It has been assumed that the secondary would get a lift in the first round
Dillon Theineman, Aveion Terrell, and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren have rotated in mock drafts as the consensus pick for the Minnesota Vikings at pick 18. The thing about mock drafts is understanding needs and putting pieces together to make an educated guess. That is what makes the exercise so fun.
Chad Reuter of NFL.com has different ideas for the Vikings and their first-round pick. The draft analyst just released his five-round mock draft and believes the Vikings should address the defensive line with their top 20 pick.
Round 1, Pick 18 - Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
"Banks is a run stuffer with the ability to get in the face (and passing lanes) of opposing quarterbacks. Solid long-term investment for Minnesota's D-line."
Banks lit up the combine with his athletic profile. There is concern about his ability to be a consistent pass rusher at the next level. This would be a risky pick for the Vikings. The upside is there, but Banks has big bust potential considering his draft investment.
Round 2, Pick 49 - D'Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
As one of the few Indiana Hoosiers who stuck with the football program, I believe in Ponds. His performance at Indiana's pro day will push him up draft boards. The speed is there, and the young man is sticky in coverage, but the concern comes in with his size in the NFL.
Still, I believe in the cornerback, and he will be a fine addition for Minnesota and Brian Flores.
Round 3, Pick 82 - Genesis Smith, S, Arizona
Smith would replace Harrison Smith. This isn't just trying to remain consistent with the last name at the position. There is no doubt that Smith is athletic. Smith is a ballhawk, but has to clean up tackling angles. Still, at pick 82, this isn't a bad idea.
Round 5, Pick 163 - Demond Claiborne, RB, Wake Forest
I absolutely do not mind this investment for a running back in the fifth round. The way the NFL has shifted from investing in running backs in the draft to finding them off the street has forced teams to pass on some good football players, but this is the proper round to address the position.
What do you think about this mock draft? Is Reuter neglecting positions with higher picks? Did he get it just right? If I were a Vikings fan, I'd feel very good about this draft class.