NFL Draft 2021: Five best picks of the first round

3. Christian Darrisaw, Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings did a terrific job of trading down in Round 1 and still coming out of the night with a high-quality starter at a very important position. Darrisaw has a legitimate chance to become a star left tackle in time for the Vikings.

Minnesota’s front office understands that Kirk Cousins needs a clean pocket to operate their offense effectively. A big part of achieving that goal is making sure he doesn’t feel pressure from his blind side. Having quality play at left tackle is imperative for Minnesota’s chances of making the playoffs in 2021.

Darrisaw isn’t the perfect left tackle, but he’s got the sort of powerful frame that fits Mike Zimmer’s offense perfectly. Whatever he lacks in terms of technique as a pass blocker, he makes up for with his power as a run blocker. The Darrisaw acquisition could be just as important for Dalvin Cook as it is for Kirk Cousins during the lineman’s rookie season.

The Vikings could easily have been tempted to go defense with the No. 23 pick, but answering questions about their left tackle position was clearly a worthwhile endeavor. Minnesota fans shouldn’t be surprised if Darrisaw develops into a high-level starter early in his professional career.