Heading into the fourth round of the 2015 NFL Draft, one of the top talents still available was Pittsburgh offensive tackle T.J. Clemmings. So when the Minnesota Vikings were on the clock at No. 110 overall, it seemed like a smart decision to go with the hulking blocker.

While this move makes plenty of sense from a value standpoint, the underlying point of emphasis here is proving the Vikings are ready to help running back Adrian Peterson succeed.

There was a lot of talk about the Vikings trading Peterson after he returned from a suspension that saw him miss almost all of his 2014 campaign. Despite some differences between the two sides, it appears Minnesota is ready to move forward with Peterson as its featured back after failing to find a trade partner willing to part with a first-round pick.

By drafting the big, powerful Clemmings, the Vikings are adding yet another excellent run blocker to their offensive line. Although it’s extremely unlikely he’ll immediately eclipse Phil Loadholt for the starting right tackle job, he has the potential to start on the interior or eventually push Matt Kalil for the starting left tackle job.

Clemmings fell to the fourth round due to a concerning foot injury and some rawness from a technique standpoint, but the first-round talent and potential make him well worth the risk. If the former Panther can get healthy and play up to his potential, the Vikings will have found themselves quite the steal.

The Vikings got value and proof that they’re ready to help Peterson succeed with the selection of Clemmings.

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