2023 NFL Draft Predictions: Vikings Biggest Team Needs

The Minnesota Vikings had a successful year in Kevin O’Connell’s first season. The Vikings won the NFC North division with a 13-4 record.

Minnesota went 4-2 in the division, splitting the two matchups with the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers while going 2-0 against the Chicago Bears. Meanwhile, general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah showed he isn’t afraid to push in the chips.

The team traded for T.J. Hockenson at the trade deadline, giving the offense a needed boost. The Vikings had a 7-3 record with Hockenson on the roster, scoring 27 or more points six times. Unfortunately, the Vikings lost 31-24 in the first round of the playoffs to the New York Giants.

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What Are The Minnesota Vikings Biggest Needs On Offense?

Minnesota had to make several difficult decisions this offseason. One of them was to release veteran wide receiver, Adam Thielen. Unfortunately, that leaves the team thin at the wide receiver on the depth chart behind Justin Jefferson.

Thankfully, the 2023 NFL Draft has several first-round graded wide receivers. The Vikings have done their homework on the group, including bringing in Quentin Johnston for a visit earlier this month.

K.J. Osborn has been productive in his career. Over the past two years, the former Miami receiver had 110 receptions on 172 targets for 1,305 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. However, he isn’t a capable No. 2 wide receiver. Furthermore, Osborn is entering the final year of his rookie contract. Therefore, expect the Vikings to use their first-round pick on a wide receiver to pair with their superstar.

What Are The Minnesota Vikings Biggest Needs On Defense?

The Vikings made several moves on defense in free agency, adding Dean Lowry, Marcus Davenport, and Byron Murphy. However, they released longtime starting linebacker Eric Kendricks because of their salary cap situation.

One potential replacement option is DeMarvion Overshown. The former Longhorns star linebacker had an outstanding college career. He had over 249 tackles, nine sacks, and three interceptions at Texas. Furthermore, Overshown is an athletic star.

Unfortunately, Minnesota only has five picks in the 2023 NFL Draft because of the Hockenson trade. They don’t have a second-round selection this year. Therefore, the Vikings must find impact players in the middle rounds. The good news for the team is that Overshown projects as a Day 3 selection.

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