Carter Coughlin – LB (Minnesota)
Carter Coughlin, on the surface, isn’t a great fit with the Minnesota Vikings, so it was a bit surprising they held a formal meeting with him. Coughlin was primarily an edge rusher for the Golden Gophers and with the Vikings playing a four-man front, it would seem there isn’t a spot for him on the defense.
So two things would need to happen. He’ll need to transition to more of a traditional outside linebacker role and he has the size and athletic ability to do just that. Or the Vikings see him as a late rounder who can be an impact special teams player. If the Vikings were to draft him his role could likely be a mix of both.
Coughlin would be a special teams stud. He’s got great speed and plays without any fear. It’s not hard to envision him flying down the field and making a big hit on a return man. With Kentrell Brothers likely leaving in free agency the Viking will be searching for help on special teams. It’s even possible with Dom Capers advising the defense this year, that the Vikings employ some 3-4 looks. They could then put Coughlin on the edge and let him attack the passer.
The Minnesota Vikings were probably already well aware of Coughlin with him playing for the Gophers but the fact they had a formal meeting with him at the Combine, shows their interest in drafting him is legitimate.