NFL Draft 2018: Minnesota Vikings 7-round mock draft – 1.0
By Austin Erwin
SamHubbard. 1. DE. Ohio State. player. 60. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
One of the Vikings’ weaknesses in 2017 was the inability to rotate on the defensive line. Players like Everson Griffen, Linval Joseph, and even Tom Johnson were on the field for too many snaps.
Even with star players, it is important to rotate depth guys and keep the starters fresh.
This is where Sam Hubbard comes in. Hubbard is the type of player that just fits the mentality of Minnesota head coach Mike Zimmer.
He’s scrappy, fundamentally sound and has versatility to play inside and outside. He is not going to out-athlete many of his peers but his motor never quits.
Hubbard is skilled at finding the ball carrier and staying in position to make the tackle. He is going to be an excellent in run support and he has raw ability as a pass rusher. Hubbard is a smart player and is aware of play-action fakes and opposing players heading his way.
If he can find a way to improve in rushing the quarterback, he could quickly go from starting potential to a Pro Bowl-caliber player.