TEAM NEEDS
Quarterback:
It's puzzling that a team appearing to have everything in place to be a contender, with one glaring hole, just doesn't get it right. That division is certainly theirs for the taking, but if they are unable to land a bona fide signal caller, their window will close. Adding a career backup in Rosenfels to unimpressive incumbents Tavaris Jackson and Gus Frerotte leaves little optimism for the position. Unless they trade up for Stafford or Sanchez they may be reduced to taking Kansas St. QB Josh Freeman in the first round. The kid is raw, but he may be starting for this team by week five.
Offensive Tackle:
The run-blocking of this group is superb. But tackles are paid to protect the quarterback, something that both starters Bryant McKinnie and Ryan Cook struggled with. McKinnie has the talent to continue to be a mainstay on the left side, but a replacement for Cook should be in the works. Oregon's Fenuki Tupou could be a force from the get-go and should be snagged no later than the third round.
Wide Receiver:
This unit did about as much as you could ask from them in 2008. Bernard Berrian displayed a knack for big plays and Bobby Wade led the team in receptions while playing primarily in the slot. The Vikings have been burned in recent drafts with receivers who never lived up to potential (Troy Williams in 2005, Aundrae Allsion in 2007), but they still need to find quality guys to give the position some depth. Demetrius Byrd from LSU has a chip on his shoulder after a disappointing senior year that failed to capitalize on lofty expectations. He could be a real steal in the sixth round.
PODCAST
I recently joined Dave Dameshek on his podcast to discuss the draft. Check it out. Mel Kiper even called in and yapped a bit.