The National Football League Scouting Combine is a very important event in the NFL Draft process. It’s not just about the measurements and the athletic testing, what goes on behind the scenes is arguably just as important.
There are a lot of different elements that occur behind the scenes at the combine. The Minnesota Vikings will speak with numerous teams and agents about potential contracts and moves during free agency, which is set to begin next week. Along with that, teams have the opportunity to meet with NFL Draft prospects who they can select in April’s annual selection meeting.
How teams go about their selection of interviews is always different. Some want to use these interviews to gather more information about teammates while the other side of the coin is to learn more about prospects you are seriously interested in.
When it comes to how the Vikings have utilized these meetings, they aren’t afraid to do both and have met with some very intriguing talents at multiple positions.
Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State
Scouting Report
Jeanty is a no-brainer. He is the top running back in this class and would be a major difference-maker for the Vikings’ offense in improving the running game.
Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon
Scouting Report
Harmon was one of the better players in the defensive tackle group when it came to testing. He flourished in drills, showcasing a range of explosive and athletic movements that could cause him to go before the Vikings pick at 24th overall.
Trey Amos, CB, Ole Miss
Scouting Report
Cornerback is a major need for the Vikings and Amos has the size required to play on the outside. What makes things interesting for him is the tape shows a guy who gets stacked a little too often but he ran a 4.43-second 40-yard dash at the combine.
Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo
He might be 25 years old, but Alexander is flying up draft boards with more exposure. He opened eyes at the Senior Bowl and, even at 25 years old, he could be under consideration.
Cam Jackson, DT, Florida
This is an interesting one for the Vikings. Jackson is a nose tackle that is of similar size to Deone Walker, but plays much more traditionally and is built thick in his lower half, something Walker is not.
Cam Ward, QB, Miami (FL)
This is a fascinating one, and something you should read about in the below piece.
Dorian Strong, CB, Virginia Tech
Cornerback is a major need for the Vikings and Strong is an intriguing prospect. He ran a 4.5-second 40-yard dash at 6′-1, 185 lbs, and has an aggressive mindset.
Luke Kanda, OL, Cincinnati
Offensive line depth is something the Vikings need and Kanda can provide just that.
Emery Jones Jr., OT, LSU
While he played right tackle at LSU, Jones is being projected to kick inside to guard at the next level. Having that kind of versatility is huge when drafting a developmental player to start as a backup.
Donovan Jackson, OL, Ohio State
After starting at left guard this season, Jackson kicked outside to tackle for the stretch run and he was arguably better there than at guard. Wherever he plays in the NFL he should see success.
Charles Grant, OT, William & Mary
If you want a guy with excellent movement skills who can succeed in an outside-zone scheme, Grant is your guy. He needs to show that he can thrive outside of the FCS level, but there is talent worth developing.
