6 guards the Vikings could select in the 2020 NFL Draft
By Chris Schad
Netane Muti (Fresno State)
Measurables:
- Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 315 pounds
For those still bummed the Vikings passed on Will Hernandez back in the 2018 NFL Draft, the mulligan may come in the form of Netane Muti.
The Hawaiian prospect was a monster in the middle of the Bulldogs offensive line when healthy. But his draft stock has tumbled after finishing his last two seasons with major injuries.
But let’s discuss when Muti is on the field. He didn’t participate in speed and agility drills at this year’s NFL Scouting Combine, but he did show his strength, putting up 44 reps in the bench press. Muti’s calling card is his power as some teammates considered him to be a “mythical being” that could lift up a moose and slam a 10-by-10 at In-And-Out Burger.
Outside of his future as a competitive eater, he also shows speed and agility to get to where he needs to be quickly and in violent fashion. His freshman highlight tape is littered with pancakes and with Pro Football Focus giving him a 75.4 zone-blocking grade, he should fit into Gary Kubiak’s system.
Muti’s injuries (which included a shoulder injury and a torn Achilles) are a concern, but if he can stay healthy, he would be a massive upgrade over Pat Elflein, who has struggled to add strength during his three seasons in the NFL. As an agile mauler, the Vikings could do well by taking the gamble on Muti’s strength.