7 prospects the Vikings need to monitor at the 2020 Combine
By Dean Jones
Justin Madubuike – DT (Texas A&M)
A massive disruptor despite his size, Justin Madubuike has been a hot topic of discussion during the college season regarding how much value he has in the NFL.
The Vikings look pretty set at the defensive tackle position for 2020 providing Linval Joseph sticks around and is not released. Shamar Stephen proved his worth as a starter last season, but his counterpart on the defensive interior is not getting any younger and Minnesota will likely need to make some long-term contingency plan at the position sooner than later.
Madubuike’s explosiveness and ability to play different techniques make him an attractive prospect. If he can improve his level of consistency, then there is a real potential for him to become a star at the next level.
Madubuike is a high-character individual who displays violent finishing skills once he smells blood in his pursuit of the quarterback.
He recorded 11 sacks in his two college seasons as a starter and he is improving areas of need including run stopping. Another thing that will endear NFL scouts is his enthusiasm, as he is always playing the game with a smile on his face while still possessing that killer instinct.
The Vikings may have to part with their first-round pick in order to acquire Madubuike this year, something they may not be willing to do given their other areas of need.