4 biggest Minnesota Vikings draft and UDFA steals in 2022

Brian Asamoah – LB

Finding additional linebacker depth was key for the Vikings as they prepare to switch their system to a 3-4 defensive front under Ed Donatell. Something that could turn this unit into a dominant force if everyone buys in right away.

Brian Asamoah was projected by many to go much higher than he did. But this should only add to the big chip on the player’s shoulder entering the league.

Asamoah is a three-year starter at Oklahoma that plays with a ferocity that’s hard not to love. He is a physical threat against the run, can get after the quarterback when required, and also has an eye-catching burst that allows him to be around the football consistently.

The third-round pick needs to get stronger once faced with NFL-caliber offensive players who will punish every mistake. But much like the situation with Luiji Vilain, seeing how Jordan Hicks and Eric Kendricks go about their business on a daily basis could do wonders for his initial progress.

There does appear to be a chance for Asamoah to become a key part of the rotation and even step in if the starting middle linebacker duo is forced to miss time at any stage. The talent and work rate are right where they need to be, so it’s just a case of fine-tuning his skills at the next level and hoping that everything takes off from there.