Which non-quarterback prospects should the Minnesota Vikings target during the 2023 NFL Draft?
Things are going far better than anyone anticipated for the Minnesota Vikings in 2022. An incredible victory at the Buffalo Bills in Week 10 has Kevin O’Connell sitting at 8-1 in his first season as head coach, which instantly propels them from a dark horse into legitimate Super Bowl contention unless there’s a drastic turnaround in fortunes.
Although the focus is on right now, front-office figures and scouts behind the scenes will already be focusing on the 2023 NFL Draft and how to further improve this roster. And there could be more wheeling and dealing if general manager Kwesi Adofo Mensah’s first draft with the Vikings was any indication.
Much has been made of this year’s quarterback class and the upside it provides. However, the production of Kirk Cousins through Week 10 could mean Minnesota builds around the veteran rather than exploring alternative options from the college ranks next spring.
If this scenario comes to fruition, here are five non-quarterback prospects the Vikings should have their eye on in 2023.
Prospect No. 1
Andrew Raym – C
Garrett Bradbury is out of contract and might not get an extension despite showing improvements this season. If that turns out to be the case, then finding a long-term option on the cheap might be the Vikings’ best path forward.
Someone like Andrew Raym should be considered, although he’s a little rough around the edges. The Oklahoma product communicates well at the line of scrimmage and has the agility needed to potentially become an NFL starter over time.
Raym has some issues with balance and hand placement on occasion. But if the Vikings opted to give Bradbury a short-term extension, it would provide the incoming center with additional time to hone his craft.