6 linebackers the Vikings could select in the 2020 NFL Draft

Malik Harrison (Ohio State)

Measurements:

• Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 247 pounds

2019 Stats:

• 75 total tackles (16.5 for a loss)
• 4 pass breakups
• 3.5 sacks

Malik Harrison is another downhill thumper who has an intimidating presence on the field. His production took a major jump during the last two seasons as he racked up over 150 tackles and 6.5 sacks during this time.

Harrison does an excellent job using his hands to work through the muck to find the ball carrier. He closes in quickly and he does a great job wrapping up. Harrison also can play inside or outside. His athletic ability is top notch as he was a quarterback in high school.

At this stage of his career, Harrison will struggle in pass coverage. He’s a bit slow figuring out who to cover and where the ball is going, but that should improve in time and with NFL coaching. His lack of coverage skills will likely make him a two-down linebacker early in his career, limiting his impact on the team that takes him.

Harrison is probably going to be a third-round pick. The Vikings do have two choices in that round and they could take him if they deem him the best player available.

If they do, he would arguably the best backup on the roster and he would surely see a handful of snaps a game, as well as a big role on special teams.