Rick Spielman’s five best NFL Draft picks from the last five years

Brian O’Neill – OT

Rick Spielman tends to hit home runs in the second rounds of NFL Drafts and did it in 2018 with this big man out of Pittsburgh.  The Vikings nabbed Brian O’Neill at the end of the second round and all he did was come in and start 11 games for the team in year one. He’s gone on to start 42 games for Minnesota, quickly becoming the best player on their offensive line.

O’Neill is extremely athletic and can get to the second level in a hurry. He’s also got a great blend of power and balance and can ward off edge rushers using his wide base and lengthy arms.

He rarely allows a sack and can create huge lanes for Cook and company to run through. The guy has been better than advertised and truly doesn’t get the recognition league-wide that he deserves.

While O’Neill likely would’ve been named the best pick from this class regardless, there wasn’t much competition. First-round pick Mike Hughes has been a bust so far as he can’t stay healthy, and the only other bright spot is tight end Tyler Conklin, who could be on the verge of a breakout season with Kyle Rudolph getting released.