While it’s very likely that Bortles could be off the board before the Vikings are on the clock, this would be the ideal situation for Minnesota. The UCF product is a well-rounded quarterback, with plus athleticism, a terrific arm and the size/speed/strength combo to make plays with his feet. The Vikings need a new quarterback under center in 2014, and Bortles would be a terrific route to take moving forward. If he's available at No. 8, this is a no-brainer.
With Xavier Rhodes solidified as one starting cornerback, the Vikings need another top-flight cover man to handle the opposite side of the field. Fuller isn’t a finished product, but what he’s shown during his time at Virginia Tech is more than enough to warrant a second-round pick. He’s physical, tough and a punishing hitter. Plus, he’s pretty good at keeping opposing receivers in check. The Vikings need to set a physical tone moving forward, and Fuller is a great way to do exactly that.
Seeing as Kevin Williams will likely leave via free agency, the Vikings need some more help at defensive tackle. Sharrif Floyd is expected to take over the three-technique, but Minnesota has long been disappointed with their nose tackle play. Jones has the size and strength to help give them a dominant presence in the middle of the defensive front. He’s powerful, stout against the run and offers some pass rush ability as well. Sounds like a much better option than continuing to settle on Letroy Guion.
After the release of Erin Henderson, the Vikings are in serious need of a new middle linebacker. Seeing as they have limited options currently on the roster, adding a player like Zumwalt to the mix makes plenty of sense. The former Bruin is a hard-nosed, physical player who thrives on dominating his opposition. He flies to the football against the run, and shows good awareness as a pass defender. If the Vikings want someone to set an aggressive tone for their defense, Zumwalt is the man to do it.
Charlie Johnson is headed for free agency and might not be re-signed. The next option at left guard is Jeff Baca, a second-year player who saw all of four snaps during his rookie season. That’s why bringing in more capable bodies at guard makes sense for the Vikings. Linder is big, but uses his quick feet and fluid athleticism to be a reliable blocker. His strength and confidence will need some work at the next level, but he would easily be a valuable asset in Minnesota.
Depending on what happens during free agency, the Vikings might not have a need for wide receiver depth. In this case, though, let’s assume that they do. Snead isn’t an electric receiver who is going to burn corners for long touchdowns or turn slants into six points. Instead, Snead is a reliable receiver who catches everything that comes his way and uses his smarts to create separation. The Vikings must be tired of inconsistent receivers like Jerome Simpson, and that’s why Snead is a great fit.
Considering how awful the Vikings were at cornerback last season, adding more than one via the draft might just be necessary. They already landed Fuller in the second round, and bring in more depth in the form of Jackson. The Vikings have recently been fond of Notre Dame defensive backs, and Jackson is the latest in a long line of playmakers. With outstanding leadership skills and the coverage instincts a coach would love to work with, Jackson seems like a solid project for the Vikings to develop.
Barring something unforeseen, Jared Allen won’t be with the Vikings in 2014. If that’s the case, they’ll need to go out and find some extra help at defensive end. While free agency might be the best option, bringing in some depth via the draft wouldn’t hurt. Gardner is a middle-round talent who should fall due to injury issues. If the Vikings can develop him slowly and give him the time/coaching he needs, the Stanford alum has the tools to grow into a quality defensive end.
Gil Alcaraz IV is the Director of Content for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @GilAlcarazIV, like him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
