5 bold Minnesota Vikings predictions for the 2020 NFL Draft
By Chris Schad
Vikings will trade for an established player
Minnesota using all 12 of the picks to fill their roster could go out the window if they decide to use some of their draft capital to acquire an established player instead. With many rumors swirling around and a desire to remain competitive in 2020, the Vikings could be looking for a win-now player, which means they could find themselves in the trade market.
The flashiest name in this group is Cleveland Browns wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. As a top-five receiver, flipping assets to acquire Beckham would be a major victory for Minnesota if they can keep his attitude in check.
But that also depends on if the Browns are willing to trade the 27-year-old after just one season. Cleveland chief strategy officer Paul DePodesta blew off the rumors as “completely false“, but Vikings fans also know that NFL decision-makers tend to lie all the time when talking about star receivers.
Another (and perhaps more likely) move for Minnesota is acquiring Washington Redskins tackle Trent Williams. The 31-year-old sat out last season after a dispute with the Redskins and now is seeking a new home via trade and the Vikings are reportedly interested. Adding a veteran left tackle would be a huge boost to Minnesota’s offensive line, although it’s unclear how much it would take to get a deal done.
One way to make either of these deals happen is by the Vikings trading safety Anthony Harris to add draft capital and clear cap room. But ESPN’s Josina Anderson recently reported that the two sides have made progress on a deal. Either way, it looks like Minnesota’s draft picks could produce more than just rookies.