The Vikings used two first round picks last night to fill needs at left offensive tackle and safety but among other positions of priority is wide receiver. The NFL draft continues tonight and although the Vikings don’t have a pick in the third round they might choose a wide receiver with their fourth round choice.
Their man might be a wide receiver who has played in Minneapolis before. Iowa wide receiver Marvin McNutt, who played the last two seasons against the Gophers at TCF Bank Stadium, could still be available when the Vikings use the No. 66 pick in the three-day NFL draft.
McNutt, about 6-3, 220-pounds, is a converted quarterback who has deceptive deep speed on pass routes. At Iowa he played in a pro style offense showing ability to get open in the vertical passing game. He also displayed soft hands and toughness while making clutch catches.
On Saturday, during rounds four through seven, the Vikings might look at another neighboring receiver, Wisconsin’s Nick Toon. He’s a good route runner and has made difficult catches. Although similar in size to McNutt he’s not as gifted and has been susceptible to injuries.
The Vikings have already improved the roster after acquiring USC left tackle Matt Kalil and Notre Dame safety Harrison Smith last night. Kalil was a consensus choice as the best offensive lineman in the draft and is likely to become an immediate starter for the Vikings. The addition of Kalil is a double bonus for the offensive line because his presence allows last year’s starting left tackle, Charlie Johnson, to move to left guard.
Safety is probably the neediest position on the roster so the Vikings made a late first round trade to acquire Baltimore’s pick at No. 29. With it they chose Smith, regarded as the second best safety in the draft (after Mark Barron taken by Tampa Bay at No. 7). The Vikings knew this wasn’t a draft deep in safety talent. Vikings general manager Rick Spielman raves about Smith who was a captain for the Irish and is known for his football intelligence.
Smith joins center John Sullivan, tight ends Kyle Rudolph and John Carlson as former Notre Damers on the Vikings roster.