Miller chose to rank 100 picks based on talent, value, and fit
The NFL Draft was a confusing time for Minnesota Vikings fans as the draft haul wasn't graded very highly pundits and the fan base. The first-round pick wasn't on anyone's radar aside from a few and the player the team was essentially guaranteed to select in Dillon Thieneman was passed on before he became a Chicago Bear.
ESPN's Matt Miller put together his ranking of the best 100 picks and at #43 is first-round pick Caleb Banks.
My final overall ranking: No. 48
"The biggest surprise of Round 1 -- more than Simpson or Tate -- was Banks finding his way into the top 20. Foot injuries sidelined Banks throughout last season and in the predraft process, but he should be seen as an immediate starter when healthy, with Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave being released this offseason. The middle of the Vikings' line was low on talent, and Banks is easily the most traits-rich player on the roster. Based on value, this pick is a big reach, but it fills a massive need. And the high-end potential from Banks makes it understandable in a draft class that was low on starting-level defensive tackles."
Clearly, Miller wasn't as angry as the fan base was with the pick. Which other draft picks made the list?
68. Domonique Orange, DT
My final overall ranking: No. 68
The Vikings doubled up at defensive tackle with "Big Citrus." As discussed earlier, defensive tackle was one of two weak links on the roster (along with safety), and with the safety class showing more depth, the Vikings went heavy early at D-tackle. The return on investment will be huge if they can get two starting-level defensive tackles on rookie contracts. Like Banks, Orange will be given every opportunity to start in Week 1.
Orange has the best nickname in the draft class hands down and will get an opportunity to show how he earned the nickname in Week 1.
83. Max Bredeson, FB
My final overall ranking: No. 126
When a fullback comes off the board in Round 5, we're going to celebrate. Bredeson was a rock for Michigan and has the flexibility to line up as a fullback or H-back. A former quarterback and walk-on, Bredeson was invaluable to the Michigan offense thanks to his ability to align in multiple roles. He had no peers in the class as a blocker. If there's going to be a power run game in Minnesota, Bredeson is the fullback you want kicking it off.
CJ Ham's replacement makes the list as the Vikings offense is one of the few that still employs a fullback.
85. Demond Claiborne, RB
My final overall ranking: No. 160
Claiborne can be the lightning to the thunder of veteran Aaron Jones Sr. and Bredeson. A speedy back at 5-10, 188 pounds, Claiborne lit up the combine with a 4.37 40, but also runs with good power on a compact frame. His value as a third-down back will be seen early, and his 51 catches over the past two seasons show what he can do coming out of the backfield as a receiver.
The selection of Claiborne is about value, and selecting a running back with the talent of Claiborne that late is simply a shrewd move.