As the NFL Draft looms on the horizon, the Minnesota Vikings find themselves in a strong position, thanks to their strategic moves in free agency. With key additions shoring up various needs, the Vikings now turn their attention to the draft, where expert predictions are heavily focused on bolstering the defensive secondary and offensive line. Let’s dive into what the experts are saying about who the Vikings should pick in the first round.

Cornerback Corner – The Vikings’ Defensive Needs

Matt Miller from ESPN+ suggests a defensive maneuver by drafting Kentucky’s Maxwell Hairston. Despite their active free agency, there’s still a need for long-term solutions at the cornerback position.

Hairston isn’t just another name on the draft board; he’s a prospect with elite footwork and impressive agility, clocking a blistering 4.28 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the combine. His ability to cover receivers tightly, thanks to those long arms and quick feet, makes him a potential cornerstone for the Vikings’ secondary.

This pick could significantly enhance their man coverage and inject youthful vigor and speed into the roster.

Mike Tannenbaum agrees that the secondary deserves attention, but with Texas’ Jahdae Barron in his sights. Known for his versatility and a knack for being around the ball – evidenced by his 20 pass breakups and eight interceptions over three seasons – Barron could seamlessly integrate into Brian Flores’ defensive scheme. His ability to play both inside and outside positions adds a layer of strategic flexibility that Minnesota could capitalize on, especially if he continues the Vikings’ tradition of generating turnovers game after game.

Safeguarding the Future – The Safety Pick

Bucky Brooks of NFL Network and CBS’s Josh Edwards both view South Carolina’s Nick Emmanwori as a strategic pick for the safety position. With veteran Harrison Smith nearing the twilight of his career and the departure of Cam Bynum in free agency, the Vikings could benefit from grooming a successor.

Emmanwori’s standout performance at the combine makes him a prime candidate to learn under Smith’s tutelage before taking the reins as a future leader of the defense. While this pick might not shake the world immediately, it’s a forward-thinking move that sets up the Vikings’ secondary for years to come.

Building the Wall – Strengthening the Offensive Line

From a different perspective, Chris Trapasso of CBS sees value in fortifying the Vikings’ offensive line by selecting Grey Zabel from North Dakota State University. By trading down to accumulate more picks, the Vikings could not only enhance their draft capital but also secure a small-school standout who made waves at the Senior Bowl. Zabel, who projects as a guard at the next level, would likely compete for the starting spot from the get-go, offering a sturdy, scheme-fitting presence on the line.

With the Vikings’ draft strategy rife with possibilities, all eyes are on how they will balance immediate needs with long-term development. Whether they choose to lock down the secondary or bolster the offensive line, Minnesota is primed for a draft that could solidify their foundation for future success.