5 late-round picks from 2020 that could impact the Vikings in 2021

Josh Metellus – S

Josh Metellus was a sixth-round pick of the Vikings last season and he was used sparingly. When he did see the field, it was usually on special teams, with just 19 snaps on defense. He did rack up nine tackles, but he has a long way to go to earn a spot on the team this year.

While Metellus is definitely a long shot, he will be in the mix. Minnesota’s safety depth chart is pretty wide open behind Harrison Smith and Xavier Woods.

Metellus will be battling it out with rookie Cameron Bynum and Myles dorn, an undrafted safety from a year ago. With Bynum being a fourth-round pick, he will basically be a lock to make the team. But if the Vikings end up keeping four safeties, Metellus could be that last option.

He is a fiery player who loves to come up and lay a hit. Metellus’ coverage skills do need work, but he’s already had a full year in the league, and he will have a full preseason to further hone that aspect of his game. He’s only one injury away from seeing extended playing time and he could be a player who surprises and takes a big step in his progression in year two.