6 bold predictions for the Vikings in the 2023 NFL Draft

Prediction No. 3

Minnesota will take a receiver in the first three rounds of the draft

The Vikings have been set at receiver for years and are fortunate to have Justin Jefferson in their lineup. But even if K.J. Osborn steps up to replace Adam Thielen, Minnesota would be wise to add a receiver early in this year's draft.

Like other positions in the draft, the Vikings have been diligent in their research at wide receiver. TCU's Quentin Johnston, Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and USC's Jordan Addison have already met with Minnesota, and it's possible we could hear more names connected with the Vikings in the days leading up to the draft.

Minnesota addresses this issue later in the draft, but getting it out of the way is a good strategy. Teams have placed a premium on elite pass-catchers, and most of the league's top receivers have come in the first three rounds of the draft.

While receiver may not be the Vikings' top need, it's one they should fix early, and if one of the top prospects is available at pick No. 23, it would be tempting for the Vikings to add another weapon to the passing game.