On Monday, Vikings.com writer Mike Wobschall posted an article and accompanying video that covered the Top 5 Draft Choices in Vikings History.
Wobby’s list included the following players in the respective order:
5. LB Scott Studwell (9th round, 1977)
4. WR Randy Moss (1st round, 1998)
3. DT Alan Page (1st round, 1967)
2. QB Fran Tarkenton (3rd round, 1961)
1. RB Adrian Peterson (1st round, 2007)
While I certainly can’t disagree with these names, it got me thinking about other players not on the list that would be a close runner-up.
For me, I can’t help thinking Cordarrelle Patterson.
I know I’m premature here, and I’ll probably get some serious flack for it… although we’ve only been able to see Patterson in one season of action thus far, the numbers–and pure speed–speak for themselves! During the 2013-14 season, Patterson grabbed 45 receptions for 469 yards. It can also be argued that, had Minnesota had a more consistent QB situation, the rookie would have delivered even stronger numbers.
Had the Vikings not traded up to get the receiver in the first round, the offense would have a very different look.
I would love to get some reader feedback on this one … which Vikings draft pick would you add to this list?
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Voted Carl Eller, but was considering Randall McDaniel. Greats at their position.
Not to mock your effort. Bus Patterson shouldn't even be in the top 15 list yet..
He has had 1 year in the league.. Let the man show what he can do before even being mentioned in the same sentace as Randy Moss, Tarkenton or Alan Page.
I think as of now, even Harvin and Sidney Rice is ahead of him.. (also why I think Peterson shouldn't be #1 on the list just yet).
Patterson might be in the conversation some years down the road though..
No offense taken. I know you're probably right :) I tend to get overly excited about the up-and-coming guys before they've really cemented themselves in the league. Thank you for reading and for sharing your opinion -- much appreciated!
Jeff Dugan
2004, Round 7, pick number 220
What are you thinking, Lindsey? How on earth could you not include our favorite hunk of man meat, Jeff Meta Universal Peace Dugan, in you best draft picks ever poll?
Ole
Nobody understands.
I picked Kevin Williams.
When Pat William was playing along side him, creating the 'Williams Wall', they led the league 3 consecutive years in Run defense. Those guys were in a class by themselves and Kevin had a lot to do with that.
Plus, he's been the epitome of a Pro football player; Never in trouble, always there.
And by the way Ole, Dugan couldn't hold Kevin's jock strap.
It's hard to argue against Randall McDaniel. When someone's in the debate for the greatest to ever play their position, they make my top 5. I think that the others on the list (with the exception of Studwell) could also claim they're one of the best to ever play their position. Which is why I'd replace Studwell with McDaniel.
I'd also put Ron Yary ahead of everyone on the vote list; except for McDaniel and probably Eller.
I cheated and said John Randle as an UDFA. Undrafted rookies kinda count right? I gave more credit to lower picks because first round picks should be stars.
I did the same.
Matt Birk
6th rounder, pick 173 (Harvard)
6 time pro bowler
2 time all pro
6 time Vikings "Man of the Year"
Nuff said.
Good call, can't believe I forgot about him.
McDaniel closely edges out Studwell. Maybe the writer forgot he's a Hall of Famer. Agree 100% with you on Patterson, it's just too early to put him with these names. My guess is, he gets close to cracking the list after supplying enough to be critiqued. SKOL!!
Randall McDaniel was awesome from the beginning to the end.
:)
I agree with McDaniel. He tops the list as far as what he accomplished IHMO. I also weigh what type of person they are also. His character was flawless, and to me that makes him even a better pick.
Remember his funky stance?
Definitely not textbook, But man he could block!