Welcome to SKOL Search!
This series will be your guide to the 2024 draft class. From scouting reports to mock drafts and exploring different scenarios, we will be covering the NFL draft and the future of the Minnesota Vikings from all angles.
The focus of the draft class in this space will be on the Vikings’ major needs at quarterback, running back, defensive line and edge rusher. We will also focus on wide receiver since it’s a loaded class and an increased chance to get a Stefon Diggs-type steal in the later rounds.
The Vikings are slated to have 9 picks going into the NFL draft and they need to make the most out of them.undefined
Background
Braden Fiske
- Florida State
- Transfer from Western Michigan
- Height-6035
- Weight-295 lbs
- Sixth-year senior
- 3-Star recruit per 247 Sports
- Stats: 191 tackles, 93 solo, 36.0 tackles for loss, 19.5 sacks, 3 passes defended, 3 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries
- Games watched: LSU 2023, Boston College 2023, Duke 2023, Florida 2023, Louisville 2023
Strengths
Fiske is incredibly quick. He bursts out of the block and gains ground really quick both vertically and laterally. When he rushes the passer, Fiske explodes forward often preventing the offensive lineman from fully engaging.
Despite his short arms, Fiske stacks blockers very well. He gets underneath the blockers pads and can successfully two-gap in the run and pass games. Is comfortable shedding blocks and always
Displays a lethal swim move on the inside. His quickness makes the move incredibly lethal.
Weaknesses
Measurables are going to be the biggest question mark for Fiske. His arms measured in at only 31″, around 3″ short of the 34″ threshold. It becomes an issue when taking on double teams.
Struggles with a pass-rush plan at times. Relies a little too much on his speed/quickness and doesn’t have a move to pair with it too often.
Can be taken advantage of on the backside. Gets washed out a little too easily.
Power isn’t his game. Fiske wins with speed and rarely shows any sort of power prowess. His short arms can come into play here as offensive lineman can anchor and keep him from gaining leverage.
Overview
| Quickness/Penetration | 17.4/20 |
| Power | 7.4/10 |
| Pass Rush Moves | 7.8/10 |
| Counters | 7.3/10 |
| Leverage | 7.8/10 |
| Tackling | 8.1/10 |
| Size/Length | 6.5/10 |
| Run Defense | 8.1/10 |
| Awareness | 8.0/10 |
| Grade | 78.4/100 Third Round |
Fiske is going to be an interesting evaluation. He is a great pentrator as a 3T but his arm length sitting at only 31″ is potentially a major road block to being a succesful pro. He might be able to overcome some of that due to his elite level quickness but the length liklely pushes him out of the top 50, potentially the top 75.
