EAGAN, Minn. — Across multiple metrics, the Vikings have one of the best starting safety combos in the NFL.
Harrison Smith is entering his ninth season, having been to the Pro Bowl in each of the past five.
Anthony Harris, an undrafted free agent in 2015, tied for the NFL lead with six interceptions in 2019. He showed he was ready to be a Week 1 starter last fall by picking off Matt Ryan twice and recovering a fumble.
At the time of the 2020 NFL Draft, Minnesota wasn't looking for a starting safety. The Vikings instead needed to add depth behind the dynamic duo and did so with a pair of picks.
The Vikings roster has three rookie safeties: Josh Metellus (205th overall pick), Brian Cole II (249th overall pick) and Myles Dorn (undrafted free agent). As we cap our Xs and Os series on draft picks, here's a breakdown of Metellus and Cole. Vikings.com's Lindsey Young has a feature on Dorn coming out later this week.
View images of Vikings new S Josh Metellus from his days at Michigan.
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) celebrates a play in the second half of an NCAA college football game against Indiana in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus, left, runs Ohio State receiver Parris Campbell out-of-bounds during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Michigan defensive backs Josh Metellus (14), Tyree Kinnel (23) and linebacker Khaleke Hudson (7) gang tackle Wisconsin tight end Jake Ferguson (84) after a catch in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) tackles Florida running back Lamical Perine (22) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus gets set to run the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus does the bench press at the NFL football scouting combine Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, in Indianapolis. (AJ Mast/AP Images for NFL)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus does the bench press at the NFL football scouting combine Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, in Indianapolis. (AJ Mast/AP Images for NFL)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack (11) scores on a 16-yard touchdown reception as Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) defends in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Michigan safety Josh Metellus poses for a headshot during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Alabama tight end Miller Forristall (87) tries to get past Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) after a reception during the second half of the Citrus Bowl NCAA college football game, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Alabama wide receiver Henry Ruggs III (11) can't hang on to a pass as he is defended by Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) during the second half of the Citrus Bowl NCAA college football game, Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
North safety Josh Metellus of Michigan (14) during the first half of the Senior Bowl college football game Saturday, Jan. 25, 2020, in Mobile, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
South wide receiver Jauan Jennings of Tennessee (15) catches a pass for a touchdown over North safety Jalen Elliott of Notre Dame (21) and North safety Josh Metellus of Michigan (14) during the second half of the Senior Bowl college football game Saturday, Jan. 25, 2020, in Mobile, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
North safety Josh Metellus of Michigan (14) during the first half of the Senior Bowl college football game Saturday, Jan. 25, 2020, in Mobile, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
Michigan linebacker Devin Gil (8), quarterback Shea Patterson (2) and Josh Metellus (14) walk off the field after an NCAA college football game against Army in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019. Michigan won 24-21 in double-overtime. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) intercepts a pass intended for Iowa wide receiver Tyrone Tracy Jr. (3) as Ambry Thomas (1) defends during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) intercepts a pass from Maryland quarterback Josh Jackson, as Maryland's Sean Savoy tries to bring him down during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in College Park, Md. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
Ohio State wide receiver Chris Olave (17) catches a 57-yard touchdown pass as Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) defends in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Ohio State wide receiver Chris Olave (17) catches a 57-yard touchdown pass ahead of Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Michigan State running back Elijah Collins (24) gets tackled by Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus, top left, and linebacker Cameron McGrone (44) in the first quarter of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. Michigan won 44-10. (AP Photo/Tony Ding)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus, center bottom, is brought down by Maryland offensive lineman Ellis McKennie (68) and wide receiver Sean Savoy (29) after Metellus intercepted a pass from quarterback Josh Jackson during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in College Park, Md. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus plays against Rutgers in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor (23) against Michigan defensive back Sammy Faustin (17) and defensive back Josh Metellus (14) during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Madison, Wis. Wisconsin won 35-14. (AP Photo/Andy Manis)
Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor (23) and Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Andy Manis)
Michigan defensive back Lavert Hill (24) celebrates his touchdown interception with defensive backs Brandon Watson, left, and Josh Metellus during the fourth quarter of an NCAA college football game against Wisconsin in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018. Michigan won 38-13. (AP Photo/Tony Ding)
Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor (23) and Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Andy Manis)
Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor make a first-down run against Michigan defensive back Brad Hawkins and defensive back Josh Metellus during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Andy Manis)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus reacts during overtime in an NCAA college football game against Army in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019. Michigan won 24-21 in double-overtime. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
CORRECTS SCORE TO 35-14- Michigan defensive lineman Aidan Hutchinson, left, and defensive back Josh Metellus, right, tackle Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor, center, during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Madison, Wis. Wisconsin won 35-14. (AP Photo/Andy Manis)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019 in Ann Arbor, Mich. (AP Photo/Rick Osentoski)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) recovers a fumble by Army in the first quarter of an NCAA football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019. Michigan won 24-21 in double-overtime. (AP Photo/Tony Ding)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019 in Ann Arbor, Mich. (AP Photo/Rick Osentoski)
Michigan defensive backs Josh Metellus (14), Tyree Kinnel (23) and linebacker Khaleke Hudson (7) gang-tackle Wisconsin tight end Jake Ferguson (84) after a catch during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Middle Tennessee quarterback Chase Cunningham (16) throws a pass, defended by Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14), in the third quarter of an NCAA football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Michigan won 40-21. (AP Photo/Tony Ding)
Army running back Artice Hobbs IV (32) rushes ahead of Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) in the third quarter of an NCAA football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019. Michigan won 24-21 in double-overtime. (AP Photo/Tony Ding)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) returns an interception intended for Wisconsin wide receiver Kendric Pryor (3) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Florida quarterback Feleipe Franks (13) runs out of the pocket against Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
Player Profile: Josh Metellus, Michigan, senior
Metellus is listed at 5-foot-11 and 209 pounds. He played in 47 contests with 38 starts (37 at safety and one at linebacker) and earned All-Big Ten First-Team honors from The Associated Press in 2018. Metellus also garnered Second-Team recognition from league coaches in 2018 and Honorable Mention in 2017 and '19.
The native of Pembroke Pines, Florida, proved able to do a bit of everything, totaling 187 tackles (101 solo), 9.0 tackles for loss, 1.0 sack, five interceptions, 21 passes defended, a forced fumble, fumble recovery and blocked punt. All five of his picks and 7.5 of his tackles for loss were recorded in the past two seasons.
Metellus played for Devin Bush, Sr., and helped Flanagan High School (Florida) win the FHSAA Class 8A state title in 2015. He then joined teammates Devin Bush and Devin Gil at Michigan. Bush was selected by Pittsburgh with the 10th overall pick in 2019. The older Bush played eight seasons in the NFL, winning a Super Bowl with the 1999 Rams.
Where He Could Play: The Vikings are stacked at their starting safety spots, but depth is always a good thing to have.
Metellus will be able to be an understudy and learn directly from Smith and Harris, who are quite versatile and effective in Head Coach Mike Zimmer's scheme that tasks safeties with a wide array of responsibilities.
While learning the interchangeable aspects of safety play in the system, Metellus no doubt will be soaking up everything he can on special teams. He used the virtual offseason program as an opportunity to ask Special Teams Coordinator Marwan Maalouf numerous questions.
Self-reflection: "Moving around definitely helps me because at the end of the day I just want to be able to get on the field. Moving around at Michigan has helped me a lot with getting a different feel for the game and helping my football IQ. That's the biggest thing, I'll be able to come in and do whatever the coaches ask."
— Metellus
Film Breakdown: Former Vikings player and coach Pete Bercich, now a Vikings Radio Network analyst, looked at some of Metellus' college tape and said he is "very intrigued by this pick."
Bercich suggested that Metellus should connect with Maalouf soon after entering Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center.
"As a player, and I know this personally, everyone wants to make the team at their position. Well, the problem you have is you have Anthony Harris and Harrison Smith, two pretty darn good safeties in front of you," Bercich said. "It doesn't mean you're not a great football player, it doesn't mean you're not going to make this team, but you have to understand how. You've got to go to Marwan Maalouf's office, knock on his door and say, 'I'm going to be your best friend.'
"This is before going to your position coaches. You've got to get in there, get to know the special teams, let them know, 'Whatever it is that I need to do to make the team, I'm going to do,' Bercich continued. "I believe that Josh Metellus can be one of the better special teams players out there as well, so I'm looking for this kid to have an impact in a number of different ways this year. Tons of potential, love the way he reads and how quick he is to react."
Bercich noted that Metellus lined up at multiple spots before snaps and was quick to process what was going on during plays. One such play resulted in an interception at Maryland.
