5 defensive tackles the Vikings could select in the 2019 NFL Draft
By Matt Falk
Christian Wilkins (Clemson)
Measurements:
Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 315 lbs
2018 Stats:
- 51 tackles (14 for a loss)
- 5.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble
Wilkins will be looked at as not only one of the best defensive tackles in this year’s class, but one of the best defenders overall. The Clemson playmaker has been one of the best in college football over the past few seasons. Wilkins is the type of guy that would come in on day one and be an instant starter.
He has all the tools you look for in a defensive tackle to be an anchor for your defense. Wilkins leaves Clemson as one of the best defensive players to ever play for the Tigers.
What makes him so attractive to NFL teams is that he not only does everything well, he does it all at a high level. He can get to the quarterback, he can stuff the run, and he can even get outside to make plays. He also has good size, great athleticism, and he plays like every play might be his last.
When you think of a leader, Wilkins checks all the boxes. He has proven to be a great leader on and off the field at Clemson and he is a guy that a team could build a defense around. While Quinnen Williams and Ed Oliver seem to get the most talk when it comes to defensive tackle, when all is said and done, Wilkins might end up being the best of the bunch.
For the Vikings to take him, it would obviously have to be in round one. With the signing of Shamar Stephen this offseason and last year’s fourth-round selection of Jalyn Holmes, defensive tackle might not be the biggest need. But we have watched Minnesota go with the best player available over need many times over the years. Wilkins would take an already very talented Vikings defensive line and make them even better.