5 biggest surprises by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2021 NFL Draft

Adequately addressing the offensive line

Heading into last year’s draft, the Vikings had a massive need at the guard position. They had two first-round picks, and they elected not to address the need early, though they came back in the second round and took Ezra Cleveland.

At the time, it was thought Cleveland would be the heir apparent at left tackle, but now it seems his future is at guard.

After the Cleveland pick, Minnesota didn’t take another offensive lineman until their very last choice of the draft. This year was a different story.

The Vikings surprised and not only took their left tackle of the future in the first round with Christian Darrisaw, but then they hit the offensive line again in the third round with massive Ohio State guard Wyatt Davis.

Minnesota’s offensive line looks vastly improved from where it was just a week ago. Darrisaw and Davis could both start on the left side next season, with Cleveland remaining at right guard. Garrett Bradbury and Brian O’Neill flesh it out and suddenly, this group looks to be the best offensive line the Vikings have fielded in about four years.

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

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Kudos to Rick Spielman for shocking the fan base by actually attacking this need and giving Kirk Cousins the protection he hasn’t had since stepping foot in Minnesota.