Why the Vikings will draft an edge rusher with their top pick in 2021

What are some reasons why the Minnesota Vikings should use their top pick in the 2021 NFL Draft on an edge rusher?

The Minnesota Vikings are finalizing their board in preparation for the 2021 NFL Draft, which is just a handful of days away.

Many expect the Vikings to use their first-round pick on an offensive lineman this year. This makes plenty of sense as Minnesota’s offensive line wasn’t good a season ago and it has actually gotten worse during the last few weeks.

While the offensive line definitely needs upgrading, it isn’t the only current hole on the Vikings’ roster. The team could use a young, talented safety to be the long-term answer opposite Harrison Smith and they have to improve their pass rush. The pass rush is what will take precedent over the need at safety and it is the need Minnesota could choose to address first.

The Vikings must get back to the playoffs if Mike Zimmer wants to keep his job as the team’s head coach beyond next season. Addressing the need at pass rush during this year’s draft could be the move that secures his tenure as Minnesota’s head coach. So what are a few reasons why the team should take this route with their 2021 first-round pick?