The Minnesota Vikings have a track record of getting blue-chip players in the early 20s of the NFL Draft. Justin in the last five drafts, the Vikings have selected wide receiver Justin Jefferson (22nd), left tackle Christian Darrisaw (23), and wide receiver Jordan Addison (23).

There is this idea that continuing to select at a certain spot in the NFL Draft is a hindrance to maintaining a great roster. In reality, it doesn’t matter where you pick, but what you do with it.

Daniel Jeremiah sends Vikings Georgia S Malaki Starks

When the big wigs of the NFL Draft industry release a mock draft, you take notice. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah releases his first mock draft around the Senior Bowl and it’s one that you need to take notice of.

Vikings fans will need to take notice of his first mock draft, as Georgia superstar safety Malaki Starks.

Starks didn’t make as many plays as we’re accustomed to seeing from him in 2024, but people at Georgia rave about his intangibles, leadership and work ethic. He has the versatility to play over the top or cover the slot.

It’s no secret that the Vikings have a lot of needs on defense. Five of their top six defensive backs are currently free agents and they need to add a lot of talent in the room. Why not add a player who can do everything?

Whatever you ask of Starks, he can do. In fact, some have opined that if he tests well, that he might end up playing outside cornerback. The versatility is something that defensive coordinator Brian Flores loves to have at his disposal. Even with Josh Metellus being that jack-of-all-trades player, you can still bring in Starks and have a lot of fun in doing so.

Will a player like Starks fall that far? That remains to be seen, but safeties have a tendency to fall down the board.