The Minnesota Vikings had plenty of ammunition to work with on the final day of the 2020 NFL Draft. They selected Oregon linebacker Troy Dye with the 132nd overall pick.
Troy Dye came off the board to the Minnesota Vikings at the end of the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Dye was a leader for the Oregon Ducks, racking up 391 tackles over the course of his career. He projects as a cover linebacker who can contribute on special teams thanks to his ability to get his nose dirty and tackle ball-carriers.
With 13 picks at their disposal on Day 3, the Vikings were free to take risky picks and add talent regardless of need. Dye is an athletic player with a ton of upside as a third linebacker, but he is not a sure-fire prospect.
At 6-foot-3, Dye brings some good length in the middle of the field who can help cover tight ends. Dye is a bit slim for a linebacker, playing at just 230 pounds, but that allows him to play with speed and range.
There is a lot to like about Dye because he does a little bit of everything while not excelling at any particular facet of the game.
He racked up five interceptions and 14 pass breakups in four seasons for the Oregon Ducks. As a third linebacker and a special teamer, Dye will not be asked to be a huge contributor on defense right away. However, he is a good option as a backup or replacement in the event of an injury.
Dye enters a linebacker room with Eric Kendricks and Anthony Barr, two of the best in the league. He is in a good situation to learn and grow as a complete linebacker while competing for early playing time.