Vikings Draft 2022: Realistic five-round mock draft 1.0

Fifth Round (Pick No. 156)

Micah McFadden – LB (Indiana)

Measurements:

• 6-foot-1
• 240 pounds

2021 Stats (in 12 games):

• 77 tackles (15.5 for a loss)
• 6.5 sacks
• 3 pass deflections, 1 forced fumble

Things are going to look a lot different for the Vikings on the defensive side of the ball with Ed Donatell now in control of the unit.

Minnesota is switching to a 3-4 base, meaning the need for pass-rushing outside linebackers will be greater than it ever was when Mike Zimmer was running the defense.

Micah McFadden is someone who has the potential to make an impact as a rookie, especially on passing downs. McFadden lined up inside the box for the majority of his college career, but he typically made the most of his opportunities to rush the opposing quarterback as PFF gave him the highest pass-rushing grade of any off-ball linebacker in the nation last season.

It’s possible that he could develop into an every-down linebacker down the road. But for the 2022 season, McFadden has the potential to make the biggest impact as a situational pass-rusher and as a contributor on special teams.