David Edwards (Wisconsin)
If the Vikings still need an offensive tackle in the mid rounds, then they could look to this big boy from the farmlands of Wisconsin.
Edwards has the size at 6-foot-6 and 308 pounds and the long arms to hold up on the outside. He isn’t like most offensive line prospects in that he is a former high school option quarterback who just grew too big.
This guy definitely has the athletic ability and quickness to pop out of his stance and move laterally to keep up with any defenders. Getting to the second level quickly is no problem for this former Badger either.
Edwards does have areas he needs to improve on. He needs to play with more power. Rarely do you see this guy pancake his man, he is more of a push blocker that gets in the way long enough for the pass to get off or the hole to stay open.
He also needs work on his technique. Edwards is still fairly new at the position, as he was tried at tight end before becoming a tackle and he needs to refine his footwork and hand placement. He is far from a finished product and he needs a lot of reps before he’s anywhere close to starting a game in the pros.
One thing the Wisconsin football program does well though is produce quality NFL offensive lineman. Edwards has the tools to be the next one, he just needs some coaching up and time.
The Vikings could bring him along slowly his rookie year, get him acclimated to the pace of the NFL, and make him a more technically aware as a blocker. Edwards’ upside is very high, he just needs a little time to reach it.