3 Bold Predictions for the Vikings in 2020 NFL Draft

The Minnesota Vikings won a playoff game last year, but the trade of Stefon Diggs and the departure of top defensive backs like Xavier Rhodes, Trae Waynes, and Mackensie Alexander will likely force the team to use their two first-round picks to rebuild their D from the ground up. Minnesota, a team that loves to trade down in the draft, might need to break character in order to reinforce that roster.

3. They Use A Day 1 or 2 Pick on an Edge Rusher

LSU's K'Lavon Chaisson is extremely explosive and bendy, and the former Tiger would be an ideal fit for a Vikings defense that just lost Everson Griffen in free agency. If Chaisson is gone, however, the Vikings need not fret, as the second and third round of this draft will contain players like Utah's Bradlee Anae and Notre Dame's Julian Okwara, both of whom could be expected to take up tons of snaps in Year 1.

2. Passing On a Wide Receiver In The First Round

Most expect the second of the Vikings' two first-round picks to be used on a No. 2 wide receiver that can take the pressure off of Adam Thielen, but that would be really unwise given that the second and third rounds have plenty of quality receivers that could get early snaps. Players like Penn State's KJ Hamler, Florida's Van Jefferson, and Notre Dame's Chase Claypool could help Zimmer and Kirk Cousins put the Diggs era fully in the past.

1. Trading Up For CJ Henderson

Jeff Okudah is going to be the first cornerback off the board in the 2020 NFL draft, but Henderson is clearly the No. 2 cornerback in this class given his sticky man coverage skills and the way he attacks the ball in the air. There is no chance the Florida Gator is available by pick No. 22, but Minnesota has a golden opportunity to land him if they package both of their picks in an attempt to move into the top half of Round 1.