The Vikings entered Round 4 of the 2020 NFL Draft on Saturday with three picks: Nos. 117, 130 and 132.
Vikings Select South Carolina DE D.J. Wonnum with 117th Overall Pick | By Eric Smith
The Vikings selected edge rusher D.J. Wonnum in the fourth round (117th overall pick) in the 2020 NFL Draft on Saturday.
Wonnum, a senior out of South Carolina, measured in 6-foot-5 and 258 pounds.
"They must like guys who are about 6-foot-[5] and 258 pounds … they already have Danielle Hunter on the roster," ESPN analyst Louis Riddick said of the selection. "This is a guy who has 34 and 1/8-inch arms … who is a combination 3-4 outside linebacker and 4-3 defensive end.
"He plays with tremendous heavy hands in the run game, and in the pass game, he has tremendous cornering speed," Riddick continued. "He has the ability to get to that high-side pad, use his hands and then close on the quarterback and finish.
"This is a tremendous value pick, in my opinion, because of the versatility he gives them," Riddick added. "And again, he's a guy in the mold of Danielle Hunter, which is exactly what [Vikings Head Coach] Mike Zimmer wants up there on defense."
Hunter, who was 6-5 and 252 pounds out of LSU in 2015, is now a two-time Pro Bowler who has recorded back-to-back, 14.5 seasons.
Wonnum said he's followed Hunter's illustrious start to his NFL career, and is also excited to work with Vikings Co-Defensive Coordinator/defensive line coach Andre Patterson.
"[I'm] very familiar [with Hunter] … he's a dawg, man," Wonnum said. "Coach Patterson saw something in me with some of the things he saw in Danielle Hunter.
"I'm just excited to learn from one of the best pass rushers in the league," Wonnum added.
View images of Vikings fourth round draft pick South Carolina DE D.J. Wonnum .
Texas A&M wide receiver Christian Kirk (3) attempts to elude South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum (92) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016, in Columbia, S.C. Texas A&M defeated South Carolina 24-13. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
South Carolina defensive end D.J. Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
South Carolina defensive end D.J. Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
South Carolina defensive end D.J. Wonnum poses before running the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
South Carolina defensive end D.J. Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
South Carolina defensive end D.J. Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive end D.J. Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive end D.J. Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
South Carolina defensive lineman D J Wonnum runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
South Carolina defensive end D.J. Wonnum poses for a headshot during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
South Carolina linebacker D.J. Wonnum (8) sacks Kentucky quarterback Sawyer Smith (12) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Columbia, S.C. South Carolina defeated Kentucky 24-7. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
South Carolina linebacker D.J. Wonnum (8) sacks Kentucky quarterback Sawyer Smith (12) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Columbia, S.C. South Carolina defeated Kentucky 24-7. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
South Carolina defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw (3), Aaron Sterling (15) and D.J. Wonnum (8) share a laugh during warm-ups before an NCAA college football game against Kentucky Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Columbia, S.C. South Carolina defeated Kentucky 24-7. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
Clemson's Tavien Feaster (28) rushes for a touchdown while defended by South Carolina's R.J. , left, and D.J. Wonnum during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018, in Clemson, S.C. Clemson won 56-35. (AP Photo/Richard Shiro)
Clemson's Tee Higgins pulls in a pass while defended by South Carolina's D.J. Wonnum during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018, in Clemson, S.C. Clemson won 56-35. . (AP Photo/Richard Shiro)
Texas A&M running back Isaiah Spiller (28) runs for a gain as South Carolina linebacker D.J. Wonnum (8) defends during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, in College Station, Texas. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Clemson's Tee Higgins pulls in a pass while defended by South Carolina's D.J. Wonnum during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018, in Clemson, S.C. Clemson won 56-35. . (AP Photo/Richard Shiro)
NCAA college football defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum of South Carolina is interviewed during the Southeastern Conference Media Days at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, Thursday, July 19, 2018. (AP Photo/John Amis)
FILE - In this Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, file photo, Florida quarterback Feleipe Franks (13) attempts to elude South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum (8) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Columbia, S.C. The Southeastern Conference is filled with young quarterbacks this season, with many teams putting their offenses in the hands of freshmen or sophomores. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford, File)
