7 prospects for the Vikings to watch on Day 1 at the 2020 Combine

Cole Kmet – TE (Notre Dame)

If the Vikings move on from Kyle Rudolph this offseason, then a fellow Notre Dame alum could be on their radar.

Cole Kmet boasts hands that defy his size and he is good at creating space for himself in tight situations. He is similar to Rudolph in that sense and would he would be a lot cheaper than the $9.45 million hit the eight-year veteran inflicts on Minnesota’s salary cap next season.

Although Rudolph is still considered a big part of the offense, dealing him may be one of the cost-saving options the Vikings decide to go with for the good of the franchise. Irv Smith Jr. has shown incredible potential, but his pass blocking leaves a lot to be desired and that’s where someone like Kmet comes in.

Kmet’s aggression is one of the standout features of his game and he plays every down with infectious enthusiasm that drives others around him. One thing he will have to improve on is his ability to prevent defensive ends and linebackers from getting to his quarterback without help.

This will help his overall efficiency as there is potential there for him to be a good blocker at the next level. It will be up to Gary Kubiak to make sure he is not on an island if he ends up in Minnesota.

Kmet will also get the chance to show scouts he can catch off his chest and secure the ball efficiently at the Combine to alleviate concerns.