teddy Bridgewater after all that he has been through getting back and getting into a game this season. Instead, the team made a huge splash by signing free agent Kirk Cousins who became the first quarterback with a FULLY guaranteed contract! The three year deal worth $84 million put some very high expectations on Cousins and his offense, but it won’t be easy. The team saw the departure of offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur who accepted the job of head coach for the New York Giants. It could take some time for this offense to fully click given all of the new pieces. It would make sense for the team to use their early draft picks on protecting their new quarterback.
With the 30th overall pick, Minnesota could definitely find a player who would make an immediate impact. The team desperately needs help at the offensive guard position with right guard Joe Berger retiring and left guard Jeremiah Sirles leave via free agency. Many experts predict the Vikings to select Georgia G Isaiah Wynn with their first round pick. Wynn played fifteen games for Georgia at the tackle position, however, during the Senior Bowl he made the transition to guard and was described as the best player on the field.
Dane Brugler from NFLDraftScout.com spoke about Wynn at the senior bowl, “After starting all 15 games last season for the SEC Champions, Wynn made the expected move inside to guard during Senior Bowl week and was dominant. His initial punch, hip sink and balance while mirroring rushers allowed him to control the point of attack. There aren’t 32 better prospects in the 2018 NFL draft than Wynn, giving him a realistic chance at the first round.”
Due to his strong showing at the Senior Bowl, Wynn may not be available at the 30th spot. The team could take a look at UCLA OT Kolton Miller. The team wants to move Mike Remmers back to playing guard so it makes sense for them to want an offensive tackle. He is an athletic tackle who did a good job blocking for Josh Rosen, allowing just two sacks. He got a chance to impress teams at the Combine where he performed exceptionally well. Miller has the potential to be great, but should a team that was so close to winning it all risk their first round pick on potential? We will find out on April 26th at 8:00PM EST in Arlington, Texas.