NCAA college football defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum of South Carolina is interviewed during the Southeastern Conference Media Days at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, Thursday, July 19, 2018. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Michigan running back Chris Evans (12) gets tripped up by South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum (8) as defensive back Chris Lammons (3) closes in during the first half of the Outback Bowl NCAA college football game Monday, Jan. 1, 2018, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum (8) and Taylor Stallworth (90) react after a play during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Clemson on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017, in Columbia, S.C. Clemson defeated South Carolina 34-10. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum (8) pursues Florida quarterback Malik Zaire (8) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, in Columbia, S.C. South Carolina defeated Florida 28-20. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
Florida quarterback Feleipe Franks (13) runs with the ball between South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum (8) and Keir Thomas (5) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
Clemson quarterback Kelly Bryant (2) is tackled by South Carolina's Kobe Smith (97), D.J. Wonnum (8), and Skai Moore (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
FILE -- In this Oct. 14, 2017 file photo, Tennessee running back John Kelly (4) is hit by South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum (8) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Knoxville, Tenn. Kelly may be getting a little assistance as he returns from his one-game suspension. Ty Chandler and Carlin Fils-aime rushed for a combined 193 yards last week, providing hope they could diversify Tennessee's rushing attack and ease Kelly's workload when the Volunteers host Southern Mississippi. (AP Photo/Wade Payne, File)
Florida quarterback Feleipe Franks (13) attempts a pass under pressure from South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum (8) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, in Columbia, S.C. South Carolina defeated Florida 28-20. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
Tennessee running back John Kelly (4) runs for yardage as he's hit by South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum (8) in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017, in Knoxville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Wade Payne)
Tennessee running back John Kelly (4) runs for yardage as South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum (8) chases in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017, in Knoxville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Wade Payne)
Florida quarterback Feleipe Franks (13) attempts to elude South Carolina defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum (8) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, in Columbia, S.C. South Carolina defeated Florida 28-20. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
Florida quarterback Austin Appleby (12) is stopped for a 1-yard loss by South Carolina defensive lineman Kelsey Griffin, left, and defensive lineman D.J. Wonnum, right, during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 12, 2016, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
A team captain in 2019, Wonnum collected Second-Team All-SEC honors from the Associated Press after recording 37 tackles, including 9.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks.
Wonnum was also South Carolina's 2019 Comeback Player of the Year, as he was limited to just five games in 2018.
Wonnum appeared in 43 games with 30 starts in college, recording 137 career tackles with 14.0 sacks and 29.5 career tackles for loss.
The selection of Wonnum marked the first time in Vikings history that Minnesota selected at pick No. 117.
"I know the Vikings were really interested in me … me and Coach Patterson talked a lot at the combine," Wonnum said. "We kept in contact, and I'm just excited to be a Viking right now."
Vikings Select Baylor Defensive Lineman James Lynch with 130th Overall Pick | By Craig Peters
James Lynch may be closer to the south end of I-35, but his attention has often focused on Minnesota and the play by the Vikings defense.
Now, the defensive lineman out of Baylor will be able to join in on the fun, thanks to the Vikings drafting him with the 130th overall pick.
"I watched them play a lot this year," Lynch explained during a video conference on Saturday. "You see the way the d-line plays and the way their team plays and the way that their d-line has grown, you see a good defense, and they're salty."
Lynch, who measured 6-foot-4 and 289 pounds at the NFL Scouting Combine, met formally with the Vikings staff. It went well enough that Lynch circled Minnesota as a team he hoped to play for.
"I see a whole coaching staff and sometimes might feel intimidated, but with them, it was just comfortable," Lynch said. "They wanted to talk football, and it made it easy for me.
"I knew with Coach Zimmer and the way he was that I'd fit well," Lynch added. "I also watched Minnesota play as a kid, and I like the new stadium and facilities and stuff, so they have everything you could ever ask for. To be able to go there whenever I get the chance to is going to be an awesome feeling."
Hailing from Round Rock, Texas, just north of Austin, Lynch was named a First-Team All-American by the _Associated Press _and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year for his play in 2019. He led the Bears with 19.5 tackles for loss and 13.5 sacks, ranking in the top 10 nationally in both categories. He also broke up five passes, forced three fumbles and blocked two kicks as a junior, opting to declare for the 2020 NFL Draft with a year of eligibility remaining.
In 38 career games, Lynch totaled 101 tackles, 33.5 tackles for loss and 22 sacks, thriving on the interior of the defensive line for Matt Rhule at Baylor. Rhule is now head coach of the Carolina Panthers.
ESPN's Trey Wingo shared an anecdote during the broadcast of the recruitment of Lynch to Baylor.
"As soon as Matt Rhule got the job at Baylor, the first thing he did was drive down to Austin, about 90 minutes away, and said, 'We've got to get James Lynch.' "
Lynch said Rhule's approach sold him on attending Baylor.
