5 prospects the Vikings should target on Day 3 of the 2021 NFL Draft

Michael Carter – RB (North Carolina)

Michael Carter is a very good all-around back who many assumed would be selected by the third round of this year’s NFL Draft. As round four looms on the horizon, he’s still available, and he should be someone the Vikings take a long look at.

Minnesota does have a need at running back. They didn’t bring back Mike Boone and need to find a new No. 3 running back. With both Dalvin Cook and Alexander Mattison having durability questions, getting a reliable and quality third option in the running game, in an expanded season, is a necessity.

Carter really made a name for himself at the Senior Bowl. He was a man amongst boys and he used his elite vision and quickness to shred the defense.

This shouldn’t have come as a shock to anyone who watched him play at UNC as he was very productive despite splitting time with Javonte Williams. During his college career, Carter ran for 3,404 yards and 22 touchdowns in addition to catching 82 passes for 656 yards and six more scores.

He’s a dual-threat player who can be a great option on passing downs for the Vikings while also giving them another option in the return game.

Minnesota has already addressed the majority of their needs during the first two days of the draft. So they can use one of their multiple fourth-round picks to take this playmaker who could be their new third option in the running game.