5 Minnesota Vikings storylines to watch during the 2019 NFL Draft
By Chris Schad
Who will the Vikings draft in the first round?
The storyline that will gain the most attention will be who the Vikings select with the 18th overall pick this year. As it stands right now, there are several factors that could determine who could fall to Minnesota when they’re on the clock come Thursday night.
The strength of this year’s draft class begins with the talent along the defensive line. With edge rushers such as Nick Bosa, Josh Allen, and Brian Burns to go with defensive tackle prospects Ed Oliver and Christian Wilkins, there could be a big run at the top of the draft with teams looking for more ways to get to the quarterback.
In addition, the annual quarterback desperation derby has commenced with teams such as the New York Giants and Washington Redskins looking to outbid each other in a weak crop of passers. If one of them decides to get crazy (such as drafting Daniel Jones in the top 10), that could further push top talents down the board.
That makes the Vikings’ current position at puck No. 18 a good one. With teams likely to target other areas ahead of them, there’s a chance that a top offensive line prospect such as Jonah Williams, Jawaan Taylor or Andre Dillard could fall into their lap.
Interior prospects such as Garrett Bradbury and Chris Lindstrom should also be on the board when Minnesota takes their turn.
Even more good news is that there is a possibility that the Vikings may opt to trade down to obtain another top-100 pick, which could allow them to get the guy they want while also increasing their own draft capital.