Gaines Adams, defensive end from Clemson, just might be the Vikings No. 1 draft choice later this month. Draft expert Dean Dalton told Sports Headliners on Monday he would choose Adams if the first six picks ahead of the Vikings go pretty much as expected.
Players like wide receiver Calvin Johnson of Georgia Tech, quarterback JaMarcus Russell of LSU, offensive tackle Joe Thomas of Wisconsin and running back Adrian Peterson of Oklahoma are among the most highly regarded prospects and expected to be drafted before Adams. As much as Dalton likes Adams, and recognizes the team’s need for a pass rushing defensive end, he cautions that the Vikings would want to think about not passing over one of the draft’s most elite players if one of them becomes available.
Dalton, a former Vikings assistant coach, is studying about 150 potential draft choices as part of his new media career. He will be providing his draft expertise to ESPN.com, Sirius Radio and FSN North.
How does he evaluate the 6-foot-4, 261-pound Adams? “I like Gaines Adams because he has explosive speed off the edge,” Dalton said. “He has a tremendous first step and he’s a pure pass rushing defensive end with great size, but he has the ability on his frame to become bigger. …He has excellent football instincts. His athleticism along with his big body and long arms allows him to bat balls down when he can not get to the quarterback before the ball is out, as well as close down passing lanes. …”
Dalton is an advocate of what he describes as drafting for “value” rather than just filling a need on the roster. When he was with the Vikings the team had five quarterbacks on the roster with NFL experience but still drafted Daunte Culpepper in the first round because of his extraordinary skill and potential.
Dalton suggests that filling roster spots can be done between April and September through free agent signings and trades. Of course, many teams are like the Vikings with so many needs they can often draft a high value player who plugs a hole. With the uncertainty about the future of defensive end Erasmus James’ left knee, the Vikings need a speed rushing defensive end.
While Adams looks like the more likely pick for the Vikings, Dalton mentioned two other “high impact” defensive players as possibilities. LaRon Landry of LSU is a physical player who has played both strong and free safety for the Tigers and is projected ahead of Adams in ESPN.com’s draft listings. Amobi Okoye of Louisville is a defensive tackle who is only 19 years old and highly regarded by Dalton and others.