5 linebackers the Vikings could select in the 2019 NFL Draft
By Chris Schad
The Minnesota Vikings dodged a bullet with the return of Anthony Barr, but they could still look for a linebacker in the NFL Draft to add depth.
The Minnesota Vikings depth chart at linebacker dodged a major bullet this offseason. With Anthony Barr’s potential free agency putting the entire defense in limbo, hearts collectively skipped a beat when the linebacker tentatively agreed to a deal with the New York Jets. However, just 24 hours later, Barr had a change of heart and headed back to Minnesota on a lucrative contract.
Barr’s 180 was huge for the Vikings as they no longer have the instant need of filling a starting spot at linebacker. With Barr, Eric Kendricks and Ben Gedeon to go with Eric Wilson, Mike Zimmer has a strong stable of linebackers to work with as they enter the 2019 NFL Draft.
But just like any position, the search for depth is something that never ends. Although the Vikings are unlikely to select an impact linebacker such as Devin White of LSU, they could use the draft to have a solid backup plan in case of injury or ineffectiveness.
This year’s class has plenty of strong prospects and presents another opportunity for the Vikings defense to get even stronger in 2019.