EAGAN, Minn. — The Mock Draft Tracker marathon finish line has arrived and just in time for the 2024 NFL Draft, which opens Thursday.
The Minnesota Vikings hold the 11th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and have eight additional picks, including the 23rd selection that was acquired in a trade with Houston on March 15.
The Vikings have picked inside the top 12 just 23 times in franchise history. Twice those selections netted a quarterback: Christian Ponder (2011 No. 12 pick) and Daunte Culpepper (1999 No. 11 pick).
Other notable top 12 selections include Adrian Peterson (2007 No. 7 pick), Bryant McKinnie (2002 No. 7 pick), Kevin Williams (2003 No. 9 pick) and Anthony Barr (2014 No. 9 pick). Three players selected in the top 12 — Carl Eller (1964 No. 6 pick), Ron Yary (1968 No. 1 pick), and Chris Doleman (1985 No. 4 pick) — made it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
The 2024 NFL Draft will be held from April 25-27. The first round begins on April 25. Rounds 2 and 3 follow on April 26, and the final four rounds will occur April 27.
Here is the seventh version of our Vikings 2024 Mock Draft Tracker, which includes 37 recent predictions from across football media (Version 1.0 and Version 2.0 and Version 3.0 and Version 4.0 and Version 5.0 and Version 6.0).
A quarterback was involved in all 37 mock drafts reviewed.
External experts in 21 of the 37 mock drafts project the Vikings will trade up for Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy (24 mocks projected him to Minnesota; 13 forecasted trades in order to make him a Viking), North Carolina QB Drake Maye (6 mocks — each forecasting a trade-up scenario) or LSU QB Jayden Daniels (2 mocks — both forecasting a trade-up situation).
Oregon QB Bo Nix (2 mocks) and Washington QB Michael Penix, Jr., (1 mock) were projected to Minnesota when the Vikings stayed at 11.
Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold was the only non-QB that experts projected to Minnesota with the team's highest pick. Nix was then projected to the Vikings with a second selection in the first round in both of those mocks.
Other mocks that had the Vikings staying put involved Minnesota adding to its defense, usually on the interior of the defensive line or with an edge defender.
Here's a look at our seventh Vikings 2024 Mock Draft Tracker:
ESPN's Jordan Reid (seven rounds)
April 22, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 8: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
Projected trade: Vikings send Nos. 11 and 108 and 129 to the Falcons to move up to No. 8.
McCarthy is a great fit with the Vikings considering his skill set — he's accurate and mobile — and the infrastructure in place in Minnesota. The Vikings have Sam Darnold, so there's no pressure to start a rookie QB in Week 1. McCarthy's 88.2 QBR was third in the nation last season, and he has a ton of upside — he just might need some time to adjust to the pro game.
The predicted pick at No. 27 (after sending No. 23 to Cardinals for this pick and No. 90): Jer'Zhan ("Johnny") Newton, Defensive Tackle, Illinois
Minnesota doesn't have a true penetrator in the middle of its defense, but that's exactly what Newton can be for this team. He was an unblockable force at Illinois, posting 7.5 sacks last season. Few defensive linemen in this class have his level of versatility, and his endurance is super impressive — his 715 snaps were seventh most among all FBS defensive linemen last season.
The predicted pick at No. 90 (after getting in trade with Cardinals): Brandon Coleman, Guard, TCU
Right now, Blake Brandel is projected as the Vikings starter at left guard. Coleman (34 career starts) is a powerful blocker who would at the very least provide competition.
The predicted pick at No. 157: Jarrian Jones, Cornerback, Florida State
The predicted pick at No. 167: Jacob Cowing, Receiver, Arizona
The predicted pick at No. 177: Xavier Thomas, Edge Defender, Clemson
The predicted pick at No. 230: Bub Means, Receiver, Pittsburgh
The predicted pick at No. 232: Charles Turner III, Center, LSU
Click here for Reid's full mock draft.
ESPN's Mel Kiper, Jr., and Field Yates (three rounds)
April 15, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 5: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
Projected trade: Vikings send Nos. 11 and 23 and a 2025 first-round pick to the Chargers to move up to No. 5.
Did you expect a different quarterback here? Giving up that 2025 pick is going to hurt for Minnesota, but it would be worth it if the organization feels McCarthy can be the guy. There's some risk involved — McCarthy was never asked to carry the load with his arm in college — but his physical tools are appealing.
Click here for the full mock draft by Kiper and Yates.
The Athletic's Alec Lewis (seven rounds)
April 22, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 3: Drake Maye, Quarterback, North Carolina
Projected trade: Vikings send Nos. 11 and 23 and a 2025 first-round pick to the Patriots to move up to No. 3 and receive a 2024 sixth-rounder and a 2025 fifth-rounder.
Moving up to select Maye at No. 3 is dependent on multiple factors. First, the Commanders would have to prefer LSU's Jayden Daniels or Michigan's J.J. McCarthy at No. 2. Second, the Patriots would have to value the pick allotment more than any available player. And third, the Vikings offer would have to trump that of the Denver Broncos or Las Vegas Raiders.
