Vikings late draft picks are already looking the part in training camp

[ASFN Admin]

As in all sports, NFL teams need to hit on their draft picks, as their rosters are so expansive. It is imperative to leave a draft class with at least one to two starters and to be able to find depth pieces to support. In recent years, the Minnesota Vikings have struggled to find an abundance of quality, as Minnesota has drafted 28 players since 2022, and only four have turned out to be starters.

However, according to Alec Lewis of The Athletic, the rookies are showing out so far in training camp, with love being given to the later-round picks as well. Here are some of Lewis' thoughts:

Early returns look promising. First-round pick Caleb Banks responded from left foot surgery and is already mixing in with the starters. Second-round linebacker Jake Golday tipped a pass Saturday, evoking shades of edge rusher Andrew Van Ginkel.

There has been positivity from the later-round picks, too. Assistant head coach Frank Smith spent some time after Saturday’s practice reviewing techniques with fullback Max Bredeson. Cornerback Chuck Demmings blanketed Jefferson and deflected a pass. Safety Jakobe Thomas continues to show up in all areas of Brian Flores’ defense, and undrafted safety Jacob Thomas tends to play right alongside him.

This was a defensive-heavy draft class, and it is a promising sign to see that the bulk of the picks are performing well so far. It will be fascinating to see them in action in the preseason to see just how far they have come.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Vikings late draft picks are already looking the part in training camp

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