"In this instance here, he's the deep safety. As soon as the ball is snapped and the receiver is running that route, the flare. [Metellus] sees the flare, he knows that the outside guy is coming underneath, so he immediately stops his feet and goes underneath to pick that thing off," Bercich said. "When you have a safety who is not a 4.4 guy [in the 40-yard dash], he can't waste any movement, but I think this kid is veteran enough and can diagnose the plays. The ball gets tipped, he comes underneath and makes the play, so you've got to love — and you'll see it throughout this film — his ability to recognize plays and to be at the right place at the right time."
Bercich also pointed out a pair of pass breakups at Indiana.
"You'll see Josh out here toward the bottom of the field, kind of playing a nickel corner, but still a safety off," Bercich said. "As soon as he sees the receiver chop his feet, he looks inside and sees that slot receiver coming out to block him, so he knows he's got himself a whip screen in front of him. He plants his foot and is able to get underneath, get in and break that play up."
The other play against the Hoosiers involved diagnosing a pre-snap movement by Indiana and communication to other teammates before a goal-to-go play. Metellus then thwarts a corner route in the end zone.
"This is one of the hardest things you can do as a DB in a number of ways. First of all, it's 3-on-3 on the outside. They have no extra defender. That's tough," Bercich said. "The second thing is he's covering that slot receiver, and that slot receiver runs a corner route, so he's got to set up, be inside with his body and then get outside and undercut that route. I love to see the awareness of where he fits, the receiver coming at him, him blocking the inside, but as soon as that receiver cuts to the corner, he plants his foot, goes underneath and tries to get underneath that throw and break it up. Fantastic recognition."
View images of Brian Cole II from is days at Mississippi State.
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II (32) warms up before an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 at Mississippi St. in Starkville, Miss. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II sits on the bench during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II participates in a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II participates in a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II participates in a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II participates in a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II participates in a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II looks on during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II participates in a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II participates in a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II looks on during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II participates in a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II looks on during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Texas A&M tight end Jalen Wydermyer (85) looks towards the end zone after fighting off Mississippi State safety Brian Cole II (32) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in College Station, Texas. (AP Photo/Sam Craft)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Mississippi State defensive back Marcus Murphy (7) and safety Brian Cole II (32) celebrate after Murphy's interception return for a touchdown against Arkansas during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Fayetteville, Ark. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II does a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II does a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
Abilene Christian wide receiver Kobe Clark (88) tries to turn the corner past Mississippi State safety Brian Cole II (32) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019, in Starkville, Miss. Mississippi State won 45-7. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Kentucky wide receiver Lynn Bowden, Jr. (1) attempts to shake off Mississippi State safety Brian Cole II (32) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Starkville, Miss. Mississippi State won 28-13. (AP Photo/Kelly Donoho)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II (32) reacts during the first half of an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 at Mississippi St. in Starkville, Miss. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
LSU running back Tyrion Davis-Price (3) is tackled by Mississippi State safety Brian Cole II (32) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. LSU won 36-13. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) tries to fight off a tackle by Mississippi State safety Brian Cole II (32) after a pass reception during the first half of their NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II (32) reacts during the first half of an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 at Mississippi St. in Starkville, Miss. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
Mississippi State defensive back Landon Guidry (35) and Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II (32) celebrate a fumble recovery against Kansas State during the second half of an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 at Mississippi St. in Starkville, Miss. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
Kansas State wide receiver Wykeen Gill (21) can't make a catch with Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II (32) trailing during the first half of an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 at Mississippi St. in Starkville, Miss. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
Mississippi State Bulldogs Cameron Dantzler (3) celebrates his interception with teammates Brian Cole II (32) and Chauncey Rivers (5) during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Louisiana Lafayetter in New Orleans, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. (AP Photo/Chuck Cook)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II (32) gets set against Kansas State during the first half of an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 at Mississippi St. in Starkville, Miss. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
Florida running back Jordan Scarlett (25) is tackled short of a first down by Mississippi State defenders including safety Brian Keith Cole (32) during the first half of their NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018. Florida won 13-6. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
White quarterback Keytaon Thompson (10) has a pass blocked by Maroon defensive back Brian Cole (32) during the first half of Mississippi State's spring NCAA college football game Saturday, April 21, 2018, in Starkville, Miss. Maroon won 28-10. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Mississippi State quarterback Garrett Shrader (6) passes while safety Brian Cole (32) defends during the team's spring NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, April 13, 2019. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Player Profile: Brian Cole II, Mississippi State, redshirt senior
Cole, who is listed at 6-2 and 213 pounds, nearly was a teammate of Metellus at Michigan.
