NFL Draft 2022: What the Vikings can expect from their Day 3 picks

Round 5: Esezi Otomewo, DL – Minnesota

A lot of Vikings fans wanted a defensive lineman well before this point of the draft. They have to be excited to see a University of Minnesota prospect come to Minnesota and be able to take on a role on a team that could use their big men in the trenches in a variety of ways.

Esezi Otomewo stands 6’5 and weighed in at 282 pounds at the combine. He will likely see work as a defensive end in a 3-4 formation or be moved inside to be a defensive tackle in a 4-3. This versatility makes him a fun addition to the roster.

NFL.com comparison and projection: Kenyon Coleman (Round 6)

The Good

There is no such thing as taking a play off for Otomewo. His motor is non-stop and he will continue until he knows the play is whistled dead. He is smart when attacking blockers and can use a variety of moves and angles to win the battle for leverage.

He can use his size well to take up space and create a bull rush and is good at understanding the blocking schemes of opposing offenses.

The Bad

Otomewo lacks the flashy numbers and consistency of a player with his level of talent. The question of what is holding him back from creating hurries and sacks is an interesting one and should be explored by the Vikings during rookie camp.

Although he has a very good attack, he tends to telegraph his attacks and be a little too predictable at times. Observant veteran offensive linemen will use this information to counter his attacks.

What to Expect

The Vikings have a nice variety of players on the defensive line that can step in and contribute. Esezi Otomewo should become an important backup and rotational player to help solidify the first line of defense for Minnesota. He will likely be on the 53-man roster when it is initially announced.