Final Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft Before Week 1

The NFL regular season is right around the corner, making it the perfect time for a final preseason mock draft. In this three-round Minnesota Vikings mock, they find their franchise quarterback and add talent to both sides of the ball.

Before we begin, it’s important to clarify the intention of this mock. It isn’t trying to predict next April; that’s irrational. Far too much will change before then. However, it’s still a valuable exercise to familiarize fans with potential prospects and outcomes that could resurface. Keep that in mind throughout.

That said, let's keep the introduction short and sweet and dive into a three-round Vikings mock draft. 

Round One: CJ Carr- QB, Notre Dame

CJ Carr is a high-IQ quarterback who thrives at dissecting defenses from the pocket. His pinpoint accuracy and poise make him arguably the top signal-caller in college football. He’s a point guard as he’s decisive with the ball and gets it to his playmakers in space. Beyond this, he’s a capable scrambler and uses his legs to extend plays. He won’t be Superman or make constant Sports Center top-10 plays, but he can lead a team deep into the postseason.

The JJ McCarthy experiment has failed in Minnesota, leaving Kyler Murray as the starter. The former first-overall pick has the experience and talent, but has been plagued by inconsistency. If he doesn’t improve, then grabbing a quarterback in the draft changes from an intriguing option to a necessity.

Round Two: Brice Pollock- CB, Texas Tech

Brice Pollock is a dream fit in Brian Flores’ defense. The six-foot, 195-pound senior is an instinctual zone coverage cornerback who uses his instincts and ball skills to wreak havoc on opposing offenses. He’s coming off a stellar season at Texas Tech, grabbing five interceptions and only allowing a passer rating of 35.7 when targeted.  Pollock needs to improve in man coverage, as he struggles against fast, twitchy receivers, but he’s an enticing option for the Vikings, especially with their need at cornerback.

Byron Murphy Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers are both starting-caliber players, but they lack depth behind them. Additionally, Rodgers will be an unrestricted free agent next offseason. As a result, they must bolster the unit and add young talent.

Round Three: Bryant Wesco Jr.- WR, Clemson

Bryant Wesco is coming off a severe back injury, but his dangerous speed, flashes of route running, and ability after the catch make him a dangerous weapon. The six-foot-two, 195-pound junior has long strides that threaten a defender deep. Then, he’s flashed the ability to sink his hips and decelerate instantly, creating ample separation. If he’s healthy, don’t be surprised to hear Wesco’s name called early next April.

Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison are an elite receiver tandem. However, Addison’s legal troubles and its lack of depth makes it a position worth addressing.

Round Three: Tao Johnson- S, UCLA

Tao Johnson is a rangy safety who pairs outstanding athleticism with elite versatility and would be a valuable chess piece in Brian Flores’ defense. Although he’s undersized at six-foot, 194 pounds, he’s fearless defending the run. His blazing vertical speed makes him a reliable second-level defender. He must develop better tackling technique, but he’s an underrated prospect who could make headlines next offseason.

Safety is a major need for the Vikings. Harrison Smith is still debating his future, and they lack another proven free safety. Because of this, Flores will likely add to the position in the 2027 NFL Draft.