5 bold Minnesota Vikings predictions for the 2020 NFL Draft

Vikings will use their second first-rounder on a cornerback

Since Mike Zimmer took over as the Vikings head coach, the thought of taking a cornerback in the first round of the NFL Draft has become a meme.

Minnesota has selected a pair of corners (Trae Waynes and Mike Hughes) in the first round of the draft in the previous six classes under Zimmer and it would shock absolutely no one if they went back to this as well this year.

But unlike in year’s past, the Vikings will probably be looking for someone who can start right away. Both Hughes and Holton Hill have shown promise at times, but their inconsistent play and a combined five career starts means Minnesota could use a blue-chip prospect to add some talent.

If the Vikings decide to do this at the No. 25 pick, there are options. The team has already met with LSU’s Kristian Fulton and TCU’s Jeff Gladney is another fit thanks to his scrappy style and tendency to make plays on the ball.

There’s also the chance that Minnesota could trade down into the early-to-mid second round to add picks and take another strong talent such as Utah’s Jaylon Johnson or Clemson’s A.J. Terrell.

With most of the starting-caliber corners off the market, the Vikings will likely have some players hit the field earlier than normal under Zimmer. Although other talented corners could be available later, this should be one of Minnesota’s biggest priorities in this year’s draft.