The Vikings Case for Drafting a Wide Receiver
The NFL Combine is in full swing and the wide receivers’ 40-yard dash times are out. The 40-yard dash might not be the most important factor for a team to consider, but they are fun to analyze. While analyzing them, there are a few standouts that could get the fans thinking about drafting a wide receiver.
With all the needs the Vikings have on defense and the offensive line, drafting a wide receiver seems ridiculous. However, recent history shows us that even when you have a major need, drafting a great wide receiver might be advantageous. Consider the Bengals’ decision to draft Ja’Marr Chase in 2021 when Penei Sewell was on the board.
The Bengals desperately needed to address their offensive line and were presented an opportunity to do so. However, they elected to add to their skill position group. They already had Tyler Boyd, Tee Higgins, Joe Mixon, and C.J. Uzomah. This setup is eerily similar to what the Vikings have – two wide receivers, a tight end, and a running back. Perhaps, the Vikings take a similar approach. If they did, who should they draft?
Wide Receivers at 12th Overall Pick
When the Vikings are on the clock with the 12th overall pick, there will be a lot of wide receivers available. However, many are worthy of that high of a pick. With that being said, if the Vikings selected a wide receiver, there are a couple that could inject serious talent to the roster.
Chris Olave – One of the best route runners in the class and posted a 40-yard dash time of 4.39. He has blistering on-field speed and can separate from defenders.
Garrett Wilson – Lacks the route runner ability of teammate, Olave. However, he posted a 40-yard dash time of 4.38. He also plays more physically than Olave and has a remarkable ability to run after the catch.
Jameson Williams – Had it not been for tearing his ACL, Williams would have likely been the best wide receiver in the class. Expect him to fall down the board quite a bit. However, he could be a steal for a team in the late first or second round.
Prioritizing Wide Receiver Could Work
Adding more talent at a position like wide receiver is never a bad idea. When evaluating the Vikings’ roster, you notice that Adam Thielen is 32 years old. At some point, they will need to replace him. With some of these prospects likely on the board, it might be worthwhile to consider. However, it’s unlikely they do with the other positional needs.
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Although, as we saw with the Bengals, more firepower on offense can lead to great things. Perhaps the Vikings take a chance on Chris Olave or Garrett Wilson. By doing so, they are inevitably saying, “forget about the defense, let’s go score and score quick.”
In a perfect world, the Vikings add two good cornerbacks in free agency. This would allow them the opportunity to draft one of these top wide receivers in April.
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