3 NCAA programs that have helped the Vikings the most
By Luke Parrish
Minnesota
This one is a bit of an expired truth. The Vikings have spent a total of 20 draft picks on former Minnesota Golden Gophers, by far the most of any school. However, only two of those picks have come since 2000.
Tyrone Carter put together a lengthy NFL career after spending just three seasons with the Vikings. Nate Triplett failed to make Minnesota’s roster as a rookie. He went on to play in a total of just eight games in the league, all with the Indianapolis Colts.
Minnesota does deserve a spot on this list for its proximity to home. The majority of Vikings fans will already have their eyes on the Gophers during the upcoming college season.
And despite being a bit outdated, the Vikings have still invested heavily in the program. For the 2020 NFL Draft, the Gophers could offer a handful of talented prospects for Minnesota to add.
Carter Coughlin is on the NFL radar as a defensive end. He led the school in sacks last season with 9.5. Kamal Martin could hear his name called later in the draft if he has a strong 2019 season as well. The outside linebacker has the tools to contribute against the run and pass. The more he can offer, the better.
And of course, Tyler Johnson is the prize of the group heading into the season. Johnson is one of the premier wide receiver prospects in the country and looks to put on a show this season.