2011 NFL Draft: Minnesota Vikings Make a Surprise Move to Bolster the Offense

Every once in awhile, a player comes along who can play through anything. Vikings fans know this first hand from watching Brett Favre play against all odds for 20 years.

This year's draft class has one of these rare ironmen. His name is Julio Jones.

Jones is a workout warrior, which doesn't sit well with me, since they tend to become more popular as they set new times in the 40 or jump higher than everyone else. None of these qualities has much to do with football performance if you can't catch. The neat thing about Jones, however, is that he can catch (179 catches in three years at Alabama).

The Vikings are widely considered to be looking for a quarterback. If they can't have the one they want, then defensive end is the next likely option and then offensive tackle. But they are known for grabbing the best on the board, and if available, that would be Jones at twelve.

Should Minnesota be looking at a receiver? Yes and no.

Sidney Rice is obviously the right guy for the job if he can be retained. However, he is an injury prone player who doesn't take any risks for the team. In this respect, drafting an upgrade, regardless of whatever happens with Rice, is probably a smart move.

The only problem is that skill players don't tend to have success when no one can throw it to them. So while Jones might be a great threat, he will be neutralized by his quarterback if the Vikings are left with Rhett Bomar and Joe Webb.

Keep your eyes open for this possibility. And try not to be to surprised!