Minnesota Vikings: A look into the future at the safety position
By Luke Parrish
Josh Metellus
Josh Metellus has the leg up as the team enters training camp by virtue of being the first player selected out of the bunch. The Vikings spent a sixth-round pick on the safety out of Michigan with the hope that he can develop into a contributor.
At Michigan, Metellus thrived as an in-the-box defender who could fly to the ball and deliver a stunning blow to the ball-carrier. He excels at initiating contact and driving through the ball to finish the play. He also has experience as a slot defender with plenty of success in pass coverage.
He finished his time collegiate career on a high note, setting career-highs in tackles, tackles for loss, and pass deflections. Metellus broke up 14 passes and intercepted five in his four-year career while adding 186 tackles. He can be a do-it-all type of safety once he adjusts to the NFL.
His production increased every year and he showed flashes at a variety of spots for the Wolverines. His ability to read and react, along with his instincts in coverage, makes him a fun project moving forward.
Josh Metellus is a name to keep an eye on as the Vikings hit training camp. He will likely get some reps against the first-team offense at times just to see how different players look in certain situations. If he balls out, Metellus could find playing time quite early in his career.