Minnesota Vikings: Mocking the 2011 NFL Draft

The Vikings have to hit at least a double with both of their first two picks (No. 12 overall and No. 43 overall) after trading a third-round pick in the Randy Moss fiasco. Here’s a look at their 2011 NFL Draft picks and their possible targets. Click here to see a first round mock of the 2011 NFL Draft.

First round, 12th Pick: Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson
With the risk of losing Ray Edwards to free agency, the Vikings will need to find another pass rushing end. Fortunately for the Vikings, there are plenty of good options in this draft.

Bowers is an injury risk, but he has major upside. I know quarterback is a primary concern for the Purple, but Jake Locker is too big of a reach at 12. Trading out of the 12th slot is a possibility.

Second round, 11th pick: Colin Kaepernick, QB, Nevada
Kaepernick is a great athlete who has the physical tools to be a dynamic player in the NFL. It will take some time to groom him. Going with Kaepernick means you will likely give Joe Webb a shot or bring in a stopgap.

Christian Ponder will likely be gone. Ryan Mallett has too many red flags. Andy Dalton is a possibility, but his upside is minimal. If they want an extra base-hit out of this slot they’ll roll the dice on Kaepernick.

Fourth round, ninth pick: Stephen Schilling, OG, Michigan
The Vikings have major holes in their offensive line, most notably at guard. Schilling is a four-year starter who could start right away for the Vikings.

Fifth round, eighth pick: Joe Lefeged, SS, Rutgers
Lefeged has decent size (6’0″, 210 lbs) and good speed (4.42 40). He gives the Vikings depth at a position of need and can be an immediate contributor on special teams.

Fifth round, 19th pick (from NY Giants): Chykie Brown, CB, Texas
Brown has decent size (5’11″, 190) and decent speed (4.49 40). He can cut his teeth in nickel and dime situations as well as on special teams. Cornerback depth was a serious deficiency for the Vikings last year. It’s important to address that in the draft.

Sixth round, seventh pick: Chris Hairston, OT, Clemson
Bryant McKinnie and Phil Loadholt could use a little competition to be more motivated. Hairston is a big dude (6’6″, 326) who could at least push the starters while providing good depth.

Sixth round, 35th pick: Tori Gurley, WR, South Carolina
Wide receiver was another position that had depth issues last year. Gurley is a big kid (6’4″, 216) with 4.53 speed.

Seventh round, 13th pick: Chris Neild, DT, West Virginia
The Vikings could use some depth at defensive tackle, especially if Pat Williams walks. Neild, at 6’2″, 319 lbs, could help fill that massive void.

Seventh round, 35th pick: Ricardo Lockette, WR, Fort Valley State
Lockette and his 4.34 40 speed are worth a flier at this late stage in the draft.


This article is also featured at NFLTouchdown.com, where I am the Vikings Fan Voice writer.