NFL Draft 2019: Minnesota Vikings full mock draft

Round 5 – No Pick

This pick was used in the package that landed the Vikings former Broncos quarterback Trevor Simien.

Round 6 – Pick 190

Jordan Scarlett, RB, Florida

Jordan Scarlett would offer Minnesota a back-up running back to spell starter Dalvin Cook. The team used both Cook and now-departed Latavius Murray frequently last year. Head coach Mike Zimmer is a run-first type of coach who understands the role running plays in an NFL offense. Even with the signing of Ameer Abdullah, they need another back to help. Scarlett is an under-rated prospect coming from Florida. A powerful runner that offers upside as a goal-line menace at the next level. He’ll never be a home run threat but the Vikings need a big powerful back to complete this backfield and that is what Scarlett does best.

Round 6 – Pick 209

Carl Granderson, EDGE, Wyoming

The Vikings defensive end situation is in flux. Danielle Hunter is a menace and only getting better. On the other hand, Everson Griffen’s situation is convoluted and his future is uncertain. There is little depth behind their top options. There is a chance Griffen is gone after this season. Minnesota needs to find developmental pieces.

Carl Granderson of Wyoming is an intriguing late-round flyer that Minnesota can invest in. Physically he’s got the total package of what you look for in edge rushers. On tape he looks tight and lacking a plan. He’s certainly an intriguing long-term option. His combine numbers were impressive and he should be able to find a home on an NFL roster, especially in Minnesota where options are limited at defensive end.

Round 7 – Pick 247

Caleb Wilson, TE, UCLA

Kyle Rudolph is getting up there in age. Tyler Conklin is first in line to see snaps behind Rudolph. Minnesota, though, would be smart to grab another tight end from this deep class to round out the position group. Caleb Wilson of UCLA was the second fastest tight end at the combine in Indianapolis this year. He brings a super-productive career from his collegiate game with him.

At his best he is a smart, savvy tight end who can find soft spots in zones and give his quarterback an easy target. He’s not the level of athlete as Conklin but has enough vertical speed to find a spot on a roster as he works on the other aspects of his game.

Next: Best NFL player from each state

Round 7 – Pick 250

Saquon Hampton, S, Rutgers

Mike Zimmer won’t go a whole draft without grabbing a defensive back. This time it’s Rutgers’ Saquon Hampton. A former team captain, Hampton is a do-it-all safety who can provide depth and a special teams stud. He’s more of a hybrid linebacker/safety than a true safety. He is at his best playing near the line of scrimmage where he can attack everything in front of him. His instincts and physical play make him a perfect back-end of the roster piece.