It’s pretty obvious that the Vikings are in need of some offensive line help as we sit two weeks out from the first-round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Whether that’s at the tackle position or on the interior remains to be seen, but it seems likely that the team will need to address the issue within the first few rounds.
Former Virginia Tech Offensive Tackle Christian Darrisaw is a player that should be on the Vikings’ radar come April 29. At 6’5” and 314 pounds, he already has the ideal build to play tackle at the next level. On top of having great size, the former Hokie plays with good athleticism and would be an ideal fit in the outside zone scheme the Vikings run.
Darrisaw is at his best when he’s out in space and flashes on tape in the screen game. The Vikings utilize Dalvin Cook frequently in that regard and getting a left tackle that can get down field would benefit the team in a big way.
The biggest question revolving around all the offensive line prospects is their ability to protect Kirk Cousins. This has been a question mark on the roster since Cousins signed with Minnesota in 2018 and getting Darrisaw should improve the unit as a whole.
According to PFF, Darrisaw is the highest-graded power five pass-blocker in this draft class.
Getting an athletic, big-bodied tackle is something the Vikings desperately need after losing Riley Reiff this offseason. It’s possible that the team could trade back a few spots in the first-round and still pick up Darrisaw, but there’s a chance they’d have to take him at 14 if he’s truly a prospect they’re interested in.
Stay tuned for more 2021 NFL Draft profiles in the upcoming weeks on KFAN.com.