I’m not sure how many outlets create their draft rankings, whether it is based on team needs, total talent acquired or the value in where players were acquired (for example, catching a falling player). I think there is something to be said about how wide open a team’s “window” is. In this regard, I have to say the Vikings had a phenomenal draft this weekend.
Let me contrast them with the Colts first. Indianapolis is on the precipice of another extended run of excellence thanks to a second year quarterback who was one of them most highly touted prospects in 20 years. They drafted well last year, but they had several holes and some depth issues to build the team for the future. They could add some guys that could develop over the course of time, and really maximize their potential in a few years. Instead, they had one first round pick (meh) none in the second, and one each in the third and fourth round. Sure, they are projects, but I would have appreciated more day 2 picks that could grow into their position. Instead, the Colts offseason has been marked by questionable trades and free agent acquisitions, and as a result, the team is marginally better, but I don’t see a deep, well rounded team going forward.
The Vikings, on the other hand, have a shorter window. They are built around their ground game and defense. Their team may not be young, but they are talented and poised now. Adrian Peterson only has a few years left, because he is a running back, and after he is gone, the team has some serious question marks. This offseason, the Vikings aggressively went after some of the most glaring of weaknesses. They signed Greg Jennings, and traded a locker room bother in Percy Harvin. They used their extra mid round picks to move up and take guys that will help them win in the next two years, the future be damned. They now have a younger, talented secondary. They have a very good offensive line. They have multiple wide receivers for Ponder to work with, including a still youthful tight end.
A lot of people might pan the Vikings for giving up depth by getting top talent to help immediately, but I won’t. This was the draft the Vikings needed to have, so I will give them the credit they deserve. Congratulations Vikings fans. It remains to be seen whether or not it works out for you, but at least your team has the right idea.
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