Grading the Minnesota Vikings 2021 rookie class after year one

Kellen Mond – QB

Grade: F

The Vikings did what many fans had been clamoring for and took a quarterback in the mid-rounds. Kellen Mond was an exciting pick because, in college, he showed not just a strong arm, but had the ability to take off and make plays with his legs, giving the Vikings something new and exciting at the quarterback position.

Many figured Mond would be the backup to Kirk Cousins for the 2021 season but in training camp, it was clear that Mond wasn’t progressing as quickly as the team hoped. Jake Browning had jumped Mond on the depth chart, and after seeing the young quarterback struggle in preseason games, it was clear why.

He ended up making the final 53, but the team went out and brought back Sean Mannion to be the backup, relegating Mond to the practice squad.

He did appear in one game completing two passes for five yards. Mond’s future with the team is unclear with a new regime coming in, but he should be at least given the opportunity to earn a spot as the backup, or even compete to start if Cousins is moved in the offseason.

Chazz Surratt – LB

Grade: D-

Chazz Surratt was the Vikings’ second third-round choice and one many figured would have an impact during the 2021 season. This was an ultra-athletic linebacker who could be used in a variety of ways on the defense, and perhaps even lineup at safety at times.

Worst case it was assumed he’d be a special teams demon, using his top-end speed to fly down the field and smack the returner.

He did play some special teams but was far from a demon. Surratt didn’t play a single snap of defense, and the team got a very poor return from their third-round investment.

Apparently, he had a hard time picking up the defense Maybe a new scheme will help, but after year one, this pick is trending toward a bust.