When looking at mock drafts across the ecosphere, it’s fascinating to see how everyone approaches them for the Minnesota Vikings. They are really interesting to see how things grow throughout the process which is why our mock draft roundup is a really cool tool to utilize.
The Athletic gathered their beat writers to do a mock draft collectively and Vikings beat writer Alec Lewis selected Alabama edge rusher Dallas Turner with the 11th overall pick.
The Vikings were willing to move up to snag a quarterback, but the price was too high. The Vikings were also willing to move down to add more premium picks to the holster, but there were few takers. In the end, Turner made too much sense. Minnesota needs defensive talent, and while Texas defensive tackle Byron Murphy II and Florida State defensive end Jared Verse offered intrigue, Turner is the best fit. He’s young. He’s productive. He’s versatile. He’s dogged. Minnesota hasn’t drafted a player on the defensive front in Round 1 since 2013, and it’s time to change that.
Lewis did mention on social media that he tried to make multiple trades up to likely get a quarterback but was shut down. Taking a talented edge rusher is a smart move, but is it the right move?
Currently, Turner is my fourth-ranked edge with a second round grade. There is a lot of potential but there is a lot for him to learn and develop. Would Turner be a good pick for the Vikings? We might find out come April.
