3 NFL Draft prospects the Vikings should avoid
1. Trey Lance, Quarterback, North Dakota State
Lance has the natural talent to grow into an above-average NFL starting quarterback. The issue with selecting him in Round 1 is that he might need to sit behind a starter for a year or two to reach his full potential. The Vikings are not in a position to afford any quarterback they select on Day One that type of luxury.
That means Minnesota must look elsewhere for a new starting quarterback in this year’s draft. Someone like Mac Jones could be an intriguing option for the Vikings given his readiness to make an instant impact. There are valid questions about his long-term potential, but his jump from college to the pros should be shorter than most of his peers.
Lance also looks like a poor stylistic fit with the rest of Minnesota’s offensive personnel. Thielen and Jefferson are high-level wideouts that are best combined with a quarterback who throws the ball on-time with precision. Lance has big-time arm strength, but he’s not mature enough to get the most out of such a polished wide receiver duo.
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The idea of Minnesota adding a new starting quarterback in Round 1 is solid in theory, but the practice may be more difficult for the team’s front office. Drafting at No. 14 might not allow them to add the sort of readymade prospect they truly covet. Forcing a pick like Lance could prove disastrous for the Vikings.