NFL mock draft: Vikings 7-round 2023 projection replaces three possible cap casualties
player. Pick Analysis. Byron Young. 3. 60. Scouting Report. EDGE. Tennessee Volunteers
With Za’Darius Smith potentially out, the Vikings need Byron Young
If not for his age — he’ll be 25 by draft night — Byron Young would be an easy Top 64 selection in just about any draft. However, the Tennessee product is going to be devalued because of that, despite the fact that his combination of solid twitch and explosiveness along with his power make him an edge rusher who could absolutely contribute to the Vikings defense immediately.
Incidentally, that could be something Minnesota will truly need.
One of the biggest potential cap casualties this offseason is Za’Darius Smith as the team could save 8-figures on their books if he were cut. Moreover, Danielle Hunter left more questions than answers this past season. While it would be great for the Vikings to get a game-changer, an immediately effective and solid player like Young could be a great third-round selection.
Pick Analysis. CB. Stanford Cardinal. Kyu Blu Kelly. 4. 60. Scouting Report. player
Drafting a CB early would be unwise for the Vikings but looks good on Day 3
Cornerback is an area where the Vikings need help. Veteran Patrick Peterson showed some decline while young players such as Cameron Dantzler and Andrew Booth Jr. had plenty of growing pains. However, given that the team used Top 64 picks on Dantzler and Booth in recent years, even with Brian Flores and a new defensive staff coming in, it would be a bit foolish strategically to take one super early again.
With that said, a player like Kyu Blue Kelly out of Stanford is a fascinating prospect to take on the beginning of Day 3 in the draft. At 6-foot-1, 188 pounds, you have to like the frame and the physical tools on the table. The issue has been consistency and use of those tools. Kelly was stuck on a bad Stanford team, which didn’t help, but we’ve just not seen him be a high-level player over long stretches. The flashes, though, make him worthwhile in Round 4 for Minnesota.