With the 24th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings find themselves in an intriguing position. The question is, which direction should they lean?

JJ McCarthy, firmly holding the reins as the Vikings’ franchise quarterback, has already begun to make his voice heard regarding this pivotal decision. Interestingly, he’s pushing hard for his former high school teammate, Tyler Booker, to be the pick.

Word from Darren Wolfson at KSTP has it that McCarthy is championing for the Vikings to draft Booker, the standout guard from Alabama. Known for its football pedigree, Booker hails from IMG Academy, the same ground McCarthy once called home. Their shared history and friendship back to their high school days speaks volumes and could add a layer of synergy to the Vikings’ offensive dynamics.

McCarthy’s lobbying for Booker seems like a wise move, especially as he’s set to take the field after missing his entire rookie season due to a knee injury. Ensuring that he’s comfortable and secure in the pocket is crucial, and who better to trust than an old friend and proven protector?

Booker’s proven track record on the field paints him as a guard worth his weight in gold. He’s consistently demonstrated his ability to stand his ground against defenders, craft running lanes, and finish plays with a flourish.

His performance metrics speak for themselves. Allowing just two sacks through his Alabama career, along with merely seven hits and 30 pressures, Booker is nothing short of reliable.

Clearly, he’s got what it takes to elevate the Vikings’ offensive line to the next level.

Addressing the offensive line is a necessity for Minnesota, and pairing McCarthy with Booker could be just what the doctor ordered. Combining McCarthy’s leadership with Booker’s prowess in protection could be a cornerstone of success for the Vikings. It’s a pairing that brings familiarity, dependability, and a potentially bright future for the Minnesota offense.