2023 NFL Draft: Seven-round post-free agency Vikings mock draft
By Chris Schad
Fourth Round (Pick No. 118)
Dorian Williams – LB (Tulane)
One of the Vikings’ biggest weaknesses in their defense last year was their coverage ability at the linebacker position.
Eric Kendricks used to be one of the top coverage linebackers in the NFL, but his ability eroded with time, and he was a salary cap casualty earlier this month. Jordan Hicks provides value against the run and as a blitzer, but he graded 57th out of 80 qualifying linebackers in PFF’s coverage grades last season.
The Vikings could march into next season with Brian Asamoah seizing a starting role, but they would be wise to add depth at the position by selecting Dorian Williams.
Williams is undersized at 6-foot-2 and 230 pounds, but he allowed just 0.43 yards per coverage snap last season. While he needs to work on being able to take on blockers as a pass rusher, he’s adequate enough to get on the field and is a strong tackler with an 8.3 percent missed tackle rate.
With the Vikings looking to get younger and faster at linebacker, Williams would be a good fit.