NFL mock draft, 3 rounds: QBs, trades, surprises in latest predictions
2021 NFL mock draft: 14th pick
Pick Analysis. OL. Alijah Vera-Tucker. player. 60. Scouting Report. USC. 14
Vikings GM/HC: Rick Spielman/Mike Zimmer
In this 2021 NFL mock draft scenario, I searched high and low for ways the Minnesota Vikings could trade down and make it make sense to do so.
On the one hand, the Vikings have clear needs right now on the offensive line, off the edge, and at safety. On the other hand, if they trade down, there could be a huge run on offensive linemen right behind them here.
Alijah Vera-Tucker could legitimately start for the Vikings in 2021 at left tackle or offensive guard, so I am not certain they could or would pass on him here.
While some team could try and move up for a Greg Newsome, I have the Vikings staying put here and addressing one of their top needs.
Vera-Tucker played both guard and tackle for the USC Trojans and many were surprised to see how well he played this past season taking over for Austin Jackson at the left tackle spot.
With Riley Reiff departed for the Bengals, this fit seems solid. The Vikings would probably love to move back and recoup the second-round pick they lost in the Yannick Ngakoue trade, but they have multiple third-round picks and can find good value off the edge and at safety there.