Vikings 2023 Draft: Way-too-early 2023 mock draft

Round 2

Jahleel Billingsley – TE (Texas)

After passing on the top tight ends in 2022, the minnesota Vikings need to get a bit more serious about the position moving forward. Even if Irv Smith Jr. proves to be the starter for the future, the Vikings need depth behind him.

Jahleel Billingsley entered 2021 as a first-round hopeful at Alabama but has transferred to Texas where he should be a fun piece in the offense. Tight ends have lost some value over the years which could force one of the best in next year’s class to fall into the middle of the second round, similar to the fall that Irv Smith suffered in 2019.

Projecting Day 2 talent is always tough a year out but a player like Billingsley is something to keep an eye on. He is arguable a first-round talent at a devalued position which could set this up down the line.

Billingsley is a passing game tight end that is built like a wide receiver and that should be the expectation for him in the NFL. Teams value bigger weapons that can contribute down the field and use some speed to beat linebackers, which is perfect for Billingsley.

This is not a massive need if Smith is healthy but it would be a luxury pick for a team that needs to add weapons whenever possible. Jahleel Billingsley would be an exciting Day 2 selection for the Vikings next offseason.