2018 NFL Draft Grades: Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings got incredibly far last season, falling just short of a Super Bowl bid, and all with Case Keenum finally emerging as an NFL starting QB. Of course, the Vikings jettisoned Keenum after the playoff run to sign Kirk Cousins at QB. Was that a change worth making? The Vikings listed priority needs at WR, TE, OL, CB, and S. Did they do what needed to be done to not only maintain their current standing, but push their way to Super Bowl contenders?

CB Mike Hughes, UCF
Hughes had some off-field baggage to clear up, and apparently, the Vikings felt good about it. He had shot into the 1st round with mocks over the last few weeks before the draft, and was ripe for the picking at the very end of the 1st round. They had serious need at CB, so this player fell right into their laps.
Grade: A

OT Brian O'Neill, Pittsburgh
The Vikings had serious need on the line, and some thought they would go there in the 1st round, but they waited until the 2nd round, and got solid value with McNeill, who could roll into a potential starting job.
Grade: A

DE Jalyn Holmes, Ohio State
Holmes fell to the Vikings in the 4th round, as they had no 3rd round pick, but while this pick got them a player of solid value, and a player who could end up starting at some point, they did not have the need here.
Grade: B

TE Tyler Conklin, Central Michigan
Despite a bevy of drafted TEs over the last decade, the Vikings are always in need at the position. Conklin fills the need, and could develop into a starter down the line for them. That's a solid get for a 5th round pick.
Grade: A

OG Colby Gossett, Appalachian State
Gossett filled a need on the line, but expect nothing more than a developmental role at this point. He did fall almost two rounds, so that adds value.
Grade: A

EDGE Ade Aruna, Tulane
Aruna has some value, and fell two full rounds, but he has to find a role as a developmental prospect here, as he will not stand up at DE. Expect a move to an OLB spot, and see how he does over the next year or two as he learns.
Grade: B

LB Devante Downs, California
This was a 7th round throw away pick. I don't expect him to make the roster. Was not graded or evaluated.
Grade: F

Priority needs filled in first two days: 2
Total Points: 22
Average points per pick: 3.14
Grade: B