MINNESOTA VIKINGS
Round 1 (No. 32 overall, from Rams through Lions) – Lewis Cine, S, Georgia: So a first round that began with a Bulldogs defender also ends with one. A 6-2, 200-pounder with sub-4.4 speed, Cine is an enforcer in the deep half. But he can also operate near the line or cover from the slot. He and Harrison Smith ought to be a formidable safety duo for a Minnesota team that’s been betrayed by its defense in recent seasons.
Round 2 (No. 42 overall, from Commanders through Colts) – Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson: The Vikes, who took Georgia S Lewis Cine at the end of Round 1, continue refitting their secondary with a talented corner who gets to learn the ropes from veteran Patrick Peterson.
Round 2 (59, from Packers) – Ed Ingram, OG, LSU: A fixture at left guard for the Tigers, pass protection is his bread and butter. QB Kirk Cousins approves.
Round 3 (66, from Lions) – Brian Asamoah, LB, Oklahoma: Undersized, but moves well and could cover some ground alongside Eric Kendricks.
Round 4 (118, from Browns) – Akayleb Evans, CB, Missouri
Round 5 (165, from Raiders) – Esezi Otomewo, DE, Minnesota
Round 5 (169, from Titans through Raiders) – Ty Chandler, RB, North Carolina
Round 6 (184, from Jets) – Vederian Lowe, OT, Illinois
Round 6 (191, from Ravens through Chiefs) – Jalen Nailor, WR, Michigan State
Round 7 (227, from Panthers through Raiders) – Nick Muse, TE, South Carolina
Grade: B
New GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s first draft was arguably just what the Vikes needed. Perfectly content to swing trades with the division rival Packers and Lions, Adofo-Mensah worked the board on the way to adding Cine, Booth, Ingram and Asamoah in the first 66 picks. All project as opening-day starters, especially important for a Minnesota defense that consistently betrayed this offense in recent seasons.