None of these is a given, which is why predicting this is so difficult. Washington could take Maye. The Patriots could prefer Maye to a package of picks. And a team like the Broncos could swing massively with a package that could even include star cornerback Patrick Surtain.
If the Commanders take Maye at No. 2, the Patriots could stick and pick Daniels at No. 3. That would likely leave the Vikings and Broncos in a standoff for McCarthy. Miss there and the Vikings would look at a defensive player at No. 11 and potentially a quarterback like Michael Penix, Jr., at No. 23. These are all possibilities. But the one that makes the biggest statement is aggressively moving up the board for Maye, who understands the advantages of Minnesota's infrastructure.
The predicted pick at No. 108: Cedric Gray, Linebacker, North Carolina
Waiting to pick again until the fourth round felt miserable, but the run on defenders begins here. This is not a deep off-ball linebacker class, but Gray is one of the better options. He was a multiyear captain at UNC, where linebackers coach Tommy Thigpen called him "an alpha male who loves football. Crazy aggressive with a huge football I.Q." You can easily envision Maye and Gray assimilating into the Vikings environment together the way Jordan Addison and Mekhi Blackmon (USC) did last year.
The predicted pick at No. 150 (after sending No. 129 to Saints for this and No. 168): Justin Eboigbe, Defensive Tackle, Alabama
What are the odds the No. 129 pick becomes a difference-maker? Historical probabilities would suggest the odds are quite low. So, why not allow an overconfident team like the Saints to move up to No. 129 and get another dart to throw at the board?
Eboigbe's medical evaluation might get in the way. He suffered a herniated disc in October 2022, and the injury pushed into his spinal cord. He underwent surgery, wore a neck brace followed by a bone stem device, returned in 2023 and produced in Nick Saban's final season in Tuscaloosa. He's a big guy who moves like a little guy, and he is versatile. Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores values those characteristics.
The predicted pick at No. 167: Qwan'tez Stiggers, Cornerback, Canadian Football League
I've mocked Stiggers to the Vikings in recent months. The Athletic's Dane Brugler did, too. It seems too obvious. The Vikings need cornerbacks. Stiggers is aggressive, athletic and driven. He lost his father in a tragic car accident and is motivated to support his family. Add in his youth and the feeling he can be further developed, and this selection is a no-brainer.
The predicted pick at No. 168 (after sending No. 129 to Saints for this and No. 150): Khyree Jackson, Cornerback, Oregon
He is tall, quick and aggressive and can play press-man coverage on the outside. Sound like a Flores cornerback? You bet. Jackson's play improved mightily in 2023 for Oregon. At worst, the 6-foot-3, 194-pounder could become a special teams demon.
The predicted pick at No. 171 (after sending No. 157 to Eagles for this and No. 210): Beaux Limmer, Offensive Line, Arkansas
Reaching [Eagles General Manager] Howie Roseman over the phone should not be too difficult for Adofo-Mensah. They've conversed often, even spending almost a half-hour walking around Lincoln Financial Field before a game last season. Here, the Vikings exchange one pick for two and use the first on a dependable offensive lineman who played all three interior spots in the SEC. The Vikings only interior offensive lineman on a rookie contract is Ed Ingram. Throwing numbers at this spot is necessary.
The predicted pick at No. 177: Javon Solomon, Edge Defender, Troy
Last week, The Athletic's college football staff discussed some prospects they think are being overlooked. Bruce Feldman chose Solomon and said, "Solomon led the nation in sacks with 16 and had 18 tackles for loss with three forced fumbles. He did so playing a lot in 2023 as a 4i, which his coaches knew probably wasn't his ideal spot but that he had the smarts and the flexibility to make it work when his team needed it." Solomon's size isn't prototypical. He didn't run an elite 40-yard dash at the combine. But he can produce, and shouldn't that be enough?
The predicted pick at No. 180 (from Patriots): Nick Gargiulo, Guard, South Carolina
Double dipping on interior offensive linemen might not be sexy, but it's smart. Gargiulo began his career at Yale. His production wavered in one year at the FBS level. Yet he has the athleticism, size (6-5, 318 pounds) and zone-scheme experience to join an offensive line led by Chris Kuper that aims to pride itself on development.
The predicted pick at No. 210 (from Eagles): Cody Schrader, Running Back, Missouri
Going after a running back makes sense. The Vikings feel strongly about the Aaron Jones and Ty Chandler tandem. Jones' injury history might require some insurance, and though Chandler could assume the role, Minnesota could also benefit from an experienced, downhill option made up of the values Head Coach Kevin O'Connell seeks. Schrader, who became one of the nation's premier running backs last year, transferred from Division II Truman State and rammed his way into prominence.
The predicted pick at No. 230: Tyrice Knight, Linebacker, Texas-El Paso
If you liked Ivan Pace, Jr., as an undrafted signing, you'll like this pick. Knight led the FBS in solo tackles in 2023 (84). He does not have great size or speed, but he can range across the field and contribute. Bet on production this late in the draft.
