Could the Vikings add another receiver in the draft?
The Minnesota Vikings have started to bring in college prospects to visit the facility as part of their top-30 visits. For some, it is a clear indication of draft intent. For others, it is viewed as a game and a total smoke screen. Looking at the Vikings' team needs, wide receiver could be viewed as a top need with the departure of Jalen Nailor for Las Vegas.
One of the visits is Georgia Tech wide receiver Ted Hurst. Who is Ted Hurst?
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 206 lbs
Arm: 32 5/8"
Hand: 9 3/4"
The first thing that jumps out at you is Hurst's size. This draft has a few big-bodied receivers. The dream is to have a big, strong, wide receiver for the future for any organization.
Well, hello Ted. 4.42 40-yard dash, 1.55 ten-yard split, and the fourth-best athleticism score at 86 per Next Gen Stats.
Here are Lance Zierlein's thoughts on Hurst:
Long-legged, vertical-minded wideout with the speed and ability to stress corners from snap to whistle. Hurst is quick to beat press and hit the accelerator into his route work. He has the hips, feet and balance to run a more robust route tree than what we saw from him in college. He’s an above-average ball-tracker deep and a dangerous catch-and-run option. The hands are average and he needs to become more assertive on 50/50 balls on all three levels. Hurst appears capable of surviving the jump in competition and projects as a “Z” receiver with quality upside.
Hurst projects as the perfect complement for Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. The trio would be a nightmare for defenses, especially with Kyler Murray under center.
Damian Parson of Bleacher Report believes Hurst projects as an "X" more than a "Z" receiver.
Where He Wins
- Has a prototypical boundary X receiver frame. Can box defenders out on in-breaking routes using his body.
- Has a great catch radius, body control and ball skills. Dominates the catch point in contested-catch situations. Uncovers well on back-shoulder fades and makes acrobatic catches look routine.
- Overall good hip fluidity to plant and open quickly on hitches, comebacks and out-breaking routes.
- Long strider with built-up speed to attack defenses vertically.
- Three-level threat and route-runner.
The Vikings would be wise to add Hurst to their offense. Minnesota could be a death offense to face in 2026. Would be a ton of fun.