2020 NFL Draft: Grading all 15 Minnesota Vikings picks

With the 22nd pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings got things going with LSU wide receiver, Justin Jefferson. The Vikings immediately flipped the first-round pick received from Buffalo as part of the Stefon Diggs trade and brought in an instant replacement. While it is unclear if the Vikings were planning on taking a receiver in the first round, with one of the top-end talents in a loaded receiver class still on the board at 22, Spielman drafted the best player available.

Receiver was one of the Minnesota Vikings’ largest areas of need after losing their leader in receptions, yards, and touchdowns since entering the league in 2015. The Vikings and Eagles stood their ground not moving up for Oklahoma receiver, CeeDee Lamb and wasted no time taking Jefferson after the Eagles selected Jalen Reagor at 21.

Jefferson was a top-five talent in a very deep receiver group and will be an immediate impact player lining up opposite of Adam Thielen. Jefferson has played both outside and in the slot during his three years at LSU. Last year, Jefferson primarily lined up in the slot and saw his receptions and touchdowns more than double in a record-setting offense. Jefferson led college football with 111 receptions and ranked top five in yards and touchdowns.

While Jefferson cannot be expected to immediately match Diggs’ contribution to the offense, he will be expected to make an immediate impact. Jefferson is a great route runner and a solid run blocker. He is very effective on short-yardage and red zone plays and arguably the most clutch receiver in the 2020 NFL Draft class.

In games that mattered the most against Alabama, Georgia in the SEC Championship, and Oklahoma and Clemson in the playoffs, Jefferson averaged 9 receptions for 132 yards and a touchdown.

Grade: A