quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

Dane Bugler's 7 rd mock.

Count me in through rd 5.

1 (18). Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
2 (49). Lee Hunter, DT, Texas Tech
3 (82). A.J. Haulcy, S, LSU
3 (97). Sam Hecht, C, Kansas State
5 (163). Jeff Caldwell, WR, Cincinnati
6 (196). Mason Reiger, edge, Wisconsin
7 (234). J.C. Davis, OT, Illinois
7 (235). Seth McGowan, RB, Kentucky
7 (244). Josh Cuevas, TE, Alabama

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

I think you ‘thread the needle’ (?) by making solid draft choices that work out, which takes time to make sure they are jackson-like, not cine-like. Before lopping off one of your decent veterans.

Trading Greenard only works because you’ve seen enough from Turner. And the potential contract is a problem.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

ESPN

Minnesota Vikings
Picks: Nos. 18, 49, 82, 97, 163, 196, 234, 235, 244

It took a lot of roster-finagling for the Vikings to get to a cap-compliant position when this league year hit. As such, the Vikings have plenty of 2026 needs and plenty more soon-to-be big 2027 needs. That's a tough balancing act under regular conditions but remember the Vikings have an interim general manager right now. Head coach Kevin O'Connell has never been more powerful in the building. This draft might get weird.

First things first: The Vikings desperately need help on the defensive line. Both Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were released for cap relief, and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is reportedly on the trade market. I don't think the Vikings will grab either position at No. 18 -- the board isn't great for it -- but a trade down could return Missouri edge rusher Zion Young or Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. With nine picks in hand, I'd say with surety the Vikings make at least two picks along their defensive front.

If Minnesota stays at No. 18, a common mock draft pairing gives it Dillon Thieneman, the safety from Oregon, to fill the shoes of Harrison Smith. It's a deep safety class with a few Day 2 options that coordinator Brian Flores will love for their football IQ -- USC's Kamari Ramsey, TCU's Bud Clark -- so I wouldn't mind the team passing on the position in Round 1.

That clears the Vikings to go for "best player available" at No. 18, which feels great. A tackle to provide insurance for Christian Darrisaw's health and Brian O'Neill's contract would be an excellent pick. A corner to challenge Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre would help the defense take a step. At running back and tight end, Aaron Jones Sr. and T.

J. Hockenson both seem unlikely to return for 2027. At center, Blake Brandel is the starter in name only.

Not all of those positions will be optimal at 18, of course. But whenever a coach is in charge of a draft war room, my antennae perk up for aggressive, short-sighted trades that mortgage the future to fill the now. O'Connell's pride is wounded from the offense's failures last season, and I could see him tilting into an unnecessary Kenyon Sadiq trade-up accordingly.

The bottom line: Just take a lot of good players. You'll need them. (Don't trade up for a shiny offensive toy, Kevin O'Connell.)

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

Draft strategy:

- Toss out all metrics.
- Throw combine and pro-day notes in the trash.
- Set an injury bar and exclude all players with injuries that exceed that bar.
- Base performance decisions on on-field production in the competitive conferences.
- Be super careful with any player on a stacked offense or defense, like with Cine on those Georgia defenses.
- Scouts need to put on their big boy hats and analyze who plays the game naturally, who has the smarts, who is instinctive, etc.
- All involved need to accurately determine who lives, breathes, and eats football, who are team players, etc.
- Don't get cute with trades unless you can rob a team while trading down.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

ESPN

Minnesota Vikings
Picks: Nos. 18, 49, 82, 97, 163, 196, 234, 235, 244

It took a lot of roster-finagling for the Vikings to get to a cap-compliant position when this league year hit. As such, the Vikings have plenty of 2026 needs and plenty more soon-to-be big 2027 needs. That's a tough balancing act under regular conditions but remember the Vikings have an interim general manager right now. Head coach Kevin O'Connell has never been more powerful in the building. This draft might get weird.

First things first: The Vikings desperately need help on the defensive line. Both Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were released for cap relief, and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is reportedly on the trade market. I don't think the Vikings will grab either position at No. 18 -- the board isn't great for it -- but a trade down could return Missouri edge rusher Zion Young or Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. With nine picks in hand, I'd say with surety the Vikings make at least two picks along their defensive front.