The predicted pick at No. 232: Isaiah Williams, Receiver, Illinois
Williams is a former dual-threat quarterback who glides through routes. His 5-9, 179-pound frame might limit his ceiling, but size did not matter in the Vikings evaluation of Jordan Addison.
Click here for Lewis' full mock draft.
The Athletic's Austin Mock
April 19, 2024
Note: This used Mock's NFL Projection Model "to make selections based on premier positions and positional needs."
The predicted pick at No. 8 (from Atlanta for this pick and No. 23): J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
If I thought [Jayden] Daniels was going to fall, of course the same is happening with McCarthy. I attempted to trade some draft capital for Washington's pick but was denied. From there, I wasn't going to give up too much to get a quarterback prospect with a wide range of possible outcomes and one who ranks No. 21 on the consensus big board. McCarthy has some exciting traits, but there is limited tape to make a solid projection. I do think he fits well in Coach Kevin O'Connell's offense.
Click here for Mock's full mock draft.
The Athletic's Dane Brugler (seven rounds)
April 17, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 4 (from Arizona for this pick, No. 23 and a 2025 first-round selection): J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
It is no secret that the Vikings are quarterback shopping in the NFL Draft, but how high can they trade up to secure their guy? In this scenario, Minnesota jumps to No. 4 for McCarthy, which would mark the first time in NFL Draft history we see quarterbacks drafted 1-2-3-4 overall.
The predicted pick at No. 108: DeWayne Carter, Defensive Tackle, Duke
The predicted pick at No. 129: Mason McCormick, Guard, South Dakota State
The predicted pick at No. 157: Quan'tez Siggers, Cornerback, CFL
The first non-combine prospect drafted here is Stiggers, a CFL product who has had a Hollywood-worthy journey to this point. But he is more than a feel-good story — Stiggers has the talent to work his way up an NFL depth chart.
The predicted pick at No. 167: Eric Watts, Edge Defender, Connecticut
The predicted pick at No. 177: Ainias Smith, Receiver, Texas A&M
The predicted pick at No. 230: Tyrice Knight, Linebacker, Texas-El Paso
The predicted pick at No. 232: Dylan McMahon, Center, N.C. State
Click here for Brugler's full mock draft.
Vinnie Iyer, The Sporting News (seven rounds)
April 23, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 11: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
The Vikings will do their best to move up, as they now have two first-rounders in play, but McCarthy's live arm and gritty athletic playmaking should appeal to them here should he fall past the non-QB needy teams.
The predicted pick at No. 23: Jer'Zhan ("Johnny") Newton, Defensive Tackle, Illinois
The Vikings will be focused on their QB first, and with no pressing offensive concerns, they can continue to revamp their defense for DC Brian Flores after landing Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Blake Cashman in free agency. Newton can give them additional pass-rush pop up front.
The predicted pick at No. 108: Tommy Eichenberg, Linebacker, Ohio State
The predicted pick at No. 129: Renardo Green, Cornerback, Florida State
The predicted pick at No. 157: Bub Means, Receiver, Pittsburgh
The predicted pick at No. 167: Tyler Davis, Defensive Tackle, Clemson
The predicted pick at No. 177: Cedric Johnson, Edge Defender, Mississippi
The predicted pick at No. 230: Cody Schrader, Running Back, Missouri
The predicted pick at No. 232: Zakhari Franklin, Receiver, Mississippi
Click here for Iyer's full mock draft.
Jacob Camenker, The Sporting News (seven rounds)
April 22, 2024
Note: This mock draft included three options.
The predicted pick at No. 11…
Will pick: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
Could pick: Michael Penix Jr., Quarterback, Washington
Dark horse: Bo Nix, Quarterback, Oregon
McCarthy finally comes off the board, and Minnesota is a great landing spot for him. Kevin O'Connell has developed quarterbacks well during his time in the NFL and will get to pair McCarthy with Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson and Aaron Jones as the Michigan product gets used to being more of a focal point in the offense.
The Vikings may ultimately need to trade up to get McCarthy, but this probably represents his floor. Should McCarthy be off the board, O'Connell might be interested in taking Penix, who seems to be the consensus No. 5 quarterback after his stellar season at Washington. He performed well with a strong receiving corps, so it wouldn't be surprising to see him find similar success in Minnesota.
Nix could also be an option, but questions exist about his overall ceiling. O'Connell would probably prefer McCarthy and Penix given their respective upsides.
The predicted pick at No. 23…
Will pick: Graham Barton, Offensive Line, Duke
Could pick: Jackson Powers-Johnson, Guard/Center, Oregon
Dark horse: Chop Robinson, Edge Defender, Penn State
The Vikings traded guard Ezra Cleveland to the Jaguars last season after veteran Dalton Risner played well in place of Cleveland while he was injured. Risner is now gone, so the Vikings have a glaring hole at left guard.
