4 luxury prospects the Vikings could pick in the 2021 NFL Draft
By Dean Jones
Jaycee Horn – CB (South Carolina)
There is a long list of cornerbacks taken in the first round by the Vikings in recent years. Some have worked out, while others are best forgotten. But considering the concerning situation developing with Jeff Gladney, the organization might choose to use the No. 14 selection on the position once again.
This would be controversial, considering Minnesota still has Cameron Dantzler, Mackensie Alexander, and Patrick Peterson on the roster. However, the benefits of bringing someone like Jaycee Horn on board are there for all to see.
The former South Carolina cornerback has all the makings of a shutdown prospect at the next level. Only Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith managed to gain more than 50 receiving yards against him in 2020, with the corner’s length and athleticism making him one of the hottest commodities at the top-end of the draft.
He is the son of former Pro Bowl wideout Joe Horn, so if he can have even half the success of his dad, it should result in an outstanding career.
Horn might end up being the first cornerback taken if a team likes him more than Patrick Surtain II. Minnesota has a big decision to make where Gladney is concerned that may or may not come to a conclusion before the draft, which would turn this from a luxury into a possible necessity for the team’s long-term aspirations.