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

Fifth Round (Pick No. 158)

Jon Gaines II - OG (UCLA)

Currently, it looks like the Vikings will roll into next season with the same starting offensive line that they used in 2022. That means that Ed Ingram will keep his job at right guard despite being one of the worst pass-blocking offensive linemen in the entire NFL last season.

To be fair, Ingram was a rookie, so growing pains were expected. But if he continues to struggle again in 2023, Minnesota should make sure they have a backup plan.

Since they don't have much money to sign a veteran free-agent, the draft is likely the Vikings' best option at adding another solid interior offensive lineman.

Stumbling into someone like Jon Gaines II in the fifth round of this year's NFL Draft certainly would make Minnesota feel a little better about their interior offensive line depth heading into next season.

Gaines spent most of his college career lined up as a right guard and during his last three seasons at UCLA, he allowed a total of just four sacks. He's a solid run blocker and an above-average pass-blocker, and if he lands with the Vikings, it's not difficult to envision him challenging Ingram for his starting job in training camp this summer.