The Viking Age
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Minnesota Vikings draft 2017: Post-Senior Bowl mock draft

By Jordan Reid

Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announces the number one overall pick in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft at Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announces the number one overall pick in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft at Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 10, 2016; South Bend, IN, USA; Nevada Wolf Pack quarterback Ty Gangi (6) is tackled by Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker James Onwualu (17) in the second quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 10, 2016; South Bend, IN, USA; Nevada Wolf Pack quarterback Ty Gangi (6) is tackled by Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker James Onwualu (17) in the second quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports /

A prospect that started his Notre Dame career as a receiver, Onwualu transitioned to defense after his first collegiate season because of his physicality and competitive nature.

The St. Paul, Minnesota native’s decision to move over to the other side of the ball was voluntary. In the end, it proved to work out.

The Irish linebacker finished the 2016 season as the team’s third-leading tackler with 75, including a team-leading 11.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.

Judging by his stats, Onwualu was active in what was a poor Notre Dame defense. Despite the Irish’s struggles, the team captain continued to standout, as he was selected for the East-West Shrine game.

Oct 18, 2014; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Joe Schmidt (38) and linebacker James Onwualu (17) celebrate after an interception in the second quarter against the Florida State Seminoles at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 18, 2014; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Joe Schmidt (38) and linebacker James Onwualu (17) celebrate after an interception in the second quarter against the Florida State Seminoles at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports /

At 6-foot-1, 230 pounds, Onwuala has positioned himself to be a late-round pick in the upcoming NFL draft.

With Chad Greenway expected to announce his decision on whether to return for another season or retire, the Vikings cannot wait another year to draft an outside linebacker. Signing Emmanuel Lamur was a pure depth signing as he wasn’t expected to be a starter.

With Anthony Barr and Eric Kendricks expected to be the future at Mike (middle) and Sam (strong-side) linebacker positions, it is now time for the franchise to replenish the wealth at Will (weak-side) linebacker.

Being that he is a late-round selection, it is far-fetched to hope Onwuala can be a Week 1 starter next season, but he would be a better athletic option than a 34-year-old Greenway.

NFL Comparison: J.T. Thomas

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