2023 NFL Draft: Seven-round post-free agency Vikings mock draft
By Chris Schad
Third Round (Pick No. 87)
Tanner McKee – QB (Stanford)
Quarterback isn’t a glaring need for the Vikings, but it’s something that they should think about. Kirk Cousins is entering the final year of his contract and will turn 35 in August, but the Vikings don’t have the capital to trade up for a top prospect in this year’s draft.
If the Vikings want to take a swing at quarterback, the third round might be the place to do it where toolsy prospects such as Tennessee’s Hendon Hooker could be available. But if Hooker’s advanced age is an issue, the Vikings could opt to take Tanner McKee.
McKee’s collegiate career was an interesting one as he took a two-year missionary trip in Brazil before taking over as Stanford’s starting quarterback in 2021. McKee’s production in two seasons as a starter wasn’t great, as he threw for 28 touchdowns and 15 interceptions, but he suffered from a weak supporting cast and posted a 65.4 completion percentage during his sophomore year.
In some ways, McKee is similar to Cousins. He has a big enough arm to push the ball down the field and is accurate enough to get it to all three levels but doesn’t have the mobility to make up for some of the flaws of his teammates.
If the Vikings like Cousins outside of his age, McKee could be a good developmental prospect with minimal risk in the third round.