What They’re Saying: Vikings Select Rodney Adams
Sam Neumann
|
Minnesota started the day with zero fifth round picks, but, after a characteristic flurry of trades, Rick Spielman added two of them Saturday. With their first, the Vikings selected South Florida wide receiver Rodney Adams, a speedy, slight receiver who can stretch the field and contribute on special teams.
The Smith selection doesn’t mean the Vikings won’t still look at adding a veteran receiver in free agency (i.e. Michael Floyd), nor does it indicate the coaching staff has lost confidence in Laquon Treadwell. Rather, Adams will likely provide depth and challenge to be the starting kick returner.
Here’s what folks around the web are saying about the Vikings’ (first) fifth round pick:
Spencer Hall
CBS Sports
Grade: B-
“A versatile offensive weapon used in sweeps, screens and as a returner with tremendous speed but development is needed on underneath routes.”
Matt Claassen
Pro Football Focus
“Adams is an explosive receiver who is at his best when in the slot and can get into space. He ran over 80 percent of his routes from the slot in 2016. His 9.8 yards after the catch average was the second-highest mark among all FBS wide receivers with at least 50 receptions.”
Ben Goessling
ESPN
“The Vikings wanted to add another receiver at some point in the draft, and Rodney Adams gives them a player who could contribute as a kick returner in the short-term. Adams could get an early shot to replace Cordarrelle Patterson, as the Vikings determine how to use him on offense.
BJ Reidell
Vikings Territory
Rodney Adams' spider chart is very strange, but it's also telling. Explosive athlete with speed to burn CBs that guess wrong. pic.twitter.com/kzwvlc6r9N
— BJ Reidell (@RobertReidell) April 29, 2017
Matthew Coller
1500 ESPN
The Vikings needed to add another receiver to the mix, so they selected one who can return, run and play in the slot. There are concerns about Adams’ strength, but he is known for his drive and character. It appears Minnesota is looking for the next Stefon Diggs type. Other players were ranked higher on draft boards, but everyone is a long shot at this point. The fact that he worked out with Adam Thielen might have influenced the pick.
Luke Inman
Zone Coverage
Rodney Adams, WR
Pros: Expolsive, Dangerous w ball in his hands
Cons:Thin/Injuries, Not strong at the POA or aggressive when attacking ball— Luke Inman (@Luke_Spinman) April 29, 2017