Archive for March 20th, 2009
22. Minnesota Vikings
-Percy Harvin (WR/Florida)
- Percy Harvin (NFL.com)
Minnesota wants another offensive play-maker to take some pressure off of Adrian Peterson in the run game. Bernard Berrian provides a deep threat, and Sidney Rice is a decent alternative. But there are no players out wide to keep opposing defenses from stacking the middle against Peterson. Improving the 7th worst team in receiving yards per game would add balance to one of the NFL’s best rushing offenses.
The Vikings showed interest in signing T.J. Houshmandzadeh, who is a top notch possession receiver. Therefore, they may still be in the market for a solid pass catcher in the draft, although I feel candidate Hakeem Nicks will be gone, and Kenny Britt won’t be valued quite this highly. The next best alternative is the extremely elusive Percy Harvin from Florida.
At his pro day, Harvin demonstrated the kind of supreme quickness out of his stance to give defenders nightmares. He is a bonafide impact player who excels in short passes caught in space, turning 5 yard gains into potential touchdowns. At Florida, he was mainly used as a hybrid running back, so you can be sure he has some power and vision, which scouts absolutely love in a receiver. Brad Childress would no doubt appreciate such a versatile player who can easily make big contributions in special teams and run/passing game. I can only imagine defenses trying to account for him when he appears to be able to play all over the field.
-It’s no secret that Minnesota was displeased with Ryan Cook’s performance at RT. Any viable chance to replace him will be heavily considered by Vikings personnel on draft day. What I’ve heard is that Ryan Cook will be given a chance at center in an attempt to replace Matt Birk. In this case, the Vikings would have a vacancy on the right side, which likely will be addressed in some capacity during the draft. I just don’t believe there are any tackles available worth the Vikings first pick.
-Others have sited the need for another solid cornerback but the Tampa Two defense the Vikings run doesn’t place a huge value on corners. Not to mention that the remaining top corners (Darius Butler, Alphonso Smith, D.J. Moore) aren’t very large and may not be the type of player that fits their defensive scheme. The team can grab a big, run-supporting corner after the first round.
Any Suggestions here would help me out 
Next on the clock: New England Patriots
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