BREAKING NEWS: Vikings Targets Another 8 Senior Bowl Draft brilliant key players

February 1, 2024 emilysportnews-admin MINNESOTA VIKINGS 0

The 2024 Senior Bowl in Mobile, AL, has completed three days of practices, with the showcase game scheduled for Saturday. The Vikings have a significant presence at this crucial pre-draft event, with key figures such as Kevin O’Connell, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, and several other executives, coaches, and scouts in attendance. Notably, three defensive coaches—Daronte Jones, Imarjaye Albury, and Michael Hutchings—are part of the National team’s coaching staff. The Vikings have utilized this opportunity for comprehensive evaluation, including on-field assessments, coaching interactions, and face-to-face meetings with numerous draft prospects. As the event unfolds, here are eight standout players from the Senior Bowl who could emerge as potential draft targets for the Vikings in April.

Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington

The top three consensus quarterbacks in this year’s draft, namely Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and Jayden Daniels, are notably absent from the Senior Bowl. To secure one of these coveted prospects, such as J.J. McCarthy, the Vikings would likely need to trade up, possibly into the top three draft positions. However, since McCarthy is not participating in Mobile either, the spotlight has shifted to Heisman finalists Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix during the Senior Bowl.

Michael Penix Jr., whose prominence rose as he guided Washington to the national title game this year, entered the week with the aim of demonstrating to teams that his arm talent surpasses concerns about his age and injury history. While reports indicate he had a solid but not standout week of practice, Penix is recognized for his exceptional deep-ball throwing ability, accuracy across all three levels, and sufficient athleticism to extend plays in challenging situations. Although the risk factor might make selecting him at No. 11 appear steep, he could become a target for the Vikings post-trade down or potentially with the 42nd overall pick.

Bo Nix, QB, Oregon

Bo Nix is the second quarterback in consideration for a first-round selection, and he faced a significant opportunity to showcase his skills during the Senior Bowl. Reports suggest that he had a mixed performance, experiencing a slow start early in the week but finishing strongly on Thursday. This pattern mirrors his collegiate journey, characterized by initial struggles at Auburn followed by dominant performances in the last two seasons at Oregon. In the 2023 season, Nix displayed remarkable statistics, throwing for 4,500 yards and recording 45 touchdowns with an impressive ratio of just three interceptions.

Teams must assess whether Nix’s success at Oregon was largely influenced by the quarterback-friendly system. While he possesses accuracy and dual-threat skills, he is an older prospect, lacking the explosive arm talent of someone like Penix. There is a possibility that both players could be selected within the top 15 picks, but they may also potentially slide into Day 2 of the draft.

Spencer Rattler, QB, South Carolina

Apart from Penix and Nix, there are five other quarterbacks in Mobile aiming to make a strong impression and climb up the draft rankings. These include Spencer Rattler (South Carolina), Michael Pratt (Tulane), Sam Hartman (Notre Dame), Joe Milton III (Tennessee), and Carter Bradley (South Alabama). Among them, Rattler stands out as particularly intriguing.

Originally the top quarterback in the 2019 recruiting class, which featured talents like Daniels, Nix, and Sam Howell, Rattler kicked off his career at Oklahoma before spending the last two seasons at South Carolina. Despite possessing various skills, his college performance exhibited inconsistency, with 48 touchdown passes and 25 interceptions over the past three seasons, following a breakout 2020 at OU. Rattler had a lot to gain during the week and capitalized on the opportunity with an impressive series of practices. This strong showing could position him as a potential Day 2 pick in the draft.

Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

Based on on-site observations, Mitchell emerged as a strong contender for the title of the best defensive player during the week. His standout performances at the Senior Bowl have propelled him into the discussion for the top cornerback position, alongside notable players such as Terrion Arnold and Nate Wiggins. As a member of the National team, Mitchell had the opportunity to receive coaching directly from the Vikings’ Jones and Hutchings. Following an impressive week of effectively shutting down receivers, Mitchell is now considered a viable option for the 11th pick, potentially landing with the Minnesota Vikings.

Cam Hart, CB, Notre Dame

Another cornerback from the National team who may catch the attention of the Vikings is Hart. This prospect boasts a substantial physique and is known for playing robust press coverage. Standing at an impressive 6’3″ and weighing 204 pounds, Hart combines excellent length with agile movement, showcasing notable mobility for his size. Over the past three seasons, he demonstrated his defensive prowess with 17 passes defended, along with 10.5 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles. Following a standout week, Hart’s performance could elevate his draft stock, potentially positioning him as a Day 2 pick.

Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA

Latu stands out as the unequivocal top prospect among edge rushers at this year’s Senior Bowl. The UCLA standout earned the highest grade among all college football EDGE players in the previous season, amassing an impressive 13 sacks and 21.5 total tackles for loss. Renowned for his dynamic and flexible athleticism, Latu is also recognized as a skilled technician in the realm of pass rushing, offering significant potential at the professional level. His lethal cross chop move adds another dimension to his game.

Despite his on-field excellence, Latu’s draft evaluation comes with a notable concern – a career-threatening neck injury during his time at Washington led to a two-season hiatus before he was medically cleared to play at UCLA. If teams are assured of his medical condition, Latu could find himself in the conversation for the top edge rusher alongside Dallas Turner and Jared Verse. Latu, who showcased his abilities with two strong days of practice in Mobile (followed by a rest day due to soreness), is a viable option for the Vikings with the 11th pick.

Darius Robinson, DL/EDGE, Missouri

Robinson has emerged as one of the standout performers during Senior Bowl week, showcasing his skills as a 6’5″, 286-pound defensive lineman. His ability to excel in both pass rushing and powerful run defense has caught the attention of observers. The Mizzou standout had a breakout season in 2023 as a fifth-year senior, amassing 8.5 sacks and 14 total tackles for loss. Throughout the practices in Mobile, Robinson displayed dominance, making an impact from the edge as well as when lined up at the three-technique position. Known for his aggressive and physical style of play, Robinson’s impressive showing has propelled him into consideration for a potential first-round selection in the upcoming draft.

Adisa Isaac, EDGE, Penn State

While Latu takes the spotlight, another impressive edge rusher from the National team working with the Vikings’ Albury is Isaac, anticipated to be a second-round pick. His standout performances during team periods, particularly on Thursday with multiple potential sacks, have garnered attention. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 250 pounds, Isaac showcased his skills with an impressive 27 tackles for loss, including 11.5 sacks, over the past two seasons at Penn State. His well-rounded game aligns with the qualities the Vikings seek in their edge rushers, making Isaac an appealing prospect for the team.

Other names to know

  • Max Melton, CB, Rutgers
  • Chau Smith-Wade, CB, Washington State
  • Sione Vaki, S, Utah
  • Austin Booker, EDGE, Kansas
  • T’Vondre Sweat, DL, Texas
  • Michael Hall Jr., DL, Ohio State

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