If Minnesota stays at No. 18, a common mock draft pairing gives it Dillon Thieneman, the safety from Oregon, to fill the shoes of Harrison Smith. It's a deep safety class with a few Day 2 options that coordinator Brian Flores will love for their football IQ -- USC's Kamari Ramsey, TCU's Bud Clark -- so I wouldn't mind the team passing on the position in Round 1.

That clears the Vikings to go for "best player available" at No. 18, which feels great. A tackle to provide insurance for Christian Darrisaw's health and Brian O'Neill's contract would be an excellent pick. A corner to challenge Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre would help the defense take a step. At running back and tight end, Aaron Jones Sr. and T.

J. Hockenson both seem unlikely to return for 2027. At center, Blake Brandel is the starter in name only.

Not all of those positions will be optimal at 18, of course. But whenever a coach is in charge of a draft war room, my antennae perk up for aggressive, short-sighted trades that mortgage the future to fill the now. O'Connell's pride is wounded from the offense's failures last season, and I could see him tilting into an unnecessary Kenyon Sadiq trade-up accordingly.

The bottom line: Just take a lot of good players. You'll need them. (Don't trade up for a shiny offensive toy, Kevin O'Connell.)

I think that perspective is solid for an espn pundit.

I also worry about the draft room dynamic this offseason though somehow someway, I have more confidence in number cruncher Bzrez’s football knowledge over analytics loco Kwesi. But how much?

Will Brzez try to stamp his GM worthiness on picks over making boring conventional but consensus draft picks?

So if KOC has final say … I could definitely see his hand trembling with the Sadiq card, ready to turn it in the micro-second he makes it past the 17th pick. Since day one with Mundt, then Hock, then Oliver … he seems to have an outsized TE fetish.

Depending on who’s on the board, I wouldn’t mind Sadiq but I’ll be pissed, per the article, if we move up one spot for him.

With all our needs this the perfect draft for letting prospects come to us … instead of increasing risk/burning choices by moving up for someone we fancy.

a small tradedown here and there … ok.

This is going to be super interesting to see how the KOC Brzez Flores triangle operates under pressure.

Cant wait.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

Draft strategy:

- Toss out all metrics.
- Throw combine and pro-day notes in the trash.
- Set an injury bar and exclude all players with injuries that exceed that bar.
- Base performance decisions on on-field production in the competitive conferences.
- Be super careful with any player on a stacked offense or defense, like with Cine on those Georgia defenses.
- Scouts need to put on their big boy hats and analyze who plays the game naturally, who has the smarts, who is instinctive, etc.
- All involved need to accurately determine who lives, breathes, and eats football, who are team players, etc.
- Don't get cute with trades unless you can rob a team while trading down.

Your previous post was solid but this one is very incomplete.

You left out the ‘name recognition’ factor like

Lawson Luckie
Tree Babalade
Ka'morreun Pimpton

You still have a week to tighten up your game.

quote:

ORIGINAL: nfrosty

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

ESPN

Minnesota Vikings
Picks: Nos. 18, 49, 82, 97, 163, 196, 234, 235, 244

It took a lot of roster-finagling for the Vikings to get to a cap-compliant position when this league year hit. As such, the Vikings have plenty of 2026 needs and plenty more soon-to-be big 2027 needs. That's a tough balancing act under regular conditions but remember the Vikings have an interim general manager right now. Head coach Kevin O'Connell has never been more powerful in the building. This draft might get weird.

First things first: The Vikings desperately need help on the defensive line. Both Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were released for cap relief, and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is reportedly on the trade market. I don't think the Vikings will grab either position at No. 18 -- the board isn't great for it -- but a trade down could return Missouri edge rusher Zion Young or Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. With nine picks in hand, I'd say with surety the Vikings make at least two picks along their defensive front.

If Minnesota stays at No. 18, a common mock draft pairing gives it Dillon Thieneman, the safety from Oregon, to fill the shoes of Harrison Smith. It's a deep safety class with a few Day 2 options that coordinator Brian Flores will love for their football IQ -- USC's Kamari Ramsey, TCU's Bud Clark -- so I wouldn't mind the team passing on the position in Round 1.

That clears the Vikings to go for "best player available" at No. 18, which feels great. A tackle to provide insurance for Christian Darrisaw's health and Brian O'Neill's contract would be an excellent pick. A corner to challenge Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre would help the defense take a step. At running back and tight end, Aaron Jones Sr. and T.

