Overall Analysis
This Vikings draft class is very different from most of its predecessors under general manager, Rick Spielman.
Aside from Hughes, there’s little likelihood any other draft pick in this group has any chance of starting as a rookie in the upcoming season. The only reason Hughes has little to no chance to start is because of the two cornerbacks ahead of him on the depth chart.
The seven rookies taken after Hughes are all in need of significant development, enough that none of them are likely to start, much less play any kind of a significant role in 2018. This speaks positively to the level of talent and depth the Vikings have across their roster.
However, this approach did have possible consequences for the offensive guard position. By taking Hughes with their first draft selection, they chose not to address their biggest hole. Soon after, the remaining top line prospects came off the board before the draft’s first 40 picks were completed.
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There were other opportunities to select talents that could help the team in the immediate future, such as Mo Hurst, who lasted until the fifth round. Yet the team chose developmental prospects over those with enough developed talent to help the team immediately.
If the coaches have the success in building up this draft class the way they believe they can, this may turn into one of Spielman’s best jobs ever. For now, this class leaves a lot to be desired. Few guarantees and a lot of risk.
Overall Grade: C+
– Clayton R. Brooks II writes for Full Press Coverage and covers the Minnesota Vikings. Like and follow @ClaytonRBrooks2. Like and follow @fpc_vikings on Twitter and Full Press Vikings on Facebook.