In the build up to the draft, I had a simple goal for the Vikings of drafting at least three players that could make an impact in 2018. I don't mean getting a couple tackles on special teams, even though that would technically count as making an impact. The exception to that would be if the player managed to lead the team in ST tackles and also got a turnover or was tremendous at limiting returns.
What I would hope they work themselves into is guys that make plays on offense or defense. Keeping the QB upright as an offensive lineman. Getting into the backfield to stop big plays or to sack the Quarterback as a d - lineman. Getting an interception, or multiple, as a defensive back or linebacker. Gaining yards, making catches and scoring touchdowns as an offensive skill position player. You get the point.
So how do those expectations/hopes stack up to how things have gone in the draft? We won't know that until the games are played. I'm a big believer in allowing two seasons to be played out before making a bunch of hard judgements on players. Doesn't mean that immediate and quicker reactions can't be right but in fairness to the young men, I think 32 games is an appropriate sample size for fans. So sorry Laquan, you're a bust. That said, I got some takes on the newest additions to the Purple covenant.
Round 5 - Tyler Conklin (TE)
If anyone needed proof that I have no inside information about the Vikings, here's some. I said early in the mocking process that the Vikings could maybe add a tight end late in the draft but the more I thought about it, the more that changed.
Well not only did they draft one in the low middle of the seven rounds of glory but they traded up to do so. It seems to me that this is a sure sign of not being satisfied with what they currently have at the position. But a fifth rounder at a position that normally takes a while to translate doesn't make a lot of sense to me. Not to really fill a need. So I still see them going with TE high in next years draft.
As for Conklin, I'd say most of his playing time will come on special teams. He wasn't especially fast so gunner is out of the question but maybe he can learn how to block and tackle a little bit.
Overall, I'm not a fan of this one but like all the selections, time will tell what the player can do on the highest level!