We published our first Minnesota Vikings mock draft two months ago. Since then, the quarterback conversation has exploded. The Vikings not only acquired the No. 23 pick from the Houston Texans, but executives have also done little to pour cold water on the idea that they may take a massive swing on a long-term replacement for Kirk Cousins. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah said the team has a “preferred option,” which may include trading up to pick a future franchise quarterback. Doing so is contingent on one of the top teams trading out of their pick, and that’s no given. Whatever the case, the Vikings’ addition of No. 23 gives them flexibility throughout the first round. This mock draft leans into what might happen if Minnesota is unable to trade up, or if head coach Kevin O’Connell prefers a quarterback option who might be available at a later pick. This is a creative scenario to take that approach:
Texas
Kansas State
Houston Baptist
USC
Washington
Notre Dame
Auburn