The native of Saginaw, Michigan, began his college career with the Wolverines in 2015 as a receiver. After playing three games, he transferred to East Mississippi Community College and switched sides of the ball. He did well at school that has been spotlighted on Netflix's Last Chance U, ranking in the top five among JUCO safeties in America, according to 247 Sports and Scout.com. Cole then transferred to Mississippi State.
After redshirting in 2017, he played five games (four starts) before suffering an injury in 2018. Cole returned to action last fall and started all 12 games he played, ranking third on the team with 65 tackles and second with 7.5 tackles for loss in 2019.
Cole was the top-rated player in Michigan by 247 Sports and ESPN.com when he signed with the Wolverines.
Where He Could Play: Cole also will be able to learn the finer points of versatility at safety from Smith and Harris, but he may be best suited for in-the-box play because of his size.
The pivoting that he did during his college transitions should help him adjust on the fly at this level.
Special teams are likely to be quite important in his quest for a roster spot as well.
It's also possible that Minnesota could try Cole in a "big nickel" defense with him as a fifth defensive back, similar to the role that former safety Jayron Kearse grew into last season.
Self-reflection: "It was a transition for me going from offense to defense. That was my first year playing defense. I just had to get used to not touching the ball, not playing offense, tackling and reading offenses instead of reading a defense, and personally it's my growth. When you go from a D-I school to a junior college, it's a major difference. As far as scholarship money, the food you eat, where you lay your head at night, everything is just different. But it molded me. That's what humbled me, that's what got me to love the game of football again and brought the drive back."
— Cole
Film Breakdown: Bercich noted Cole's "requisite size" to play safety in the NFL and said he believes the rookie "has a lot of upside."
"He's a big-bodied guy, in the paint, making a lot of tackles," Bercich said. "We'll see how he can do in coverage, and I think that's going to be his biggest challenge as he tries to make a roster spot on this 2020 Vikings team.
"One of the things you'll notice is that Cole lines up in the slot, sort of a nickel defender as we would traditionally call it," Bercich added. "I don't think he possesses the quickness to play that position at this next level, so he's going to have to find a way to fit in at one of the two safety positions, maybe come in if a big-nickel situation is involved where you have a three-receiver set and teams are going to be heavy on the run."
Bercich noted Cole's ability to blitz in a play against Kansas State.
"He disguises it well, times it perfectly, gets in there, sacks the quarterback, causes a fumble, so a big playmaker from the outside, and whenever a big body can get moving north and south, he is able to make things happen," Bercich said.
View images of all of the Minnesota Vikings 2020 NFL Draft picks.
CB Jeff Gladney
Boise State offensive lineman Ezra Cleveland (76) on the sidelines during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Hawaii, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, in Boise, Idaho. Boise State won 59-37. (AP Photo/Steve Conner)
CORRECTS DATELINE TO TALLAHASSEE, FLA., INSTEAD OF ORLANDO, FLA. - Boise State running back Robert Mahone (34) is lifted in congratulations by offensive lineman Ezra Cleveland (76) for scoring the winning touchdown during the fourth quarter of an NCAA college football game against Florida State, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019 in Tallahassee, Fla. (AP Photo/Gary McCullough)
Boise State offensive lineman Ezra Cleveland, left, battles against Hawaii defensive lineman Kaimana Padello, right, in the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, in Boise, Idaho. Boise State won 59-37. (AP Photo/Steve Conner)
Mississippi State defensive back Cameron Dantzler (3) defends on a pass play against Arkansas during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019 in Fayetteville, Ark. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Mississippi State defensive back Cameron Dantzler runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Mississippi State cornerback Cameron Dantzler (3) returns an interception against Louisiana-Lafayette during the first half of an NCAA college football game in New Orleans, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. (AP Photo/Chuck Cook)
Mississippi State cornerback Cameron Dantzler (3) defends Louisiana-Lafayette wide receiver Ja'Marcus Bradley (2) in the second half of an NCAA college football game in New Orleans, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Mississippi State won, 38-28. (AP Photo/Chuck Cook)
Mississippi State assistant coach Terrell Buckley talks to cornerback Cameron Dantzler (3) in the second half of their NCAA college football game against Louisiana-Lafayette in New Orleans, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Mississippi State won, 38-28. (AP Photo/Chuck Cook)
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)
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)
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)
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 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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
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)
Temple cornerback Harrison Hand (23) stops Maryland place kicker Mike Shinsky (41) on the fake field goal during the first half of an NCAA college football, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Philadelphia. Temple won 20-17. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
Memphis wide receiver Damonte Coxie (10) gets tackled by Temple cornerback Harrison Hand (23) to end the second half of an NCAA college football, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, in Philadelphia. Temple won 30-28. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
