Justin Madubuike – DT (Texas A&M)
Even after the signing of “The Juggernaut” Michael Pierce this offseason, the Vikings have a need at defensive tackle heading into the draft.
Minnesota certainly doesn’t need a run stuffer as they are currently three deep with Pierce, Shamar Stephen, and Jaleel Johnson on their roster. They do however need a defensive tackle who can create interior pressure. They could address this need early in the draft with one of their two first-round picks.
Mike Zimmer would love to get his hands on a prospect like Javon Kinlaw. He’s an absolute beast, with an explosive first step and a motor that doesn’t quit. Kinlaw is pretty raw and he relied on his quickness and his brute strength to get by in college, but his ceiling is extremely high.
Another prospect worthy of the Vikings’ 22nd or 25th pick would be Ross Blacklock from TCU. Blacklock also has a quick first step and he loves bull-rushing his way through blockers. He does need to polish up his technique and add some moves to his overall pass-rushing arsenal, but he could be that interior disruptor Zimmer is looking for.
A player Minnesota shouldn’t be considering in the first round is Texas A&M’s Justin Madubuike. He does have plenty of good tape that showcases him being quick off the snap and playing with great leverage, often getting under the guard tasked with blocking him. He also closes in a hurry and engulfs opposing ball carriers.
Madubuike just doesn’t have the size of a Kinlaw or the sheer strength of a Blacklock. He is also a bit undersized and he has a bit of a lean frame compared to a typical NFL defensive tackle. Madubuike could still end up in purple and be an asset to the Vikings defensive line, they just shouldn’t take him in the first round.