2020 NFL Draft: Late-Round sleeper targets for the Minnesota Vikings

Defensive Line

The Minnesota Vikings will look to replace the departures of former starting defensive linemen Everson Griffen and Linval Joseph. With Ifeadi Odenigbo looking to take over Griffen’s spot, the Vikings have the luxury on waiting to days two or three to address their edge rush while prioritizing the best talent available on day one. The Vikings signed former Raven, Michael Pierce to a three-year, $27 million deal.

If the Vikings neglect to address the defensive line in the first or second rounds, James Lynch is an intriguing late-round prospect. Lynch was the star defensive end on a Baylor team that contended for a playoff spot and made a Sugar Bowl appearance. While he may not be an immediate impact player, the 2019 All-American has a great burst, high motor and accounted for an impressive 13.5 sacks and 3 forced fumbles his final year as a Bear.

Jonathan Garvin is another late-round defensive end that declared for the draft after his junior year. Garvin has the length to be a pro but had an inconsistent career at Miami and comes off a disappointing final season. Garvin will be a project, but if he can put on muscle and improve his initial burst, he has everything else to get on the field.

In terms of late-round defensive tackles, four-year starter Benito Jones out of Ole Miss is a talent that has the potential of growing into a future starter. While he didn’t meet expectations as one of the top defensive recruits in the 2016 class, his ability to hit gaps and create pressure makes him a rotational rookie worth taking a flier on for a team with seven day three selections.