6 safeties the Vikings could select in the 2020 NFL Draft
By Nik Edlund
Xavier McKinney (Alabama)
Measurements:
- Height: 6-feet | Weight: 201 pounds
2019 Stats:
- 95 total tackles (5.5 tackles for a loss)
- 5 pass breakups, 4 forced fumbles, 3 sacks, 3 interceptions, 1 touchdown
If the Vikings take a safety in the first round, then it has to be Xavier McKinney from Alabama. When thinking of McKinney, one word keeps popping up and that is “versatile”.
This guy was used all over the place during his years with the Crimson Tide. He played in the slot, up at the line of scrimmage, and back deep.
With his elite coverage skills and tenacious instincts, there are plenty of ways to get production out of him early in his career. Mike Zimmer would have a lot of fun with this guy, using him in various roles.
McKinney was ultra-productive in his years with Alabama. He accumulated 175 total tackles, five interceptions, six sacks,15 pass breakups, and he forced six fumbles. He’s a playmaker and that is something the Vikings secondary could use.
McKinney is definitely in play for Minnesota at pick No. 22 or 25. The only thing that would put a damper on this would be an Anthony Harris extension prior to the draft.
If this happens, they will probably wait until Day 2 or 3 of the Draft to improve the overall depth and use their first-round choices to address bigger areas of need.