Barton (6-5, 313 pounds) can be a plug-and-play starter at left guard and can play all other positions on the offensive line, as well. The Vikings are set at tackle, but they could consider using him at center if they want to either move on from Garret Bradbury or move him to guard.
Powers-Johnson is the other top center on the board the Vikings could consider here. They could also think about adding a young, explosive pass rusher like Robinson if they want a dynamic playmaker, but the team's top priority should be to protect [its] new investment at quarterback, be it McCarthy or someone else.
Click here for Camenker's full mock draft.
Pete Prisco, CBS Sports
April 23, 2024
Note: Prisco categorizes his mock as "who-they-should-take."
The predicted pick at No. 11: Michael Penix Jr., Quarterback, Washington
The Vikings have to take a quarterback, and rather than trading up, they sit here and take Penix. Why Penix over J.J. McCarthy? I think he will be a better player.
The predicted pick at No. 23: Nate Wiggins, Cornerback, Clemson
They need to get a quality cover corner on the outside in Brian Flores' defense. Wiggins is as good as any in this draft in press man, but he has to improve his tackling.
Click here for Prisco's full mock draft.
John Breech, CBS Sports
April 23, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 5 (after a trade with Chargers that also involves No. 23): J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
The Vikings are desperate for a quarterback and after failing to make a trade with either the Patriots or Cardinals, they finally find a willing partner in the Chargers. To make the deal happen, the Vikings send the 11th overall pick and the 23rd overall pick to Los Angeles.
Click here for Breech's full mock draft.
Ryan Wilson, CBS Sports
April 22, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 5 (after a trade with Chargers that also involves No. 23): J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
The Chargers have to decide between Marvin Harrison, Jr., here or trading down, stockpiling a ton of picks and rebuilding the roster. They chose the latter, allowing the Vikings to sell the farm for J.J. McCarthy.
J.J. McCarthy is an incredibly efficient passer who operated in a predominantly run-heavy offense. He is slight of frame but has the mobility and accuracy to make plays out of structure. McCarthy does not have the strongest arm but throws with touch to all three levels. He is a tough player who has consistently won at every level of his career.
Click here for Wilson's full mock draft.
Chris Trapasso, CBS Sports
April 11, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 5 (after a trade with Chargers that also involves No. 23): Drake Maye, Quarterback, North Carolina
Home-run scenario for the Vikings, who see Maye fall all the way to No. 5 — instead of having to get to No. 3 or No. 4 to draft him. The Chargers know they can get a premier offensive tackle at No. 11.
Drake Maye is a tall pocket passer with some athletic juice. He has a live arm with a compact release. He drives the football with ease and throws a gorgeous spiral with high regularity. His accuracy to all levels is very good, but there are a few seemingly uncharacteristic misses deep. His misses are typically low/behind. He was utilized in the designed run game in college, but it will be somewhat of a stretch to see him succeed doing that in the NFL. Has a flair for making plays on the run and can be a useful, [Patrick] Mahomes-like scrambler. The natural playmaker gene is there, as he rarely gives up on a play. He wants to rip the vertical shot down the seam/numbers. He truly can make every throw, and his arm talent borders on elite. His high-arcing touch is good, not amazing. He can make impressive throws with defenders draped on him. His pocket presence is solid, but sometimes awkward when navigating. He has lots of experience reading the entire field. Overall, he has a great blend of pocket passing, arm talent, accuracy, and athleticism. He's a very impressive QB prospect for the modern-day NFL.
Click here for Trapasso's full mock draft.
Note: He also published a seven-round mock draft on April 11 that included the following Vikings selections after Maye.
The predicted pick at No. 108: Cole Bishop, Safety, Utah
The predicted pick at No. 129: Khristian Boyd, Defensive Tackle, Northern Iowa
The predicted pick at No. 157: Eric Watts, Edge Defender, Connecticut
The predicted pick at No. 167: Christian Jones, Tackle, Texas
The predicted pick at No. 177: Tarheeb Still, Cornerback, Maryland
The predicted pick at No. 230: Nelson Ceaser, Edge Defender, Houston
The predicted pick at No. 232: Jase McClellan, Running Back, Alabama
Click here for Trapasso's full seven-round mock draft.
Josh Edwards, CBS Sports
April 22, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 5 (after a trade with Chargers that also involves No. 23): J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
Minnesota makes a move up the board to add their quarterback of the future. J.J. McCarthy is an accurate passer who will play on time just as Kevin O'Connell desires.
Click here for Edwards' full mock draft.
Tom Fornelli, CBS Sports
April 22, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 11: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
The Vikings have two first-round picks and didn't have to package them together to move up to get the QB they want. Can you imagine? Opinions on McCarthy vary, but what he's shown an ability to do well lines up with what Kevin O'Connell and the Vikings ask their QB to do. The reason you keep seeing the Vikings connected to McCarthy is because it just makes sense.