"I think the biggest thing, my recruiting process was kind of weird," Lynch said. "I had to deal with a lot of people who didn't tell me the honest truth, and when I met Coach Rhule, he told me exactly what he wanted from me and what he wanted for him. Baylor is also an hour-and-a-half away, so my family could come see me play in college. That was kind of a no-brainer, and it was a good school as well, so there were a lot of positives."
View images of Vikings fourth round draft pick Baylor DT James Lynch.
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch (93) sacks West Virginia quarterback Will Grier (7) in the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017, in Waco, Texas. (AP Photo/Jerry Larson)
Texas Tech quarterback Jett Duffey (7) tries to outrun Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch (93) during the second half of a NCAA college football game in Waco, Tex.,Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019.(AP Photo/Jerry Larson)
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch runs a drill during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch runs a drill during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch runs a drill during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch poses for a headshot during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Baylor defensive lineman James Lynch runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch (93) looks on during the Big 12 Championship game against Oklahoma Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Arlington, Texas. Oklahoma won 30-23 in overtime. (AP Photo/Brandon Wade)
Oklahoma quarterback Jalen Hurts, left, rolls away from the pressure by Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch, right, during an NCAA college football game in Waco, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. Oklahoma won 34-31. (AP Photo/Ray Carlin)
Rice quarterback Wiley Green (5) pitches out to wide receiver Cameron Montgomery (8) as Baylor defensive tackles Bravvion Roy, left, and defensive tackle James Lynch close in during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)
TCU running back Kyle Hicks (21) looks for room against Baylor safety Davion Hall (12) and Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch (93) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Friday, Nov. 24, 2017, in Fort Worth, Texas. TCU won 45-22. (AP Photo/Brandon Wade)
Rice running back Charlie Booker, left, blocks Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch (93) as quarterback Tom Stewart (14) throws a pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)
Baylor defensive tackle James Lynch (93) runs onto the field with teammates before an NCAA college football game against Oklahoma in Waco, Texas, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
Count ESPN Senior NFL Draft Analyst Mel Kiper, Jr., as a fan of the Lynch pick.
"I tell you what, Rick Spielman is doing a good job with the Vikings of putting together a very solid draft," Kiper said after the selection. "James Lynch is one of those guys we talked about, Trey, who is a warrior. He's a football player. You don't have a 300-plus pounder here. I think you have a Dean Lowry type. Dean Lowry came out of Northwestern and has been solid with the Green Bay Packers. That's what I think James Lynch will be.
"You think about a guy with scheme versatility, had 19.5 tackles for loss, 13.5 of those were sacks," Kiper added. "[He] uses his hands extremely well, can win outside, inside, plays with really good power, never lacked for effort. You've got to like James Lynch. If you watched him at Baylor throughout his career, what a football player, a key guy in every game, got into that backfield and wreaked havoc against the run and got the sack numbers that you want as well. I've always been a big fan of James Lynch."
Vikings Select Oregon LB Troy Dye with 132nd Overall Pick | By Lindsey Young
The Vikings selected linebacker Troy Dye with the 132nd overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.Dye, a senior out of Oregon, measured 6-foot-3 and 231 pounds.
He started 13 games last season, recording 84 tackles with 9.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, two interceptions and two forced fumbles. Dye earned First-Team All-Pac 12 honors and participated in the 2019 Reese's Senior Bowl.
Dye is the only player in Oregon history to lead the team in tackles for four consecutive seasons. He finished third in program history in career tackles (397) and tied for fourth in tackles for loss (44.0).
He is looking forward to learning from Vikings linebackers Anthony Barr and Eric Kendricks, who has led Minnesota in tackles every season since being drafted in 2015.
"Now that I'm [Barr's] teammate, I'll get to pick his brain and really get to know what he does and how he does it," Dye said. "But the thing that stands out to me is he's a big, long, athletic guy that's able to cover space really well. He understands the game.
"He was a transition guy in college like I was, so just to be able to see some of the keys and tools that he helped with his transition [will be great]," Dye added.
Dye also is looking forward to reconnecting with his former roommate and Ducks teammate, Vikings receiver Dillon Mitchell, in Minnesota. The Vikings grabbed Mitchell in the seventh round last year.
"It's kind of crazy. Right after I got the call, he called me … and it was just a cool thing to be able to talk to him about," Dye said. "I remember we were talking about it yesterday that if I was on the board, it would be kind of a cool thing to go to Minnesota. To make it happen is pretty awesome."
