Questions Answered: Keenan McCardell Status, Free Agency around the Corner, Mock Draft Heaven
The following questions are about current Minnesota Vikings topics, answered by VikingsTerritory. Today’s is the February 22nd edition, addressed in a from-the-hip fashion. If you have questions, please email them to [email protected].
Also, please note: These are opinion-based responses. Some answers will be incorrect from time to time. But we’ll try to keep that to a minimum.
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Q: It looks like O’Connell’s staff filled out. Why did Keenan McCardell stay when the rest left?
A: Because he’s brilliant, and his players love him — chiefly Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen.
These bits of logic can also apply to Andre Patterson, but he ventured to the New York Giants. Even Danielle Hunter lamented Patterson’s departure on social media.
McCardell is new, energetic, and wise. He’s an asset to any NFL coaching staff — especially in an offense-first one like O’Connell’s. Basically, McCardell is staying because he deserves it. He’ll continue to develop Justin Jefferson, which is wondrous news.
Q: If the Vikings find money to spend, who will they target in free agency?
A: Defensive players.
The Vikings need an EDGE rusher, linebacker, and some cornerbacks. Last weekend, we wrote about Minnesota possibly pursuing Bryce Callahan and Kyle Fuller, who have connections to Ed Donatell. We fully expect either Callahan or Fuller to be a Viking in September.
Kwesi Adofo-Mensah must rebuild a defense in seven months. That begins in free agency. If the Vikings replenish the piggy bank, expect a litany of defensive personnel to join O’Connell’s squad in March and April. They’re needed.
Q: All I see is mock drafts! Is it really a done deal for the Vikings to draft another cornerback?
A: If you believe the efficacy of mock drafts — yes, a cornerback is coming to a purple and gold team near you.
Undoubtedly, Minnesota drafting a corner is the “favorite” right now. Cameron Dantzler is in a room all by himself. He could use a Sauce Gardner, Derek Stingley Jr., or Trent McDuffie at his side for the regular season.
Garnder is the odds-on favorite, but a lot of draft stock can change between now and April 28th. For example, if Kirk Cousins is traded — boom — the team needs a quarterback, which is a big deal.
Dustin Baker is a political scientist who graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2007. He hosts a podcast with Bryant McKinnie, which airs every Wednesday with Raun Sawh and Sally from Minneapolis. His Viking fandom dates back to 1996. Listed guilty pleasures: Peanut Butter Ice Cream, ‘The Sopranos,’ and The Doors (the band).
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