Vikings Draft 2021: Post-Super Bowl four-round mock draft
By Dean Jones
Third Round (Pick No. 79)
Quincy Roche – DE/OLB (Miami)
Another area where the Vikings could use some additional depth is their pass-rush. Danielle Hunter’s season-ending injury left them struggling to generate any sort of pressure throughout the 2020 campaign and even though the Pro Bowler is set to make a full return to health, more will be needed if Mike Zimmer wants his team to get back into playoff contention next season.
Someone with the physical attributes of Quincy Roche would be a fantastic addition. The Miami edge rusher stood out considerably at the 2021 Senior Bowl to further boost his draft stock, displaying the sort of explosiveness and refined moves off the block that is normally a hot commodity across the league.
His athleticism is eye-catching, to put it mildly. What Roche lacks in length normally associated with NFL pass-rushers he more than makes up for with sheer grit and a relentless attitude on almost every down. These are traits Zimmer loves in his defensive players if his recent mindset regarding recruitment is any indication.
Whether Roche is best suited as a defensive end or outside linebacker is a moot point for Minnesota, who needs help in both areas with so much uncertainty surrounding the likes of Anthony Barr, who could potentially become a salary-cap casualty in the coming weeks.