First Round Pick:
Tyler Linderbaum – C (Iowa)
The Vikings got some improved production from their offensive line overall in 2021. But if one is being overly critical, they could still use an upgrade on the interior in pursuit of getting themselves over the hump.
Garrett Bradbury was inconsistent at best and the Vikings could solve this issue by taking the best center prospect to enter the league in a generation. Tyler Linderbaum’s phenomenal career at Iowa has him tagged as a Day 1 starter with Pro Bowl or better potential, someone that also represents a significant upgrade for Minnesota.
Linderbaum has it all. His power is exceptional and this is matched by quick feet in pass protection coupled with supreme communication at the line of scrimmage.
Selecting Linderbaum also gives the Vikings options with Bradbury. Teams are always looking for offensive line help, which could see the former North Carolina State star moved for some valuable draft capital in this scenario.
It’s hard to find a sure thing at any stage of the draft. However, Linderbaum is as close as it gets, and if he’s still around when Minnesota is on the clock, they should not hesitate.
And that’s one less position to worry about for the next decade.