J. Hockenson both seem unlikely to return for 2027. At center, Blake Brandel is the starter in name only.

Not all of those positions will be optimal at 18, of course. But whenever a coach is in charge of a draft war room, my antennae perk up for aggressive, short-sighted trades that mortgage the future to fill the now. O'Connell's pride is wounded from the offense's failures last season, and I could see him tilting into an unnecessary Kenyon Sadiq trade-up accordingly.

The bottom line: Just take a lot of good players. You'll need them. (Don't trade up for a shiny offensive toy, Kevin O'Connell.)

I think that perspective is solid for an espn pundit.

I also worry about the draft room dynamic this offseason though somehow someway, I have more confidence in number cruncher Bzrez’s football knowledge over analytics loco Kwesi. But how much?

Will Brzez try to stamp his GM worthiness on picks over making boring conventional but consensus draft picks?

So if KOC has final say … I could definitely see his hand trembling with the Sadiq card, ready to turn it in the micro-second he makes it past the 17th pick. Since day one with Mundt, then Hock, then Oliver … he seems to have an outsized TE fetish.

Depending on who’s on the board, I wouldn’t mind Sadiq but I’ll be pissed, per the article, if we move up one spot for him.

With all our needs this the perfect draft for letting prospects come to us … instead of increasing risk/burning choices by moving up for someone we fancy.

a small tradedown here and there … ok.

This is going to be super interesting to see how the KOC Brzez Flores triangle operates under pressure.

Cant wait.

Sadiq would be a cap friendly pick as according to the online hype he has wide receiver speed and route running skills. Eliminates the need for high priced WR3. I suspect he'll be gone before pick 18. Wouldn't be surprised if Kansas City drafts him as a future replacement for Travis kelce.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

quote:

ORIGINAL: nfrosty

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

ESPN

Minnesota Vikings
Picks: Nos. 18, 49, 82, 97, 163, 196, 234, 235, 244

It took a lot of roster-finagling for the Vikings to get to a cap-compliant position when this league year hit. As such, the Vikings have plenty of 2026 needs and plenty more soon-to-be big 2027 needs. That's a tough balancing act under regular conditions but remember the Vikings have an interim general manager right now. Head coach Kevin O'Connell has never been more powerful in the building. This draft might get weird.

First things first: The Vikings desperately need help on the defensive line. Both Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were released for cap relief, and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is reportedly on the trade market. I don't think the Vikings will grab either position at No. 18 -- the board isn't great for it -- but a trade down could return Missouri edge rusher Zion Young or Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. With nine picks in hand, I'd say with surety the Vikings make at least two picks along their defensive front.

If Minnesota stays at No. 18, a common mock draft pairing gives it Dillon Thieneman, the safety from Oregon, to fill the shoes of Harrison Smith. It's a deep safety class with a few Day 2 options that coordinator Brian Flores will love for their football IQ -- USC's Kamari Ramsey, TCU's Bud Clark -- so I wouldn't mind the team passing on the position in Round 1.

That clears the Vikings to go for "best player available" at No. 18, which feels great. A tackle to provide insurance for Christian Darrisaw's health and Brian O'Neill's contract would be an excellent pick. A corner to challenge Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre would help the defense take a step. At running back and tight end, Aaron Jones Sr. and T.

J. Hockenson both seem unlikely to return for 2027. At center, Blake Brandel is the starter in name only.

Not all of those positions will be optimal at 18, of course. But whenever a coach is in charge of a draft war room, my antennae perk up for aggressive, short-sighted trades that mortgage the future to fill the now. O'Connell's pride is wounded from the offense's failures last season, and I could see him tilting into an unnecessary Kenyon Sadiq trade-up accordingly.

The bottom line: Just take a lot of good players. You'll need them. (Don't trade up for a shiny offensive toy, Kevin O'Connell.)

I think that perspective is solid for an espn pundit.

I also worry about the draft room dynamic this offseason though somehow someway, I have more confidence in number cruncher Bzrez’s football knowledge over analytics loco Kwesi. But how much?

Will Brzez try to stamp his GM worthiness on picks over making boring conventional but consensus draft picks?

So if KOC has final say … I could definitely see his hand trembling with the Sadiq card, ready to turn it in the micro-second he makes it past the 17th pick. Since day one with Mundt, then Hock, then Oliver … he seems to have an outsized TE fetish.

Depending on who’s on the board, I wouldn’t mind Sadiq but I’ll be pissed, per the article, if we move up one spot for him.