The predicted pick at No. 23: Chop Robinson, Edge, Penn State
The Vikings have added a couple of edge rushers in free agency after losing Danielle Hunter, but you can never have enough. Chop Robinson could be the best pure pass-rusher of the class, and while he's not as well-rounded as others, Minnesota wouldn't need him to be a three-down player right away.
Click here for Fornelli's full mock draft.
Kyle Stackpole, CBS Sports
April 22, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 5 (after a trade with Chargers that also involves No. 23): J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
"There are multiple [quarterbacks] that we are in love with just on an outright basis," Vikings GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah said recently. Based on everything that has transpired during the pre-draft process, I have to believe J.J. McCarthy is one of them.
Click here for Stackpole's full mock draft.
Eric Galko, CBS Sports
April 22, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 3 (after a trade with Patriots that involves Nos. 23 and 108 and a 2025 first-round selection): Drake Maye, Quarterback, North Carolina
Drake Maye is an incredible prospect, and he has all the makings of franchise quarterback if he lands in a situation that sets him up for success. Minnesota, with bookended tackles and two outstanding receivers, can allow Maye to thrive behind Sam Darnold. The Vikings trade picks Nos. 11, 23 and 108, along with their 2025 first-rounder, to move up eight spots to select the former North Carolina star.
Click here for Galko's full mock draft.
Will Brinson, CBS Sports
April 17, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 5 (after a trade with Chargers that also involves No. 23): Jayden Daniels, Quarterback, LSU
The Chargers are the easiest trade-out team on the board and might even move out of No. 5 for the Vikings two first-round picks.
Click here for Brinson's full mock draft.
Conor Orr, Sports Illustrated
April 23, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 3 (after a trade with the Patriots): Drake Maye, Quarterback, North Carolina
As I've written, this is the only option for the Vikings. One rival source I recently spoke with said they would be stunned at this point if the Vikings didn't plow their way into the top three and treated it like an inevitability. Minnesota cannot come out of the draft with the fourth-best passer and attempt to pass off to us the idea that he was really their favorite all along. Maye checks a lot of boxes and could be the solution for a decade in the Twin Cities.
Click here for Orr's full mock draft.
Jeff Risdon, Draft Wire
April 20, 2024
Note: Risdon said his mock is based off "some conglomeration of long-term team needs, positional value, my own player evaluations and schematic fits and the status plan of the 32 teams."
The predicted pick at No. 11: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
The Vikings figure to trade up to land a QB in the real draft, but with no trades allowed and my choices, they don't have to. McCarthy is polarizing, but I like his chances to thrive with Kevin O'Connell's offense.
The predicted pick at No. 23: Dallas Turner, Edge Defender, Alabama
With their bonus first-rounder and no trades, the Vikings can address their pass rush with Turner. He's got high-end potential if Turner can continue to build up his arsenal and his strength.
Click here for Risdon's full mock draft.
Nate Davis, USA TODAY Sports
April 19, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 3 (after a trade with the Patriots): Drake Maye, Quarterback, North Carolina
Click here for Davis' full mock draft.
Curt Popejoy, Draft Wire
April 18, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 3 (after a trade with the Patriots that includes No. 23): Jayden Daniels, Quarterback, LSU
The Vikings work a big trade with the Patriots to land their franchise quarterback.
Click here for Popejoy's full mock draft.
Bucky Brooks, NFL.com
April 23, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 11: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
Kevin O'Connell gets his quarterback without climbing the board through a blockbuster trade. McCarthy flourished in a managerial role at Michigan, but he possesses the talent to evolve into a playmaker as a pro.
The predicted pick at No. 23: Laiatu Latu, Edge Defender, UCLA
Brian Flores' aggressive scheme could benefit from a dynamic defender with explosive skills on the edge. Latu is the most polished pass rusher in this year's draft class, with a game built for the NFL.
Click here for Brooks' full mock draft.
Eric Edholm, NFL.com
April 22, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 4 (after a trade with the Cardinals that includes No. 23 and a 2025 middle-round pick): J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
After Joshua Dobbs was traded from Arizona to Minnesota last season, the Cards and Vikes swap again in this mock projection. Arizona can't turn down two firsts this year (plus, a 2025 middle-round pick sweetener), even with some enticing receivers on the board. The Vikings make the bold move up and would provide McCarthy with a very QB-friendly landing spot.
Click here for Edholm's full mock draft.
Chad Reuter, NFL.com (seven rounds)
April 19, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 11: Bo Nix, Quarterback, Oregon
Nix's ability to find targets at all three levels, move in and outside the pocket, and direct an offense are quite reminiscent of former Vikings starter Kirk Cousins.
The predicted pick at No. 23: Laiatu Latu, Edge Defender, UCLA
Latu was an ultra-productive player for the Bruins the last two seasons and would add another piece to a revamped Vikings defensive front. His relentless nature and quickness in space make him an ideal NFL starter on the edge, but his injury history could keep him on the board until late in the first round.
