5 defensive ends the Vikings could select in the 2019 NFL Draft

Anthony Nelson (Iowa)

Measurements:

Height: 6-foot-7 | Weight: 271 pounds

2018 Stats:

• 45 tackles (13.5 for a loss)
• 9.5 sacks, 1 fumble recovery

Nelson may actually have the best chance of any defensive end on this list to end up in purple. He’s projected to come off the board sometime between rounds three and five and that is where the Vikings are more likely to select a pass rusher, as it is not one of their primary needs.

The first thing that stands out about Nelson is his massive size. This guy is basically a giant. A man this big is usually limited athletically and Nelson is probably the least athletically gifted guy on this list.

He does get off the ball quickly though and he uses his long arms to create separation between his blocker. He also has a nice swim move and he can power his way through blocks. He is much better moving forward than side to side.

While he does have his limitations athletically, he still moves plenty fast for a man so big and he can get to where he needs to be.

Nelson will need a year or two of coaching up and he may not see the field a ton as a rookie. His size absolutely cannot be taught, however, and he has all the tools to be a successful NFL defensive end. It may just take him a year or two to realize that potential.

(For more NFL Draft and Vikings-related content from Nik Edlund, head on over to SkolHole.com and check out his work.)