With all our needs this the perfect draft for letting prospects come to us … instead of increasing risk/burning choices by moving up for someone we fancy.

a small tradedown here and there … ok.

This is going to be super interesting to see how the KOC Brzez Flores triangle operates under pressure.

Cant wait.

Sadiq would be a cap friendly pick as according to the online hype he has wide receiver speed and route running skills. Eliminates the need for high priced WR3. I suspect he'll be gone before pick 18. Wouldn't be surprised if Kansas City drafts him as a future replacement for Travis kelce.

Changing my stance on him. Read he doesn't understand the complexities of route running. Of course every coach in history thinks they can "coach 'em up". He can go train for the 2028 Olympic Decathalon. Having said that, who knows about whatever the he!! I read.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

This is going to be super interesting to see how the KOC Brzez Flores triangle operates under pressure.

Might be analogous to Carter (KOC) and Moss (Flores) yelling at Culpepper (Brzez, who has the final say) "I'm open!"

For Phil, that is an analogy.

Brzez just has to invoke the elder Bush's comment: Stay the course, 1,000 points of light.

https://share.google/FVIQakE8Xx2H94og3

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

ESPN

Minnesota Vikings
Picks: Nos. 18, 49, 82, 97, 163, 196, 234, 235, 244

It took a lot of roster-finagling for the Vikings to get to a cap-compliant position when this league year hit. As such, the Vikings have plenty of 2026 needs and plenty more soon-to-be big 2027 needs. That's a tough balancing act under regular conditions but remember the Vikings have an interim general manager right now. Head coach Kevin O'Connell has never been more powerful in the building. This draft might get weird.

First things first: The Vikings desperately need help on the defensive line. Both Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were released for cap relief, and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is reportedly on the trade market. I don't think the Vikings will grab either position at No. 18 -- the board isn't great for it -- but a trade down could return Missouri edge rusher Zion Young or Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. With nine picks in hand, I'd say with surety the Vikings make at least two picks along their defensive front.

If Minnesota stays at No. 18, a common mock draft pairing gives it Dillon Thieneman, the safety from Oregon, to fill the shoes of Harrison Smith. It's a deep safety class with a few Day 2 options that coordinator Brian Flores will love for their football IQ -- USC's Kamari Ramsey, TCU's Bud Clark -- so I wouldn't mind the team passing on the position in Round 1.

That clears the Vikings to go for "best player available" at No. 18, which feels great. A tackle to provide insurance for Christian Darrisaw's health and Brian O'Neill's contract would be an excellent pick. A corner to challenge Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre would help the defense take a step. At running back and tight end, Aaron Jones Sr. and T.

J. Hockenson both seem unlikely to return for 2027. At center, Blake Brandel is the starter in name only.

Not all of those positions will be optimal at 18, of course. But whenever a coach is in charge of a draft war room, my antennae perk up for aggressive, short-sighted trades that mortgage the future to fill the now. O'Connell's pride is wounded from the offense's failures last season, and I could see him tilting into an unnecessary Kenyon Sadiq trade-up accordingly.

The bottom line: Just take a lot of good players. You'll need them. (Don't trade up for a shiny offensive toy, Kevin O'Connell.)

I think that perspective is solid for an espn pundit.
I also worry about the draft room dynamic this offseason though somehow someway, I have more confidence in number cruncher Bzrez’s football knowledge over analytics loco Kwesi. But how much?
Will Brzez try to stamp his GM worthiness on picks over making boring conventional but consensus draft picks?
So if KOC has final say … I could definitely see his hand trembling with the Sadiq card, ready to turn it in the micro-second he makes it past the 17th pick. Since day one with Mundt, then Hock, then Oliver … he seems to have an outsized TE fetish.
Depending on who’s on the board, I wouldn’t mind Sadiq but I’ll be pissed, per the article, if we move up one spot for him.
With all our needs this the perfect draft for letting prospects come to us … instead of increasing risk/burning choices by moving up for someone we fancy.
a small tradedown here and there … ok.
This is going to be super interesting to see how the KOC Brzez Flores triangle operates under pressure.
Cant wait.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Phil Riewer

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

ESPN

Minnesota Vikings
Picks: Nos. 18, 49, 82, 97, 163, 196, 234, 235, 244

It took a lot of roster-finagling for the Vikings to get to a cap-compliant position when this league year hit. As such, the Vikings have plenty of 2026 needs and plenty more soon-to-be big 2027 needs. That's a tough balancing act under regular conditions but remember the Vikings have an interim general manager right now. Head coach Kevin O'Connell has never been more powerful in the building. This draft might get weird.

