Vikings 7-Round 2023 NFL Mock Draft: Minnesota lands top QB after blockbuster trade

Second Round (Pick No. 58)

Keeanu Benton - DL (Wisconsin)

Due to their lack of funds this offseason, the Vikings weren't able to re-sign veteran defensive lineman Dalvin Tomlinson. There were reports that indicated Minnesota wanted to bring Tomlinson back, but the Cleveland Browns wound up just giving him a lot more money than what the Vikings were able to offer him.

To make up for the loss of Tomlinson, Keeanu Benton would be an excellent choice for Minnesota to insert in the middle of their defensive line.

At 6-foot-4 and 309 pounds, Benton has the necessary size to take up a lot of space for the Vikings' defense. He's solid against the run, and even at his size, he's one of the best pass-rushing defensive line prospects available in this year's draft pool.

With Wisconsin in 2022, Benton finished with almost 30 pressures, including six sacks. In an aggressive defensive scheme led by new coordinator Brian Flores, Minnesota would greatly benefit from adding a defensive lineman like Benton, who can create pressure on his own.