Miami wide receiver K.J. Osborn runs against Florida after a reception during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Miami wide receiver K.J. Osborn (2) sets up for a play at the line of scrimmage during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Florida Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Miami wide receiver K.J. Osborn, center, fumbles the ball as he is hit by Florida linebacker Jonathan Greenard, left, and defensive back Shawn Davis during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Miami wide receiver K.J. Osborn runs against Florida after a reception during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Oregon State Beavers offensive lineman Blake Brandel (73) warms up before the first half of an NCAA college football game against the on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in Fort Collins, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
Oregon State offensive lineman Blake Brandel, left, blocks Washington State defensive lineman Kingston Fernandez (52) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Pullman, Wash., Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017. (AP Photo/Young Kwak)
Oregon State Beavers offensive lineman Blake Brandel (73) warms up before the first half of an NCAA college football game against the on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in Fort Collins, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) celebrates a play in the second half of an NCAA college football game against Indiana in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Florida quarterback Feleipe Franks (13) runs out of the pocket against Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14) tackles Florida running back Lamical Perine (22) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus, left, runs Ohio State receiver Parris Campbell out-of-bounds during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Middle Tennessee quarterback Chase Cunningham (16) throws a pass, defended by Michigan defensive back Josh Metellus (14), in the third quarter of an NCAA football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. Michigan won 40-21. (AP Photo/Tony Ding)
FILE - In this Oct. 20, 2018, file photo, Michigan State defensive end Kenny Willekes rushes the line during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Michigan in East Lansing, Mich. Ohio State visits Michigan State needing a win to stay on track for a Big Ten East showdown with Michigan in two weeks. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio, File)
Ohio State quarterback Dwayne Haskins is sacked by Michigan State defensive end Kenny Willekes (48) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in East Lansing, Mich. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)
Michigan State defensive end Kenny Willekes (48) recovers a fumble for a turnover by Nebraska quarterback Adrian Martinez (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Lincoln, Neb., Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik)
Nebraska quarterback Adrian Martinez (2) carries the ball in front of Michigan State defensive end Kenny Willekes (48) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Lincoln, Neb., Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik)
Michigan State's Kenny Willekes reacts against Ohio State during the first quarter of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in East Lansing, Mich. (AP Photo/Al Goldis)
Penn State linebacker Ellis Brooks, center, pressures as Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley pulls back to pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney)
Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley gets set during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney)
Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley warms up before an NCAA college football game against Purdue, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley, left, talks with the offense in a huddle during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, in Iowa City, Iowa. (AP Photo/Matthew Putney)
Iowa quarterback Nate Stanley (4) passes against Northwestern during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in Evanston, Ill. (AP Photo/David Banks)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II (32) warms up before an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 at Mississippi St. in Starkville, Miss. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
Mississippi State Bulldogs Cameron Dantzler (3) celebrates his interception with teammates Brian Cole II (32) and Chauncey Rivers (5) during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Louisiana Lafayetter in New Orleans, Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019. (AP Photo/Chuck Cook)
Mississippi State defensive back Brian Cole II (32) reacts during the first half of an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 at Mississippi St. in Starkville, Miss. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
Mississippi State quarterback Garrett Shrader (6) passes while safety Brian Cole (32) defends during the team's spring NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, April 13, 2019. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Bercich said "there's no question" that Cole can be a good run defender in the NFL, but what about pass coverage? He highlighted plays at Tennessee and Arkansas that resulted in an end-zone interception and pass breakup.
"Here is one of the toughest routes that you can ask a safety or any DB to cover," Bercich said of the play against the Volunteers. "That's shaded outside on the No. 2 receiver and then have to come back, cover that receiver all the way to the post, and he does a great job of following him in, going and getting the football and then intercepting it. That's a pretty impressive coverage play by a guy who is in the box, in the paint and making a lot of tackles on the run."
The Razorbacks tried to "okey-doke" Cole and make the pass play look like a run, but Cole wasn't having it. He used strong technique to force the incompletion.
"Cole keeps his right hand on the receiver and then goes for the football with his left hand, which is great fundamentally," Bercich said. "That way, if he does miss the pass breakup, he's able to have his right hand on the hip of the receiver and bring him down, a good fundamental play right there."