First things first: The Vikings desperately need help on the defensive line. Both Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were released for cap relief, and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is reportedly on the trade market. I don't think the Vikings will grab either position at No. 18 -- the board isn't great for it -- but a trade down could return Missouri edge rusher Zion Young or Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. With nine picks in hand, I'd say with surety the Vikings make at least two picks along their defensive front.

If Minnesota stays at No. 18, a common mock draft pairing gives it Dillon Thieneman, the safety from Oregon, to fill the shoes of Harrison Smith. It's a deep safety class with a few Day 2 options that coordinator Brian Flores will love for their football IQ -- USC's Kamari Ramsey, TCU's Bud Clark -- so I wouldn't mind the team passing on the position in Round 1.

That clears the Vikings to go for "best player available" at No. 18, which feels great. A tackle to provide insurance for Christian Darrisaw's health and Brian O'Neill's contract would be an excellent pick. A corner to challenge Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre would help the defense take a step. At running back and tight end, Aaron Jones Sr. and T.

J. Hockenson both seem unlikely to return for 2027. At center, Blake Brandel is the starter in name only.

Not all of those positions will be optimal at 18, of course. But whenever a coach is in charge of a draft war room, my antennae perk up for aggressive, short-sighted trades that mortgage the future to fill the now. O'Connell's pride is wounded from the offense's failures last season, and I could see him tilting into an unnecessary Kenyon Sadiq trade-up accordingly.

The bottom line: Just take a lot of good players. You'll need them. (Don't trade up for a shiny offensive toy, Kevin O'Connell.)

I think that perspective is solid for an espn pundit.
I also worry about the draft room dynamic this offseason though somehow someway, I have more confidence in number cruncher Bzrez’s football knowledge over analytics loco Kwesi. But how much?
Will Brzez try to stamp his GM worthiness on picks over making boring conventional but consensus draft picks?
So if KOC has final say … I could definitely see his hand trembling with the Sadiq card, ready to turn it in the micro-second he makes it past the 17th pick. Since day one with Mundt, then Hock, then Oliver … he seems to have an outsized TE fetish.
Depending on who’s on the board, I wouldn’t mind Sadiq but I’ll be pissed, per the article, if we move up one spot for him.
With all our needs this the perfect draft for letting prospects come to us … instead of increasing risk/burning choices by moving up for someone we fancy.
a small tradedown here and there … ok.
This is going to be super interesting to see how the KOC Brzez Flores triangle operates under pressure.
Cant wait.

I predict they draft Offense early and go Defense late just because of Flores ability to find his type later.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Phil Riewer

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

ESPN

Minnesota Vikings
Picks: Nos. 18, 49, 82, 97, 163, 196, 234, 235, 244

It took a lot of roster-finagling for the Vikings to get to a cap-compliant position when this league year hit. As such, the Vikings have plenty of 2026 needs and plenty more soon-to-be big 2027 needs. That's a tough balancing act under regular conditions but remember the Vikings have an interim general manager right now. Head coach Kevin O'Connell has never been more powerful in the building. This draft might get weird.

First things first: The Vikings desperately need help on the defensive line. Both Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were released for cap relief, and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is reportedly on the trade market. I don't think the Vikings will grab either position at No. 18 -- the board isn't great for it -- but a trade down could return Missouri edge rusher Zion Young or Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. With nine picks in hand, I'd say with surety the Vikings make at least two picks along their defensive front.

If Minnesota stays at No. 18, a common mock draft pairing gives it Dillon Thieneman, the safety from Oregon, to fill the shoes of Harrison Smith. It's a deep safety class with a few Day 2 options that coordinator Brian Flores will love for their football IQ -- USC's Kamari Ramsey, TCU's Bud Clark -- so I wouldn't mind the team passing on the position in Round 1.

That clears the Vikings to go for "best player available" at No. 18, which feels great. A tackle to provide insurance for Christian Darrisaw's health and Brian O'Neill's contract would be an excellent pick. A corner to challenge Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre would help the defense take a step. At running back and tight end, Aaron Jones Sr. and T.

