Vikings Land Talented Player: Mel Kiper Jr.’s Latest NFL Mock Draft Reveals Surprise Pick to Boost J.J. McCarthy’s Game
The Minnesota Vikings have caught everyone’s attention with their strategic moves in the latest NFL mock draft by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. According to Kiper’s projections, the Vikings are expected to make a bold move, trading up to the 5th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft to select Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy.¹
*The Trade*
Kiper’s mock draft suggests the Vikings will send their 11th and 23rd overall picks, along with a 2025 first-rounder, to the Chargers to move up to the 5th spot. This move would be a significant investment in McCarthy, who Kiper believes has the potential to be a top-five quarterback in the draft.
*Why McCarthy?*
Kiper highlights McCarthy’s intriguing physical traits and impressive precision passing skills, which he showcased in 2023. With a strong supporting cast, including Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson, McCarthy would have the playmakers around him to succeed as a rookie. Kiper notes that McCarthy’s ability to make every throw and his competitiveness make him an attractive pick.²
*Additional Picks*
In Kiper’s mock draft, the Vikings also select Cooper DeJean, a versatile cornerback from Iowa, with the 23rd overall pick. DeJean’s ability to play in any defensive structure and his ball-hawking skills make him an appealing choice for the Vikings, who need to bolster their secondary.
*Division Rivals*
Kiper’s mock draft also reveals interesting picks for the Vikings’ division rivals:
– *Chicago Bears*: Caleb Williams, USC quarterback, with the 1st overall pick, and Rome Odunze, Washington receiver, with the 9th overall pick.
– *Green Bay Packers*: Amarius Mims, Georgia tackle, with the 26th overall pick.
– *Detroit Lions*: Adonai Mitchell, Texas receiver, with the 29th overall pick.
*Vikings’ Young Core*
The Vikings’ young core, including Justin Jefferson, Christian Darrisaw, and Camryn Bynum, is expected to play a significant role in the team’s success. With a strong quarterback at the helm, the Vikings could become a formidable force in the NFC North.
