Trent McDuffie – CB (Washington)
Trent McDuffie has pretty much been linked to the Vikings since about January. He’s been widely viewed as the third-best cornerback in the entire draft, and the most likely to still be on the board when Minnesota picks at 12.
However, a recent rumor suggests that the Vikings are actually looking to move down, and acquire McDuffie a little bit later in round one.
Trading down and still getting McDuffie would be a very solid move for Minnesota. The value to take him straight up at 12 isn’t great because while he is a physical, intelligent, and instinctive player who does everything right, he does have some size limitations that will hinder his performance at the next level.
McDuffie is just 5-foot-11 and has 29.5-inch arms. That isn’t going to help when he’s paired against a receiver who is 6-foot-4 and there is a jump ball situation. He can have the best technique in the world, but that isn’t a battle he is going to win.
So getting McDuffie at pick No. 20 instead of 12, and picking up some extra draft capital would be a huge score for the Vikings.
They are still addressing their biggest need with a very solid prospect, but also getting some additional picks to address some other needs with players who could potentially help out as rookies.