J. Hockenson both seem unlikely to return for 2027. At center, Blake Brandel is the starter in name only.

Not all of those positions will be optimal at 18, of course. But whenever a coach is in charge of a draft war room, my antennae perk up for aggressive, short-sighted trades that mortgage the future to fill the now. O'Connell's pride is wounded from the offense's failures last season, and I could see him tilting into an unnecessary Kenyon Sadiq trade-up accordingly.

The bottom line: Just take a lot of good players. You'll need them. (Don't trade up for a shiny offensive toy, Kevin O'Connell.)

I think that perspective is solid for an espn pundit.
I also worry about the draft room dynamic this offseason though somehow someway, I have more confidence in number cruncher Bzrez’s football knowledge over analytics loco Kwesi. But how much?
Will Brzez try to stamp his GM worthiness on picks over making boring conventional but consensus draft picks?
So if KOC has final say … I could definitely see his hand trembling with the Sadiq card, ready to turn it in the micro-second he makes it past the 17th pick. Since day one with Mundt, then Hock, then Oliver … he seems to have an outsized TE fetish.
Depending on who’s on the board, I wouldn’t mind Sadiq but I’ll be pissed, per the article, if we move up one spot for him.
With all our needs this the perfect draft for letting prospects come to us … instead of increasing risk/burning choices by moving up for someone we fancy.
a small tradedown here and there … ok.
This is going to be super interesting to see how the KOC Brzez Flores triangle operates under pressure.
Cant wait.

I predict they draft Offense early and go Defense late just because of Flores ability to find his type later.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Phil Riewer

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

This is going to be super interesting to see how the KOC Brzez Flores triangle operates under pressure.

Might be analogous to Carter (KOC) and Moss (Flores) yelling at Culpepper (Brzez, who has the final say) "I'm open!"

For Phil, that is an analogy.

Brzez just has to invoke the elder Bush's comment: Stay the course, 1,000 points of light.

https://share.google/FVIQakE8Xx2H94og3

So now you point me out and are condescending after I proved you wrong with what they did with the A Jones signing....
Seems quite typical of your posts and semi if not full narcissistic.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Phil Riewer

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

ESPN

Minnesota Vikings
Picks: Nos. 18, 49, 82, 97, 163, 196, 234, 235, 244

It took a lot of roster-finagling for the Vikings to get to a cap-compliant position when this league year hit. As such, the Vikings have plenty of 2026 needs and plenty more soon-to-be big 2027 needs. That's a tough balancing act under regular conditions but remember the Vikings have an interim general manager right now. Head coach Kevin O'Connell has never been more powerful in the building. This draft might get weird.

First things first: The Vikings desperately need help on the defensive line. Both Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were released for cap relief, and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is reportedly on the trade market. I don't think the Vikings will grab either position at No. 18 -- the board isn't great for it -- but a trade down could return Missouri edge rusher Zion Young or Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. With nine picks in hand, I'd say with surety the Vikings make at least two picks along their defensive front.

If Minnesota stays at No. 18, a common mock draft pairing gives it Dillon Thieneman, the safety from Oregon, to fill the shoes of Harrison Smith. It's a deep safety class with a few Day 2 options that coordinator Brian Flores will love for their football IQ -- USC's Kamari Ramsey, TCU's Bud Clark -- so I wouldn't mind the team passing on the position in Round 1.

That clears the Vikings to go for "best player available" at No. 18, which feels great. A tackle to provide insurance for Christian Darrisaw's health and Brian O'Neill's contract would be an excellent pick. A corner to challenge Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre would help the defense take a step. At running back and tight end, Aaron Jones Sr. and T.

J. Hockenson both seem unlikely to return for 2027. At center, Blake Brandel is the starter in name only.

Not all of those positions will be optimal at 18, of course. But whenever a coach is in charge of a draft war room, my antennae perk up for aggressive, short-sighted trades that mortgage the future to fill the now. O'Connell's pride is wounded from the offense's failures last season, and I could see him tilting into an unnecessary Kenyon Sadiq trade-up accordingly.

The bottom line: Just take a lot of good players. You'll need them. (Don't trade up for a shiny offensive toy, Kevin O'Connell.)

