4 mid-round draft prospects the Vikings could steal in 2021
By Dean Jones
Kellen Mond – QB (Texas A&M)
Even though he’s normally the scapegoat everybody loves to blame, Kirk Cousins was not the reason for the Vikings’ failings in 2020.
The quarterback performed extremely well following the bye that almost saw the franchise secure the unlikeliest of playoff berths. So if they can get better protection around him next time around, it should be another productive campaign for the signal-caller.
However, with two years remaining on his deal and the fact that Cousins isn’t getting any younger, it might be time for Minnesota to bring in a developmental prospect who could one day take over the mantel as the team’s No. 1 option.
Kellen Mond is a definite player of interest if Minnesota goes down this particular route and it could be a shrewd pickup once the top four or five signal-callers are off the board.
Mond had consistent production during his career in the SEC, which is normally a good indicator of a player’s chances at the next level. He is poised in the pocket and he has no trouble being accurate under duress, while also possessing a sneak athleticism that enables him to escape pressure when required.
If Mond can improve decision-making with more coaching, then someone is going to have a real player on their hands. Sitting behind a veteran like Cousins would do wonders for his development. But much will depend on how twitchy teams get in their hunt for a potential franchise player at the position as the draft unfolds.