Vikings 7-round 2023 NFL Mock Draft: Dalvin Cook traded and replaced
By Adam Patrick
Fifth Round (Pick No. 158)
Starling Thomas V – CB (UAB)
Some might be wondering why a cornerback wasn’t added with one of the Vikings’ earlier selections, but it’s not really a glaring need for the team at this point in the offseason.
Minnesota was able to add some veteran experience when they signed Byron Murphy Jr. in free agency in March, and the team is looking to give guys like Andrew Booth Jr. and Akayleb Evans more opportunities to shine in 2022.
Still, Starline Thomas V still being on the board in the fifth round ends up being too hard for the Vikings to pass up. In Thomas, Minnesota would be getting a 6-foot, 195-pound corner who had an allowed completion rate of just 37.9 last season, in addition to opposing quarterbacks having a passer rating of only 69.4 when throwing in the direction of the young corner.
The former UAB cornerback is someone who wouldn’t have to come in and play significant snaps for Minnesota immediately, but he has the ability to step in if needed during his rookie season.