I think that perspective is solid for an espn pundit.
I also worry about the draft room dynamic this offseason though somehow someway, I have more confidence in number cruncher Bzrez’s football knowledge over analytics loco Kwesi. But how much?
Will Brzez try to stamp his GM worthiness on picks over making boring conventional but consensus draft picks?
So if KOC has final say … I could definitely see his hand trembling with the Sadiq card, ready to turn it in the micro-second he makes it past the 17th pick. Since day one with Mundt, then Hock, then Oliver … he seems to have an outsized TE fetish.
Depending on who’s on the board, I wouldn’t mind Sadiq but I’ll be pissed, per the article, if we move up one spot for him.
With all our needs this the perfect draft for letting prospects come to us … instead of increasing risk/burning choices by moving up for someone we fancy.
a small tradedown here and there … ok.
This is going to be super interesting to see how the KOC Brzez Flores triangle operates under pressure.
Cant wait.

I predict they draft Offense early and go Defense late just because of Flores ability to find his type later.

Maybe I’m missing someone but, outside of round one, the only draft picks that have emerged into something are Nailor and Reichard. The rest are just bits and pieces … so far.

If what you mean is, Flores can do more with less … certainly. But just giving him the scrubs late in the draft will catch up, already has as teams have found ways to punch holes in his schemes late in the year. We need talent across the board.

We can only hope your prediction is lame.

quote:

ORIGINAL: Phil Riewer

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Phil Riewer

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

ESPN

Minnesota Vikings
Picks: Nos. 18, 49, 82, 97, 163, 196, 234, 235, 244

It took a lot of roster-finagling for the Vikings to get to a cap-compliant position when this league year hit. As such, the Vikings have plenty of 2026 needs and plenty more soon-to-be big 2027 needs. That's a tough balancing act under regular conditions but remember the Vikings have an interim general manager right now. Head coach Kevin O'Connell has never been more powerful in the building. This draft might get weird.

First things first: The Vikings desperately need help on the defensive line. Both Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were released for cap relief, and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is reportedly on the trade market. I don't think the Vikings will grab either position at No. 18 -- the board isn't great for it -- but a trade down could return Missouri edge rusher Zion Young or Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. With nine picks in hand, I'd say with surety the Vikings make at least two picks along their defensive front.

If Minnesota stays at No. 18, a common mock draft pairing gives it Dillon Thieneman, the safety from Oregon, to fill the shoes of Harrison Smith. It's a deep safety class with a few Day 2 options that coordinator Brian Flores will love for their football IQ -- USC's Kamari Ramsey, TCU's Bud Clark -- so I wouldn't mind the team passing on the position in Round 1.

That clears the Vikings to go for "best player available" at No. 18, which feels great. A tackle to provide insurance for Christian Darrisaw's health and Brian O'Neill's contract would be an excellent pick. A corner to challenge Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre would help the defense take a step. At running back and tight end, Aaron Jones Sr. and T.

J. Hockenson both seem unlikely to return for 2027. At center, Blake Brandel is the starter in name only.

Not all of those positions will be optimal at 18, of course. But whenever a coach is in charge of a draft war room, my antennae perk up for aggressive, short-sighted trades that mortgage the future to fill the now. O'Connell's pride is wounded from the offense's failures last season, and I could see him tilting into an unnecessary Kenyon Sadiq trade-up accordingly.

The bottom line: Just take a lot of good players. You'll need them. (Don't trade up for a shiny offensive toy, Kevin O'Connell.)

I think that perspective is solid for an espn pundit.
I also worry about the draft room dynamic this offseason though somehow someway, I have more confidence in number cruncher Bzrez’s football knowledge over analytics loco Kwesi. But how much?
Will Brzez try to stamp his GM worthiness on picks over making boring conventional but consensus draft picks?
So if KOC has final say … I could definitely see his hand trembling with the Sadiq card, ready to turn it in the micro-second he makes it past the 17th pick. Since day one with Mundt, then Hock, then Oliver … he seems to have an outsized TE fetish.
Depending on who’s on the board, I wouldn’t mind Sadiq but I’ll be pissed, per the article, if we move up one spot for him.
With all our needs this the perfect draft for letting prospects come to us … instead of increasing risk/burning choices by moving up for someone we fancy.
a small tradedown here and there … ok.
This is going to be super interesting to see how the KOC Brzez Flores triangle operates under pressure.
Cant wait.

I predict they draft Offense early and go Defense late just because of Flores ability to find his type later.

Maybe I’m missing someone but, outside of round one, the only draft picks that have emerged into something are Nailor and Reichard. The rest are just bits and pieces … so far.

