2008 Minnesota Vikings NFL Draft Needs

The biggest weakness on Minnesota's team, next to poor play in the defensive secondary, is inconsistent QB play. But all signs point to the Vikes ignoring this need and attempting to put more playmakers around QB Tavaris Jackson because they don't want to take a step backwards by developing a young signal caller. The Vikes' front office has shown us that they will take the best player available when they go on the clock. Chester Taylor was coming off a 1,200 yard season, but they could not pass on Adrian Peterson last year. So don't be surprised if they pass on a bigger need to get a better player. Our 2008 Minnesota Vikings NFL draft needs article will show you where they will likely be looking first.

#1 Wide Receiver

When Chris Carter and Randy Moss worked as number one and number two receivers, it was poetry and motion in the Metrodome. The Vikings would like to land another big play receiver with the ability to draw double teams. Because wide receiver doesn't look to be a large need throughout the league, the Vikes should get a crack at LSU's Early Doucet or Oklahoma State's Adarius Bowman at pick number 17.

#2 Safety

With Darren Sharper entering the final year of his deal and Dwight Smith dealing with off-the-field issues, the Vikes must address this key spot in their secondary. The backups are not worthy of stepping in and becoming big time players so look for Minnesota to go fishing for a star in the draft. Notre Dame's Tom Zbikowski is a great possibility.

#3 Defensive End

Every team in the NFL wants a premier pass rusher coming off the edge and Minnesota is no different. The Vikes have good run stuffers up the middle, but they could use a player on the outside to get some more heat on opposing QB's. None of Minnesota's defensive ends finished with more than five sacks last season, which is just unacceptable by today's standards. Purdue's Cliff Avril is a good option because of his versatility.

#4 Right Tackle

Minnesota has a good offensive line, but it needs to add depth to keep a season ending injury to one of the front five from hurting them too badly. The Vikes do not have a potential replacement at right tackle and could take Division II Newberry's Heath Benedict as a strong developmental prospect.

#5 Quarterback

The Vikes would like Tavaris Jackson to be the long term starter, but I'm not convinced he is that good and I'm not sure the Vikes are either. Kelly Holcomb is nearing the end of his career and Brooks Bollinger is far from great. Childress like mobile QB's, so don't be surprised if he takes a shot at Oregon's Dennis Dixon in the later rounds.

Make sure you check out all of Jimmy Boyd's 2008 NFL Draft previews to see what direction your favorite NFL team might be headed in. Also check out our 2008 NFL Mock Draft to see how Jimmy sees the first round shaping up.

April 6th, 2008