Minnesota Vikings 7-Round 2022 Mock Draft: CB, EDGE Early

Round 2, 46th Overall: Drake Jackson, EDGE, USC

The Minnesota Vikings have addressed the edge position a little in free agency, bringing in former Packers edge rusher Za’Darius Smith in for a four-year deal. Smith will hopefully join Danielle Hunter, who has struggled with injuries, to form a duo on the outside.

However, with uncertainty still surrounding Hunter, it makes sense that the Vikings will look at a deep 2022 NFL Draft edge class and find someone within the first two days. Drake Jackson is an intriguing name in the second round. He’s just 21 years old and has the goods in a wicked first step, impressive speed, and the ability to win around the arc and flatten to the quarterback. He could add some weight and work to become a three-down defender, and can work to develop into a star as he works in the rotation in year one.

Round 3, 77th Overall: Cole Strange, OL, Chattanooga

While things are getting better along the offensive line (Christian Darrisaw and Brian O’Neill look like the bookends of the future) for the Minnesota Vikings, there’s still some work to do on the interior. There’s hope for Wyatt Davis, but getting depth is the right call.

Cole Strange really caught the attention of many down at the Senior Bowl as a player who plays extremely tough in a phone booth. He’s got the sand in his pants to anchor, stays active with his hands to reset when necessary, and has guard-center versatility. He’d be a welcome addition in Minnesota.