Making the jump from college to the pros will always be an adjustment, but Dye already feels supported by Mitchell and by his football family.
View photos of Vikings new fourth round draft pick Oregon LB Troy Dye.
Oregon inside linebacker Troy Dye (35) warms up prior to the start of an NCAA college football game against Oregon State in Eugene, Ore., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. Oregon won 24-10. (AP Photo/Amanda Loman)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) dives and sacks Utah quarterback Troy Williams (3) in the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 19, 2016, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/George Frey)
Southern California wide receiver Deontay Burnett (80) makes a gain and is stopped short of the end zone by Oregon's Troy Dye in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Los Angeles on Saturday, Nov. 5, 2016. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye poses for a headshot during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye waits to run the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye waits to run the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Oregon defensive tackle Jordon Scott and linebacker Troy Dye celebrates with the trophy after their win against Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl NCAA college football game Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert, from left, defensive tackle Jordon Scott and linebacker Troy Dye celebrates with the trophy after their win against Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl NCAA college football game Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye celebrates after their win against Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl NCAA college football game Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye celebrates after their win against Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl NCAA college football game Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert, from left, defensive tackle Jordon Scott and linebacker Troy Dye celebrates with the trophy after their win against Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl NCAA college football game Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) celebrates with teammates Deommodore Lenoir (6) and Brady Breeze (25) after Dye intercepted a Utah pass during the second half of an NCAA college football game for the Pac-12 Conference championship in Santa Clara, Calif., Friday, Dec. 6, 2018. Oregon won 37-15. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye celebrates after their win against Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl NCAA college football game Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye celebrates after their win against Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl NCAA college football game Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert and linebacker Troy Dye celebrates with the trophy after their win against Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl NCAA college football game Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye holds the trophy as quarterback Justin Herbert, left, and safety Brady Breeze look on after their win against Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl NCAA college football game Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Oregon inside linebacker Troy Dye (35) poses for photos following an NCAA college football game against Oregon State in Eugene, Ore., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. Oregon won 24-10. (AP Photo/Amanda Loman)
Oregon inside linebacker Troy Dye (35) hugs Oregon head coach Mario Cristobal during a recognition ceremony for senior players prior to the start of an NCAA college football game against Oregon State in Eugene, Ore., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. Oregon won 24-10. (AP Photo/Amanda Loman)
FILE - In this Dec. 6, 2018, file photo, Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) celebrates with teammate Deommodore Lenoir (6) after Dye intercepted a Utah pass during the second half of an NCAA college football game for the Pac-12 Conference championship, in Santa Clara, Calif. Dye was selected to The Associated Press All-Pac 12 Conference team, Thursday, Dec. 12, 2019. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar, File)
Oregon inside linebacker Troy Dye (35) celebrates following an NCAA college football game against Oregon State in Eugene, Ore., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. Oregon won 24-10. (AP Photo/Amanda Loman)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye answers questions during the Pac-12 Conference NCAA college football Media Day Wednesday, July 24, 2019, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Oregon's Troy Dye dances on the field between the third and fourth quarters of the NCAA college football game against Nevada Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)
Oregon's Troy Dye celebrates the Ducks' win over California at the end of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct.. 5, 2019, in Eugene, Ore. Oregon defeated California 17-7. (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)
Arizona quarterback Khalil Tate, left, looks for a receiver as Oregon's Troy Dye closes in during the fourth quarter of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)
FILE - In this July 24, 2019, file photo, Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert answers questions during the Pac-12 Conference NCAA college football Media Day in Los Angeles. With the return of senior leaders Justin Herbert and Troy Dye, expectations are high for the Oregon Ducks this season. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) against Stanford during the first half of an NCAA college football game on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Stanford, Calif. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) against Stanford during the first half of an NCAA college football game on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Stanford, Calif. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye answers questions during the Pac-12 Conference NCAA college football Media Day Wednesday, July 24, 2019, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) against Stanford during the first half of an NCAA college football game on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Stanford, Calif. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
