Vikings Drafting QB Anthony Gordon in the Middle Rounds Would Be Ideal Fit Behind Kirk Cousins

Quarterback Kirk Cousins made it clear to Vikings fans that he's there to stay after a quality season in Minnesota last year. Cousins had the fourth-highest quarterback rating among qualified players at 107.4. That mark put him ahead of such established stars like Russell Wilson and Aaron Rogers in 2019, an encouraging sign of what's to come in the Twin Cities.

The Vikings doubled down on Cousins this offseason, signing him to a two-year, $66 million contract extension. They clearly have their starting QB situation figured out, but behind "Captain Kirk," there are questions. That's why they need to make sure they do all they homework ahead of the 2020 NFL Draft.

Their second-stringer, Sean Mannion, joined the team last season after spending his first four professional years with the Rams. His numbers are less than stellar. In his one start for Minnesota, Mannion totaled 126 yards, zero touchdowns, and two interceptions in a Week 17 game against the Chicago Bears. Behind Mannion? Undrafted Washington product Jake Browning, who hasn't made an NFL appearance to date.

With their current backup situation, the Vikings could easily be seen trying to grab a QB prospect in the later rounds, and Washington State's Anthony Gordon is the right kind of fit.

Gordon put together an outstanding year in 2019, throwing 48 touchdowns in 13 games. Gordon isn't projected as a first-tier QB in this years draft, as he only started one full season in Pullman and will have to work to shed the "system quarterback" label often attached to college signal-callers who learn under Mike Leach. But by the mid-to-late rounds, he's the right kind of guy for Minnesota to grab as an understudy for Cousins.

And one day, he could be ready to state his case as a starter.

Given his ability to air it out, Gordon would be a smart pickup for the Vikings as soon as Day 2 of the NFL Draft.