Vikings Dream Draft: What if Minnesota could pick any player they desired in 2017?

2 of 9

Sep 17, 2016; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) is defended by Mississippi State Bulldogs defensive back Lashard Durr (25) during the first quarter of a game at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

First selection:

*Leonard Fournette, RB – LSU***

6-feet
240 pounds

40-yard dash: 4.51 seconds

Career stats:

3,830 rushing yards, 6.2 yards per carry, 40 touchdowns
41 catches, 526 receiving yards, 12.8 yards per catch, one touchdown

As soon as the Vikings declined to pick up Adrian Peterson’s contract option for 2017, running back became an immediate need for Minnesota this offseason. The Vikings have signed a talented back in Latavius Murray, but he likely will not be the team’s top option in their backfield for the long run.

Fournette’s chance for success in the NFL is arguably as good as any running back’s available in this year’s draft class. By selecting Fournette, Minnesota would potentially have a player more than capable of filling the void in their backfield left by Peterson.

The former LSU running back’s combination of power and speed has actually drawn himself some comparisons to Peterson. Plus, the Vikings know Fournette looked good while playing in purple at LSU and would not want him to experience the trauma of wearing a different colored jersey in the NFL.

Home/Minnesota Vikings News