The NFL Drafthas been a mixed bag for the Minnesota Vikings in recent years, with general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah facingcriticism—especially for the 2022 draft class.
Adofo-Mensah’s Draft Struggles & Course Correction
The failures of Lewis Cine and Andrew Booth Jr.—when the team could have selected Kyle Hamilton—have haunted Vikings fans. However, it’s clear that Minnesota has taken steps to refine its draft process since then.
One example of this improved approach comes from the latest NFL Mock Draft by Travis May (A to Z Sports), where the Vikings select Texas defensive back Jahdae Barron.
Jahdae Barron: A Versatile Defensive Weapon
Position Flexibility: Barron has played both cornerback and safety, making him a valuable chess piece for a Vikings team with major secondary concerns. 2024 Role: Primarily played outside corner, though he has extensive experience as a nickel/safety hybrid—a role he excelled in during 2023. Strengths: Barron can line up outside, in the slot, in the box, or deep—offering scheme versatility that the Vikings desperately need.
Vikings’ Secondary in Need of Reinforcement
Minnesota’s secondary is facing major turnover, with only one or two key defensive backs expected to return in 2025. With Harrison Smith’s future uncertain, selecting **Barron—who won the Jim Thorpe Award for the nation’s top DB—**would be a smart move to solidify the unit.
What’s Next for the Vikings?
With free agency looming, the Vikings’ draft strategy will likely focus on the secondary. If Barron is available, his versatility and playmaking ability make him a prime target for Minnesota.
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