FILE - In this Oct. 27, 2018, file photo, is Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) during an NCAA college football game against Arizona in Tucson, Ariz. With the return of senior leaders Justin Herbert and Troy Dye, expectations are high for the Oregon Ducks this season. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri, File)
Oregon defensive players La'Mar Winston Jr., left, (no. 32) and Troy Dye, right, celebrate a first quarter stop against Montana during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)
Oregon's Troy Dye dances to the song "Shout" at Autzen Stadium during the break between the third and fourth quarters of an NCAA college football game against Nevada, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)
Oregon head coach Willie Taggart and linebacker Troy Dye embrace after hanging on to defeat Nebraska 42-35 in an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) during an NCAA college football game against Arizona, Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) runs for a touchdown against Boise State during the first half of the Las Vegas Bowl NCAA college football game Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)
UCLA quarterback Josh Rosen, right, is sacked by Oregon linebacker Troy Dye during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against Boise State during the first half of the Las Vegas Bowl NCAA college football game Saturday, Dec. 16, 2017, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)
Oregon safety Jevon Holland (8), celebrates his touchdown with linebacker Troy Dye (35) during an NCAA college football game against UCLA in Eugene, Ore., Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018 (AP Photo/Thomas Boyd)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) during an NCAA college football game against Arizona, Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) during an NCAA college football game against Arizona, Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Stanford quarterback K.J. Costello, center, is cornered for a loss by Oregon's Troy Dye, left, and Kaulana Apelu, right, during the first quarter of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)
FILE - In this Sept. 23, 2017, file photo, Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) waits for a play to start in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, in Tempe, Ariz. Dye, a second-team preseason All-American, and the Ducks have not been tested yet this season, but he made 107 tackles last year and will need a big game in Eugene on Saturday for the Ducks to make a statement in the Pac-12. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri, File)
Stanford's Bryce Love, right, breaks a tackle of Oregon's Troy Dye during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017, in Stanford, Calif. (AP Photo/D. Ross Cameron)
Wyoming running back Milo Hall (3) is tackled by Oregon inside linebacker Troy Dye (35)during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Laramie, Wyo., Saturday, Sept.16, 2017. (AP Photo/Shannon Broderick)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye sits in the bench area after Arizona State defeated Oregon 37-35 during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
FILE - In this Sept. 9, 2017, file photo, Oregon head coach Willie Taggart and linebacker Troy Dye, rear, embrace after defeating Nebraska, 42-35, in an NCAA college football game, in Eugene, Ore. Dye was selected to the AP All-Conference Pac-12 team announced Thursday, Dec. 7, 2017. (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch, File)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Oregon's Troy Dye and Jonah Moi tackle Arizona running back Nick Wilson during the second quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)
Oregon's Oregon cornerback Ugochukwu Amadi, left, works to pull down Utah running back Zach Moss with Oregon linebacker Troy Dye and cornerback Thomas Graham Jr. in pursuit during the third quarter of their NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona State running back Demario Richard (4) scores a touchdown over Oregon linebacker Troy Dye during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye speaks at the Pac-12 NCAA college football media day, Thursday, July 27, 2017, in the Hollywood section of Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye speaks at the Pac-12 NCAA college football media day, Thursday, July 27, 2017, in the Hollywood section of Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35), celebrates an interception that set up a last minute second quarter touchdown against Arizona State in an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016 in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Thomas Boyd)
Colorado running back Phillip Lindsay (23), blows past Oregon linebacker Troy Dye (35), in an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016 in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Thomas Boyd)
Southern California tight end Taylor McNamara (48) falls into the end zone for a touchdown against Troy Dye of Oregon in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Los Angeles Saturday, Nov. 5, 2016. USC won, 45-20. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)
Oregon head coach Willie Taggart and linebacker Troy Dye embrace after hanging on to defeat Nebraska 42-35 in an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Chris Pietsch)
Oregon linebacker Troy Dye speaks at the Pac-12 NCAA college football media day, Thursday, July 27, 2017, in the Hollywood section of Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Troy's father, Mark, played football at San Jose State; his brothers, Tony (DB), Jordan (WR) and Travis (RB), played at UCLA, Sterling College and Oregon, respectively. Tony spent the 2012-13 seasons with the Bengals and was on the Raiders practice squad in 2014.
"I have a lot of people in my corner who have been down that road and who have done a lot of things that I aspire to do," Dye said. "I think just having those people to rely on and communicate with, call out to whenever I need help or have questions about stuff, I have a good support system. I think that's the biggest part that will help me with my transition to the next level."
The selection of Dye marked the second time in franchise history the Vikings have selected from the 132nd spot in an NFL Draft. Minnesota tabbed guard Edward Ta'amu in 2002, but he never played a game for the Vikings.
ESPN's Mel Kiper, Jr., described Dye's playing style as alert and active during the ESPN/NFL Network broadcast.
"Very athletic, lateral pursuit is excellent, and where he's gonna be key in the NFL in this Vikings defense is the way he can handle coverage responsibilities," Kiper added. "He's a very alert, very active football player."
