The Viking Age
FanSided

Minnesota Vikings Draft 2021: Way-too-early watch list

By Luke Parrish

WEST LAFAYETTE, IN - SEPTEMBER 28: Rashod Bateman #13 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers runs the ball after a reception during the game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium on September 28, 2019 in West Lafayette, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
WEST LAFAYETTE, IN - SEPTEMBER 28: Rashod Bateman #13 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers runs the ball after a reception during the game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium on September 28, 2019 in West Lafayette, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
6 of 6
Next
Minnesota Vikings
(Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images) Carlos Basham Jr. /

Carlos Basham Jr. – EDGE (Wake Forest)

Carlos Basham Jr. was another player that many thought would make the leap to the NFL in 2020. Instead, he returns to Wake Forest for another season to polish his game and become a first-round pass rusher in 2021.

With project pieces on the roster for now, the Vikings could be in the market for a top-tier prospect off the edge next year.

Basham has been all over the field for the Demon Deacons since arriving on campus. He had a phenomenal season in 2019, one where he posted double-digit numbers in tackles for a loss (18.0) and sacks (10). He also added three forced fumbles and 57 total tackles in his junior season.

Last year was a huge stepping stone for Basham and it got his name out there as one of the top edge rushers in the country. He is strong against the run and he has the tools to succeed as a true pass rusher. He is certainly a player to watch in the first round of the 2021 draft, assuming he keeps up his progress.

light. Must Read. Should the Vikings try to acquire Panthers WR Curtis Samuel?

Basham has a proven track record of success and production in college. He also has length and speed off the edge, which translates well to NFL talent and success. With other big-name edge rushers in this class with him, Basham could fall right into Minnesota’s lap.

Home/Minnesota Vikings Draft