Re-grading the Minnesota Vikings 2018 draft class

How has the 2018 draft class turned out for the Minnesota Vikings?

Three seasons is typically what is needed to properly evaluate an NFL Draft class. This gives players enough time to develop and adapt to the speed and nuances of the pro level. So with their 2020 season now over, it’s time to go back and take a look at the 2018 draft class of the Minnesota Vikings.

We will go through all of their selections and give each a grade based on their production during the last three years. The grading scale will differ by round as seventh-round picks aren’t expected to perform at the same level as a first-round choice.

After all of the scores are given out, we will grade the Vikings 2018 rookie class as a whole and see what potential is left for future growth.

Below is how the grading scale will work.

• Round 1: 0-5 points
• Round 2: 0-4 points
• Round 3: 0-3 points
• Round 4: 0-2 points
• Round 5: 0-1 point
• Round 6/Undrafted: 0 points

(Bonus points can be handed out for any pick that was productive from the sixth round or later, and for any player who out produced their draft slot. Fractional points are also awarded.)

First Round

Mike Hughes – CB

Stats:

• 24 games (7 starts)
• 80 tackles (2 for a loss)
• 2 interceptions
• 1 touchdown

Grade:

• 2/5

Mike Hughes has been a major disappointment for the Vikings. It isn’t for a lack of ability, as the guy has flashed plenty of potential both in coverage and with the ability to make some big plays. The problem is the dude just can’t stay healthy.

He has played in just 24 games in his career with Minnesota, missing time due to an ACL injury as a rookie, and with various neck injuries during the last two seasons.

Hughes was supposed to be ready to take over as the Vikings’ No. 1 corner this season. The team drafted him to take over the role once Trae Waynes departed, which he did in 2020.

Hughes has been a willing tackler, but he has had lapses in coverage. Unfortunately, he hasn’t had enough time on the field to work these problems out because he is extremely injury prone.

His future is up in the air, as he could potentially choose to retire after suffering injuries to his neck two years in a row. If he does come back, there’s no guarantee he makes Minnesota’s 2021 roster, and he’s a long shot to beat out Jeff Gladney or Cameron Dantzler for one of the starting corner spots.