Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings came into the draft with several defensive needs and left the
weekend filling holes with good players. They also made some questionable moves.
There’s not much to dislike about linebacker Chad Greenway. He was one
of the savviest and most instinctive linebackers available in this draft and
should be effective as a rookie. Cedric Griffin has the physical talents
to play in the NFL but needs time to complete his game and must be used in a
simplified scheme. The next pair of players chosen are debatable. Ryan Cook
is a solid center with potential at right tackle. That being the case, he was a
reach in the first day. Ditto for Tarvaris Jackson, a gifted thrower who
made a late charge up draft boards. While there is not questioning Jackson’s
physical skills his overall accuracy and pass placement leave a lot to be
desired. Their final two picks could be steals if either player lives up to
their potential. Ray Edwards was a dominant defensive end during his
sophomore campaign before being benched last year. His upside is tremendous yet
his work ethic would be considered anything but. Greg Blue turned in
dissapointing workout numbers prior to the draft yet has the size and
aggressiveness to be used as a conventional strong safety.
In order to secure the services of Jackson the Vikings parted with a pair of
third round choices, a very steep price considering quarterbacks such as Brodie Croyle and Charlie Whitehurst were still available.
|
Rd |
Sel# |
Player |
Pos. |
School |
|
1 |
17 |
Chad Greenway |
OLB |
Iowa |
|
2 |
48 |
Cedric Griffin |
CB |
Texas |
|
2 |
51 |
Ryan Cook, |
C |
New Mexico |
|
2 |
64 |
Tarvaris Jackson |
QB |
Alabama St |
|
4 |
127 |
Ray Edwards |
DE |
Purdue |
|
5 |
149 |
Greg Blue |
S |
Georgia |