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.
Background
Jared Verse
- Florida State
- Transfer from Albany
- Height-6040
- Weight-250 lbs
- Fifth-year senior
- 0-Star recruit per 247 Sports
- Stats (at Florida State): 83 tackles, 40 solo, 26.5 tackles for loss, 16.0 sacks, 3 passes defended, 1 forced fumble, 2 fumble recoveries
- Games watched: LSU 2023, Clemson 2023, Florida 2023
Strengths
Verse is a fun player. Has a really quick first step that helps him explode out of the blocks.
Verse is a well-rounded player. He has grown man strength. When he engages with an offensive lineman, they aren’t going to be able to drive home off his spot.
He is an athletic player with a good motor. Can close off angles on the edge and prevent ball carriers from gaining it to take the ball upfield.
Displays active hands to counter to prevent the offensive lineman from engaging. He swats away hands with ease and does so consistently.
Solid in run defense due to his strength and relentless motor. Is very difficult to move.
Weaknesses
Verse is a good athlete but doesn’t have that second step after he gets off the ball. Great burst but doesn’t have the long speed that is needed at times.
While Verse is a good athlete, he plays too upright and stiff. Needs to loosen up and increase his pliability.
His pass rush plan also needs some work. When he has a plan, it often works. However, he goes in blind too often and is rendered ineffective.
Overview
| Bend | 7.9/10 |
| Quickness/Burst | 13.7/15 |
| Finesse | 4.3/5 |
| Power | 4.8/5 |
| Counters | 8.4/10 |
| Awareness | 8.4/10 |
| Run Defense | 8.3/10 |
| Versatility | 8.4/10 |
| Size/Length | 13.4/15 |
| Tackling | 8.1/10 |
| Grade | 85.7/100 First round |
