Four 2020 draft prospects for the Vikings to watch in Week 8
By Luke Parrish
Myles Bryant – DB (Washington)
vs. #12 Oregon
When: Saturday, October 19 at 3:30 p.m. ET
Where: Husky Stadium in Seattle, WA
TV: ABC
Recently, the trend has been for the Vikings to add as much young depth in their secondary as possible. With Xavier Rhodes struggling and Trae Waynes set to hit free agency, Minnesota is more obligated than ever to spend draft capital at cornerback in 2020.
Washington has been a factory for NFL defensive backs lately and you can add Myles Bryant to that list as a potential standout in the slot. If Mike Hughes continues to develop, he can slide outside permanently for the Vikings and allow Bryant to share the nickel.
Bryant plays all over the secondary for the Huskies, splitting time as a safety, outside corner, and nickel corner. His versatility and legitimate ability to play anywhere – rather than playing poorly and out of position – will only help his draft stock.
Bryant has two interceptions this season, both of which came against Hawaii in Week 3. He only has one pass deflection in six games, but he has also added 4.5 TFLs and a sack.
Washington is known for having a handful of great athletes on defense and Bryant is playing everywhere for one of the nation’s top teams. As he enters the NFL, he will likely find a more consistent home on defense and really be able to hone in on his craft. Imagine the things he could do under a defensive genius like Mike Zimmer.
The Huskies host a tough Oregon team that has finally hit their stride. Probable first-round quarterback Justin Herbert has to prove his worth against a tough defense. This will be one heck of a game out west. Luckily, the early kickoff saves us all the trouble of staying up late.
Prediction
Herbert wants to attack the Washington defense through the air and prove that he can throw against a good secondary. Bryant will have his chances to make plays.
He may not register an interception, but Bryant will make his presence felt. Despite being listed at 5-foot-9, Bryant will have a huge impact on this game.