2020 NFL Draft: Grading all 15 Minnesota Vikings picks

The Vikings went back to back with defensive linemen to begin their three-pick fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft. After the offseason departure of Stephen Weatherly, the Vikings looked to add more depth at the defensive tackle position, and selected James Lynch the all-time sack leader out of Baylor. As a two-year starter for former Baylor head coach Matt Rhule, Lynch earned All-Big 12 nominations his sophomore and junior seasons.

As a first-year starter, Lynch led the Bears with 8.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks before exploding into the college football ranks his junior year. Lynch finished his final season in Waco with 19.5 tackles for loss and 13.5 sacks earning his spot as a first-team All-American and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. Lynch was the star player on a surprising Baylor team which contented for a spot in the college football playoff 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 is a disruptive lineman. Lynch possesses quick reaction time at the snap and has the size to be an effective interior lineman. Lynch is quick to the backfield but will not be expected to replicate the success from his final year at Baylor to the NFL.

Lynch needs time to add to his pass rush moves outside of relying solely on strength and size but should break into the Vikings defensive line over time. Lynch appears to be very coachable and has improved at a steady pace year-over-year during his time playing for Matt Rhule. Lynch gives the Vikings options at tackle or end and should break into a transitioning defensive line. If the Vikings can build off of his success in college, they very may well have found a steal in the fourth round.

Grade: A