The Minnesota Vikings have enjoyed a terrific offseason to date. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah entered free agency intending to improve the trenches on both offense and defense. He accomplished that by signing offensive guard Will Fries and defensive tackle Jonathan Allen to lucrative contracts. Adofo-Mensah also managed to retain key role players such as Aaron Jones, Theo Jackson, and Byron Murphy Jr.
The big question surrounding the Vikings right now is the quarterback position. Last year's starter Sam Darnold signed with the Seattle Seahawks. That leaves sophomore first-rounder J.J. McCarthy in the starting role, though Adofo-Mensah has been linked to making a potentially shocking move for Aaron Rodgers.
Whenever the quarterback decision is sorted through, the Vikings will shift their attention to the 2025 NFL Draft. They are equipped with just four total selections, including No. 24 overall in the first round. We've conducted a seven-round mock draft that continues building on their offseason.
Round 1 (No. 24 overall): Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas
The Vikings managed to retain Murphy Jr. before he hit free agency, but they appear slated to lose Stephon Gilmore and Shaquill Griffin at cornerback. Mekhi Blackmon is the only other starting-caliber corner on the roster. Adofo-Mensah could target the position at No. 24 overall as a result.
Jahdae Barron has established himself as a first-round prospect throughout this process. Barron is incredibly instinctual and defensive coordinator Brian Flores will appreciate his clock-and-close ability. Barron would immediately start in Minnesota's secondary. The Longhorns standout is versatile and physical and plays with effort.
Round 3 (No. 97 overall): Jalen Rivers, IOL, Miami
Improving the interior offensive line has been a priority. Adofo-Mensah signed aforementioned guard Fries to a massive four-year contract worth $88 million, and he also upgraded center by swapping Garrett Bradbury for Ryan Kelly. The lone remaining hole is at right guard.
Ed Ingram was traded to the Houston Texans earlier this week after struggling mightily last season. Fill-in replacement Dalton Risner is currently a free agent. The Vikings should consider signing a competent veteran here, but Jalen Rivers would be an intriguing mid-round target. Rivers is physically impressive and is expected to make the full-time transition to guard.
Round 5 (No. 139 overall): LeQuint Allen Jr., RB, Syracuse
Jones was retained at running back via a two-year contract worth $20 million, but there's no guarantee he will play out that second and final year. Jones turns 31 during the 2025 campaign. The running back class is historically deep, offering Adofo-Mensah an opportunity to potentially draft a mid-round replacement.
LeQuint Allen Jr. carries three-down potential. The Syracuse performer is a well-built 6-foot, 200 pounds and has been elite in goal-to-go situations. Allen Jr. is versatile as a runner and pass catcher, playing the position with outstanding vision and toughness.
Round 5 (No. 160 overall): Dan Jackson, SAF, Georgia
Georgia safety Dan Jackson was among the biggest 2025 NFL Combine snubs. The versatile defender proved that at his Pro Day. Jackson ran the 40 between 4.39 and 4.46 seconds, per scouts who hand-timed his performance in person.
Theo Jackson and Harrison Smith are back at safety, but Cam Bynum signed a massive contract with the Indianapolis Colts. Adofo-Mensah needs to replace Smith next season. Jackson could be a long-term solution while also contributing in three-safety looks this coming year.
