Vikings 2023 Draft: Seven-round all-defensive mock draft
By Dean Jones
Fourth Round (Pick No. 120)
DeMarvion Overshown – LB (Texas)
Eric Kendricks and Jordan Hicks struggled to find their usual form in 2022. The middle linebacker duo just couldn’t mesh effectively as a tandem and both could be salary-cap casualties as the front office looks to trim some fat this offseason.
This would be disappointing, especially considering how much Kendricks has given the Vikings over the years. However, it’s also worth remembering that the NFL is a business and the $9.5 million savings involved with his early release cannot be overlooked.
If Hicks and Hendricks are both let go, then addressing the second-level interior becomes a matter of extreme urgency. And considering the team’s salary-cap constraints, going down the draft route represents a realistic option.
Someone like DeMarvion Overshown ticks all the boxes. He is fast, physical, and has all the traits normally associated with a sideline-to-sideline presence at the next level.
Overshown is a dynamic pass-rusher when given space with enough explosiveness to blow past interior offensive linemen with ease. He is a solid presence against the run, although tackling could be an issue against more physical NFL running backs.
Bulking up would be highly advantageous for Overshown. Especially if the Vikings want him to start right out of the gate depending on how Brian Asamoah develops in his second offseason.