The predicted pick at No. 108: Cam Little, Kicker, Arkansas
The predicted pick at No. 129: Christian Mahogany, Guard, Boston College
The predicted pick at No. 157: Jaden Crumedy, Defensive Tackle, Mississippi State
The predicted pick at No. 167: Chau Smith-Wade, Cornerback, Washington State
The predicted pick at No. 177: Jacob Cowing, Receiver, Arizona
The predicted pick at No. 230: Eyabi Okie-Anoma, Edge Defender, Charlotte
The predicted pick at No. 232: Tylan Grable, Tackle, UCF
Click here for Reuter's full mock draft.
Dan Parr, NFL.com
April 18, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 5 (after a trade with the Chargers that includes No. 23): J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
It looks like McCarthy is nearly a lock to go somewhere between picks 3 and 11. The Vikings could sit back and wait for him at No. 11, but that seems like a huge risk to take if they want to get one of the top four quarterbacks off the board. Kwesi Adofo-Mensah packages his two first-rounders to go get the national title winner, who lands in the perfect place.
Click here for Parr's full mock draft.
Peter Schrager, NFL.com
April 16, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 11: Terrion Arnold, Cornerback, Alabama
The Vikings stay put to take a top corner and great all-around prospect. Arnold arrived in Tuscaloosa as a five-star safety, then played inside and outside corner under Nick Saban. He flourished and was the Alabama defense's field general last season. Great juice and a leader. Sam Darnold will be the Vikings Day 1 starter in this scenario, but that doesn't mean Minnesota's done with the quarterbacks room ...
The predicted pick at No. 23: Bo Nix, Quarterback, Oregon
Nix could go as high as 11, 12 or 13 ... or completely fall out of the first round. I think 23 to the Vikings — or another team around here in a trade-up — makes sense. One thing on Nix: He's as accurate as they come, having just set the FBS record this past season with a completion percentage of 77.45. Smart processor, too. These are things that will be very highly valued by offensive coaches and QB gurus. That's Kevin O'Connell. That's Sean Payton. I could see Nix playing for either of those master tacticians.
Click here for Schrager's full mock draft.
Gennaro Filice, NFL.com
April 11, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 5 (after a trade with the Chargers that includes No. 23): J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
After guiding Jim Harbaugh's old team to a national title, McCarthy nets the coach's new team two first-rounders for the price of one. Minnesota's a fine landing spot for J.J., too, with the coach, the pass catchers, the offensive line and perhaps even the patience — depending on how the Vikings view Sam Darnold — to foster the 21-year-old's development at a prudent pace. Everybody wins!
Click here for Filice's full mock draft.
Rhett Lewis, NFL.com
April 9, 2023
The predicted pick at No. 11: Terrion Arnold, Cornerback, Alabama
If you read the intro to this mock, then you understand the rationale here for Minnesota. I tend to side with Daniel Jeremiah's assessment of J.J. McCarthy — that the former Wolverine has a grade closer to Bo Nix and Michael Penix, Jr., than to the top three QBs. If the Vikings have a similar evaluation of the position group, perhaps they choose not to make a splash move into the top five, but rather let the draft come to them and take and the best corner in this year's class. Arnold is ready to handle the pressure of playing in Brian Flores' aggressive scheme.
The predicted pick at No. 18 (after a trade with the Bengals): Bo Nix, Quarterback, Oregon
Concerned that the Rams might have an eye toward the future beyond Matthew Stafford, Minnesota jumps five spots to snag Nix, whose accuracy and operation within Oregon's offense was impeccable over the last two seasons. He's the consummate competitor with the added appeal of immense collegiate experience (NCAA record 61 starts).
Click here for Lewis' full mock draft.
Adam Caplan, Pro Football Network
April 22, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 11: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
We've talked to scouting sources who have graded him as low as the third round, but again, not every team sees J.J. McCarthy the same way, which is always the case at the quarterback position.
McCarthy may not wow anyone with arm strength, but he has enough arm to fit in Head Coach Kevin O'Connell's West Coast offensive scheme (see Brock Purdy).
Journeyman QB Sam Darnold is a decent backup and potential spot starter. Still, he's not the answer at the position, which is why GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah got an extra first-round pick to have the ammunition to trade up if needed.
The predicted pick at No. 23: Darius Robinson, Edge Defender, Missouri
Minnesota's board got hit pretty hard before this pick, but Darius Robinson would fit in well with defensive coordinator Brian Flores' 3-4 front.
Click here for Caplan's full mock draft.
Wil Helms, Pro Football Network (three rounds)
April 23, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 8 (after a trade with Falcons that sends Nos. 11 and 23 to Atlanta and No. 79 to Minnesota): J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
Honestly, despite all the signs pointing to the Minnesota Vikings trading up for J.J. McCarthy, I still feel incredibly tempted not to make it happen. The NFL Draft is weird, and things rarely go how they're predicted. That said, the Vikings wouldn't have made that trade with Houston a few weeks ago if they weren't sold on one of the quarterbacks.
In this scenario, waiting for McCarthy to fall lets Minnesota save its 2025 first-round pick, though the Vikings may have to be willing to pay up if the Raiders or Broncos take an interest in the falling Michigan quarterback.
