3 out-of-the-box options for the Vikings in first round of the 2021 NFL Draft
By Luke Parrish
Terrace Marshall Jr. – WR (LSU)
2020 Stats:
- 7 games
- 48 receptions
- 731 yards
- 10 TDs
Wide receiver is a sneaky need for the Vikings in this year’s draft, which was briefly mentioned earlier when discussing Kyle Pitts.
Despite taking Justin Jefferson in the first round in 2020, Minnesota could go back to the receiving well this year to not only bolster the passing attack for 2021, but for the future as well.
While this year’s wide receiver class is loaded and the selection of Jaylen Waddle or Ja’Marr Chase would not be all that surprising, Terrace Marshall Jr. could fit the mold the Vikings are looking for.
Marshall, another stud wideout from LSU, could find himself in the first round by the end of the pre-draft process. He may not be the best receiver available this year, but he could still go early if the others go in the top 15.
Just because Marshall isn’t the top-rated receiver before the draft does not mean he can’t become that once he gets into the league, just as we all learned from Jefferson this past season.
Marshall has the size at 6-foot-3 to be physical on the outside, but he has the footwork and technique to play inside as well. He has strong hands and great ball skills that allow him to create after the catch.
A good word from Jefferson and a desire to make the passing attack unstoppable might be enough to keep Marshall in the purple and gold next season.