7 prospects the Vikings need to monitor at the 2020 Combine
By Dean Jones
Justin Jefferson – WR (LSU)
What he lacks in elite speed, Justin Jefferson more than makes up for in other areas. He is going to be worth serious consideration by the Vikings in the early rounds of this year’s NFL Draft.
Whether Stefon Diggs sticks around amidst increasing speculation about his future will determine how high Minnesota adds another playmaker out wide this offseason.
If Diggs were to move on for greener pastures, Jefferson would fill the void left by the Maryland product. He would give Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins a dependable option thanks to his superb ability to track the ball and the mismatches he creates in the red zone.
Jefferson does have the speed to stretch the field, albeit not at the level of Diggs, but there was real evidence in 2019 that he is now finally living up to his potential.
The receiving prospect demonstrates impressive body control for someone with a 6-foot-3 frame and his route-running capabilities should also boost his overall credentials.
He reached 1,540 yards on 111 receptions to go along with 18 touchdowns during his final college season in 2019. If Jefferson can bring half of that production to the NFL during his rookie campaign, then someone is going to have a real difference-maker to utilize.
Jefferson will wow scouts during the catching and agility drills at this week’s Combine. His 40-yard dash time will be another thing to keep a very close eye on as he looks to dispel the speed myth that is one of the only lingering doubts about him left.