McCarthy is a polarizing prospect, but his arm strength isn't in question. Whether or not he can truly be a top guy for a franchise is the more significant concern.
The predicted pick at No. 79 (from Atlanta): D.J. James, Cornerback, Auburn
Click here for Helms' full mock draft.
Tony Catalina, Pro Football Network
April 21, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 11: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
In many mock drafts, the Vikings have moved up to get their guy, which many assume to be J.J. McCarthy. In this situation, they don't make the draft-changing move, stand pat, and still get their guy. With opinion divided on the Michigan Wolverines quarterback, there is a legitimate chance that the Vikings might not need to give up their recently acquired second Day 1 pick.
The predicted pick at No. 23: Jer'Zhan ("Johnny") Newton, Defensive Tackle, Illinois
Tough, physical, athletic, and menacing — all words to adequately describe Jer’Zhan “Johnny” Newton. A man who plays the run well but can consistently provide pass rush up the middle is a welcomed addition to a Vikings defense that can use it.
Click here for Catalina's full mock draft.
Ian Cummings, Pro Football Network (seven rounds)
April 20, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 4 (after a trade with the Cardinals for Nos. 11, 23 and a 2025 first-round pick): J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
The Vikings poker face is non-existent. They will try to package picks 11 and 23 to move up for a QB. The only question is how far they'll move up. In my opinion, as long as the Cardinals phones are open, No. 4 is the prime real estate.
Trading to No. 4 allows Minnesota to box out other quarterback-needy teams and get J.J. McCarthy — a polarizing but high-upside QB prospect who's just 21 years old. McCarthy fits Kevin O'Connell's scheme well, and he'd be incubated by the team's supporting talent.
The predicted pick at No. 108: Malik Washington, Receiver, Virginia
The predicted pick at No. 129: Beau Brade, Safety, Maryland
The predicted pick at No. 157: Fabien Lovett, Defensive Tackle, Florida State
The predicted pick at No. 167: Gabriel Murphy, Edge Defender, UCLA
The predicted pick at No. 177: Jaylin Simpson, Defensive Back, Auburn
The predicted pick at No. 230: KT Leveston, Offensive Line, Kansas State
The predicted pick at No. 232: Willie Drew, Cornerback, Virginia State
Click here for Cummings' seven-round mock draft.
Pro Football Network Consensus Draft (seven rounds)
April 11
The predicted pick at No. 11: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
After parting ways with Kirk Cousins, the Minnesota Vikings are a prime contender to move up and snag a new signal-caller in the 2024 NFL Draft. J.J. McCarthy is the name most commonly linked to the program, mainly due to his status as the "best of the rest" after the consensus top-three passers. He's a leader with a winning pedigree and alluring traits.
Other players receiving consideration: Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State; Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama; Olumuyiwa Fashanu, T, Penn State; Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo
The predicted pick at No. 23: Byron Murphy II, Defensive Tackle, Texas
Quarterback and defensive tackle are the two most considerable draft needs for the Vikings. Ticking both off without giving up any additional capital would be a major coup, but they managed to achieve that in this 2024 NFL Mock Draft. Byron Murphy II is an explosive pass rusher who has a stout 6-foot-1, 308-pound frame that can hold up to playing from multiple spots across the DL.
Other players receiving consideration: Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois; Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State; Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA; Cooper DeJean, DB, Iowa
The predicted pick at No. 108: Malik Washington, Receiver, Virginia
The predicted pick at No. 129: Cedric Johnson, Edge Defender, Mississippi
The predicted pick at No. 157: Jarvis Brownlee, Jr., Cornerback, Louisville
The predicted pick at No. 167: Gabe Hall, Defensive Tackle, Baylor
The predicted pick at No. 177: Xavier Thomas, Edge Defender, Clemson
The predicted pick at No. 230: Ryan Watts, Cornerback, Texas
The predicted pick at No. 232: Mark Perry, Safety, TCU
Click here for PFN's staff consensus seven-round mock draft.
Ari Meirov, The 33rd Team
April 22, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 11: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
A trade-up could likely be required for the Minnesota Vikings to get a quarterback in this draft, but I don't think they will have to go all the way to No. 4 with Arizona the way most people think, especially if it's for J.J. McCarthy. Assuming it can't get Drake Maye, Minnesota could be more patient and let the draft come to them; trading up to No. 7 or 8 would make more sense.
McCarthy is the most polarizing quarterback of the top four. Still, he would walk into easily the best position of anyone: Minnesota has the play-caller in Kevin O'Connell, the playmakers with Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson and Aaron Jones, and the protection with bookend tackles Christian Darrisaw and Brian O'Neill.
The predicted pick at No. 23: Jer'Zhan ("Johnny") Newton, Defensive Tackle, Illinois
The Minnesota Vikings could very well not even have this pick if they trade up, which many people think is likely. Jer'Zhan Newton had more than 100 pressures over the past two seasons, and some people rate him as the draft's top interior defensive lineman.