If what you mean is, Flores can do more with less … certainly. But just giving him the scrubs late in the draft will catch up, already has as teams have found ways to punch holes in his schemes late in the year. We need talent across the board.

We can only hope your prediction is lame.

Redmond, Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, Richter, Drake Rodriguez, Taimani, Williams, Vaughn, McGlothern, Chambliss, and Batty are all on the roster, All drafted later or UDFA. All still on the roster.

quote:

ORIGINAL: TJSweens

quote:

ORIGINAL: Phil Riewer

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Phil Riewer

quote:

ORIGINAL: Tom Sykes

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bill Johanesen

ESPN

Minnesota Vikings
Picks: Nos. 18, 49, 82, 97, 163, 196, 234, 235, 244

It took a lot of roster-finagling for the Vikings to get to a cap-compliant position when this league year hit. As such, the Vikings have plenty of 2026 needs and plenty more soon-to-be big 2027 needs. That's a tough balancing act under regular conditions but remember the Vikings have an interim general manager right now. Head coach Kevin O'Connell has never been more powerful in the building. This draft might get weird.

First things first: The Vikings desperately need help on the defensive line. Both Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were released for cap relief, and edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is reportedly on the trade market. I don't think the Vikings will grab either position at No. 18 -- the board isn't great for it -- but a trade down could return Missouri edge rusher Zion Young or Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. With nine picks in hand, I'd say with surety the Vikings make at least two picks along their defensive front.

If Minnesota stays at No. 18, a common mock draft pairing gives it Dillon Thieneman, the safety from Oregon, to fill the shoes of Harrison Smith. It's a deep safety class with a few Day 2 options that coordinator Brian Flores will love for their football IQ -- USC's Kamari Ramsey, TCU's Bud Clark -- so I wouldn't mind the team passing on the position in Round 1.

That clears the Vikings to go for "best player available" at No. 18, which feels great. A tackle to provide insurance for Christian Darrisaw's health and Brian O'Neill's contract would be an excellent pick. A corner to challenge Isaiah Rodgers and James Pierre would help the defense take a step. At running back and tight end, Aaron Jones Sr. and T.

J. Hockenson both seem unlikely to return for 2027. At center, Blake Brandel is the starter in name only.

Not all of those positions will be optimal at 18, of course. But whenever a coach is in charge of a draft war room, my antennae perk up for aggressive, short-sighted trades that mortgage the future to fill the now. O'Connell's pride is wounded from the offense's failures last season, and I could see him tilting into an unnecessary Kenyon Sadiq trade-up accordingly.

The bottom line: Just take a lot of good players. You'll need them. (Don't trade up for a shiny offensive toy, Kevin O'Connell.)

I think that perspective is solid for an espn pundit.
I also worry about the draft room dynamic this offseason though somehow someway, I have more confidence in number cruncher Bzrez’s football knowledge over analytics loco Kwesi. But how much?
Will Brzez try to stamp his GM worthiness on picks over making boring conventional but consensus draft picks?
So if KOC has final say … I could definitely see his hand trembling with the Sadiq card, ready to turn it in the micro-second he makes it past the 17th pick. Since day one with Mundt, then Hock, then Oliver … he seems to have an outsized TE fetish.
Depending on who’s on the board, I wouldn’t mind Sadiq but I’ll be pissed, per the article, if we move up one spot for him.
With all our needs this the perfect draft for letting prospects come to us … instead of increasing risk/burning choices by moving up for someone we fancy.
a small tradedown here and there … ok.
This is going to be super interesting to see how the KOC Brzez Flores triangle operates under pressure.
Cant wait.

I predict they draft Offense early and go Defense late just because of Flores ability to find his type later.

Maybe I’m missing someone but, outside of round one, the only draft picks that have emerged into something are Nailor and Reichard. The rest are just bits and pieces … so far.

If what you mean is, Flores can do more with less … certainly. But just giving him the scrubs late in the draft will catch up, already has as teams have found ways to punch holes in his schemes late in the year. We need talent across the board.

We can only hope your prediction is lame.

Redmond, Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, Richter, Drake Rodriguez, Taimani, Williams, Vaughn, McGlothern, Chambliss, and Batty are all on the roster, All drafted later or UDFA. All still on the roster.

1. UDFA is not a draft choice.
2. There is a difference between roster filler and players who actually see the field.