Need No. 4
Inside Linebacker
Inside linebacker is a curious position for the Vikings. It wasn’t a shock at all when they released Eric Kendricks, but it was surprising that Jordan Hicks was kept with a restructure.
At a press conference at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah was asked about his linebacking corps, and he mentioned Brian Asamoah, Troy Dye, and William Kwenkeu by name, so he’s obviously high on those players, despite their lack of experience.
The Vikings could stand pat and roll with Hicks, Asamoah, Dye, and Kwenkeu, but they could also be in a great spot to add a young talent in the draft.
There is a handful of high-quality inside linebackers in this class, and the Vikings could find one staring them in the face in the third round. Iowa’s Jack Campbell, Texas’ DeMarvion Overshown, and Auburn’s Owen Pappoe are all options.
All of these players would challenge Hicks for his starting job and, worst case, usurp it by midseason.
There are also free agents the team could look to bring in. Myles Jack, Zach Cunningham, and Deion Jones are some names who would add veteran depth and are still relatively young. Inside Linebacker is a position that could definitely be upgraded and will remain a need until someone is brought in.