The First-Team All-American had surgery in January to repair a fracture in his foot and did not do any workouts during the pre-draft process.
Click here for Meirov's full mock draft.
Marcus Mosher, The 33rd Team (seven rounds)
April 15, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 3 (after sending Nos. 11, 23 and a 2025 first-round selection to the Patriots for this pick and No. 103): Drake Maye, Quarterback, North Carolina
The Minnesota Vikings are expected to aggressively search for their next franchise quarterback. Rather than "settle" for J.J. McCarthy, they get aggressive and go after Drake Maye at No. 3. Maye has all the tools to be a franchise quarterback and lands in a dream spot with the Vikings.
The predicted pick at No. 103: D.J. James, Cornerback, Auburn
The predicted pick at No. 108: Erick All, Tight End, Iowa
The predicted pick at No. 129: Xavier Thomas, Edge Defender, Clemson
The predicted pick at No. 157: Jarvis Brownlee, Jr., Cornerback, Louisville
The predicted pick at No. 167: Chau Smith-Wade, Cornerback, Washington State
The predicted pick at No. 177: Beau Brade, Safety, Maryland
The predicted pick at No. 230: Michael Wiley, Running Back, Arizona
The predicted pick at No. 232: Jackson Sirmon, Linebacker, California
Click here for Mosher's full mock draft.
Ian Valentino, The 33rd Team
April 11, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 11: Bo Nix, Quarterback, Oregon
Most expected the Minnesota Vikings to quickly execute a second trade up after acquiring the 23rd overall pick from Houston, but it's taken so long that it's fair to wonder if the Vikings misplayed their hand.
Further mortgaging several picks to move up for McCarthy seems unwise if they can just sit tight at No. 11 and nab Bo Nix. Nix has similar tools to his Michigan counterpart but more experience.
The predicted pick at No. 23: Jared Verse, Edge Defender, Florida State
Swapping out Danielle Hunter for Jonathan Greenard should prove to be a shrewd move. Now, Minnesota has to find a strong complementary piece so that Andrew Van Ginkel isn't asked to do too much.
Florida State's Jared Verse has an NFL-ready body, is a stout run defender and has the athleticism needed to be a solid No. 2 option.
Click here for Valentino's full mock draft.
Bleacher Report Scouting Dept.
April 10, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 11: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
The Minnesota Vikings land their quarterback of the future and didn't even trade up to do so. Shocking, isn't it? Not entirely.
Let's not forget that certain prospects are propped up throughout the pre-draft process. A year ago at this time, Will Levis was viewed as a potential top-five selection. He fell into the second round.
While the previous example isn't meant to downplay the talent of Michigan's J.J. McCarthy, it shows how certain "truths" leading up to the event can be misleading. Furthermore, McCarthy is graded as a fringe first-round talent by the B/R Scouting Dept. In essence, this could be viewed as a reach.
Whatever the case, this pairing is a perfect match.
"With Drake Maye off the board, McCarthy is the class' ideal quarterback for Vikings head coach/offensive play-caller Kevin O'Connell," Derrik Klassen said. "McCarthy offers great throwing velocity, pocket toughness and unwavering confidence throwing over the middle of the field. O'Connell can use all of those traits to get productive play out of McCarthy early on while the young quarterback cleans up his footwork and touch accuracy."
The predicted pick at No. 23: Byron Murphy II, Defensive Tackle, Texas
After adding a new franchise quarterback without trading up for his services, the Minnesota Vikings benefit by addressing another area of need with their second opening-round selection.
"Minnesota's interior pass rush was terrible last season as Harrison Phillips led the group with a career-high three sacks," Matt Holder said. "It wasn't as if Phillips or any other defensive tackle was getting consistent pressure.
"Texas' Byron Murphy II can help fix the problem while also adding a quality run defender. His run-stopping ability gives him a significant edge to be an immediate starter over free-agent signing Jerry Tillery.
"The only issue here will be avoiding confusion between cornerback Byron Murphy, Jr., who is already on the roster, and defensive tackle Byron Murphy II."
All joking aside, Murphy led the Big 12 Conference in quarterback pressures last season, and he's the class' best interior pass-rusher.
Click here for Bleacher Report's full mock draft.
Danny Heifetz, The Ringer
April 23, 2024
The predicted pick at No. 4: J.J. McCarthy, Quarterback, Michigan
Trade: The Vikings receive the No. 4 pick after sending the Nos. 11, 23 and 108 picks and a seventh-rounder to the Cardinals.
The price is steep. But the possibility that Denver will reportedly put All-Pro cornerback Patrick Surtain II on the table convinces Minnesota to move up to No. 4 to get its QB. When I asked Vikings Head Coach Kevin O'Connell about Kirk Cousins at the NFL Combine, he could barely contain himself as he said how much he wanted the veteran to stay. McCarthy is a younger, cheaper, more agile version of Cousins. With Justin Jefferson at receiver, he'll be in a phenomenal position to succeed.
Click here for Heifetz's full mock draft.
