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Minnesota Vikings GM/HC Firings Could Mean A QB In 2022 NFL Draft

By Jacob Schyvinck

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - AUGUST 21: Head coach Mike Zimmer of the Minnesota Vikings, left, and general manager Rick Spielman talks before the start of a preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts at U.S. Bank Stadium on August 21, 2021 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - AUGUST 21: Head coach Mike Zimmer of the Minnesota Vikings, left, and general manager Rick Spielman talks before the start of a preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts at U.S. Bank Stadium on August 21, 2021 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) /
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The Minnesota Vikings let go of their head coach and general manager, and a full rebuild could mean a quarterback in the 2022 NFL Draft.

The Minnesota Vikings took part in “black Monday” in the NFL, firing head coach Mike Zimmer and GM Rick Spielman. This came after an 8-9 finish left them once again out of the playoffs. The duo has reached an NFC Championship game, but have sat in mediocrity for a number of seasons. Committing to Kirk Cousins at such a high cap number was an all-in move that needed good results, and ultimately, it didn’t happen.

Who was at fault? The best answer is everyone. The GM, HC, and quarterback all deserve parts of the blame pie. Spielman had some tough misses in the first round, Zimmer struggled in close games, and Cousins would fade in some key games down the stretch.

NFL Black Monday Claims Vikings HC/GM

Now, the Vikings sit with that high number for Cousins going forward, and it’s possible the new regime will want to move on. There could be a couple of suitors in a trade (the Cleveland Browns come to mind), which would make the decision easier. Still, if Cousins stays, that doesn’t mean that quarterback is out of the question in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Yes, Kellen Mond is in house, but the new HC/GM combo may not need to see what they have. Heck, Zimmer basically said he’s seen enough of Mond to know he wasn’t ready to start late in the year.

So, if the Vikings decide to look at quarterbacks in the 2022 NFL Draft, who could it be? If they like someone down at the Senior Bowl next month, moving up or being content where they are in the first round with someone like Kenny Pickett could be in the cards. Pickett made the leap in 2021, showing off the improved poise, accuracy, and playmaking ability outside of structure.

If they think about someone in the second round, Nevada’s Carson Strong could be in play. It’s hard to pinpoint Strong’s stock right now, just because there are unknowns and questions about his knee. Even if things clear, Strong’s lack of playmaking ability on the move could hurt his stock. If the Vikings continue to build their offensive line, Strong could thrive back there with great processing skills, pre-snap control, a strong arm, and good accuracy.

If the Minnesota Vikings wait a bit longer for a mid-round quarterback, Kaleb Eleby would be a fun option. He does so much well in terms of intangibles, and has great deep ball touch and accuracy outside the numbers.

With a new regime, expect the Minnesota Vikings to go quarterback in the 2022 NFL Draft in some capacity. Time will tell how early or late it happens.

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