The Minnesota Vikings have been making headlines as the NFL Draft approaches, with many speculating that the team would be targeting a top quarterback with their first-round pick. However, head coach Mike Zimmer has recently put the brakes on this theory, leaving fans and analysts wondering what direction the team will take come draft day.
It’s no secret that the Vikings are in need of a franchise quarterback. The departure of Case Keenum and the uncertain future of Teddy Bridgewater have left the team with a void at the quarterback position. With the 2018 draft class boasting some highly-touted QB prospects, it seemed like a no-brainer that the Vikings would use their first-round pick to address this need.
But in a recent press conference, Coach Zimmer made it clear that the team’s draft strategy may not revolve around selecting a quarterback after all. “We’re going to take the best player available,” Zimmer stated. “If that happens to be a quarterback, then so be it. But we’re not going to force it.”
This statement may come as a surprise to many, but it’s a smart move by Coach Zimmer and the Vikings organization. While a top quarterback prospect may be tempting, it’s important to remember that the draft is about building a well-rounded team, not just filling one specific need.
And let’s not forget, the Vikings already have a solid quarterback in Kirk Cousins. While he may not be a flashy first-round pick, Cousins has proven himself to be a reliable and talented quarterback in the league. With a strong supporting cast on offense, there’s no reason to believe that Cousins won’t thrive in Minnesota.
So what does this mean for the Vikings’ draft strategy? It means that they will have the freedom to select the best player available, regardless of position. This could lead to some surprising picks, but ultimately it will result in a stronger and more well-rounded team.
But don’t count out the possibility of the Vikings still selecting a quarterback in the later rounds. With a deep draft class at the position, there’s a good chance that the team will still look to add some depth and competition at the position. And with Coach Zimmer’s track record of developing young talent, any quarterback selected by the Vikings will be in good hands.
One thing is for sure, the Vikings are in a good position heading into the draft. With a solid roster and a strong coaching staff, the team has the luxury of being able to take the best player available, rather than reaching for a specific position.
And let’s not forget, the Vikings have a history of making smart draft picks. Just look at their recent first-round selections of Stefon Diggs, Anthony Barr, and Harrison Smith. All of these players have become key contributors to the team and have helped lead the Vikings to success.
So while it may be disappointing for some fans to hear that the team may not be targeting a quarterback with their first-round pick, it’s important to trust in the coaching staff and their decision-making. The Vikings have a plan in place and they are confident in their ability to build a winning team.
In the end, the draft is just one piece of the puzzle for the Vikings. With a talented roster and a strong coaching staff, the team is poised for success in the upcoming season. So let’s trust in Coach Zimmer and the Vikings organization as they navigate the draft and continue to build a winning team. Skol Vikings!
