Wednesday, March 5, 2008

A look at the defensive end situation and wideout draft

I am getting sick of the Vikings messing around. Let's review our defensive end situation. We haven't drafted a consistently productive defensive end since 1985. Guess who that was? Chris Doleman. Defensive ends usually take at least a year to prove their worth even if they are a top tier player (see Mario Williams). Our team is ready to make a run now, and we don't have time to wait around for a defensive end to develop. Jevon Kearse is not the solution, Greg Spires and Mike Rucker are over the hill, and Marques Douglas hasn't proved anything. Pursuing any of these guys simply fills the holes, but does not solve the problem. Jared Allen is the solution.

Jared Allen would cost two first round picks or a potential trade. Is losing two first round picks really that bad? We would lose out on another defensive end at pick 17 who is the same caliber player as Kenechi Udeze or Erasmus James. Not losing much there. Assuming the Vikings make the playoffs as expected, we lose a first round pick in the mid twenties in 2009. Is that an impact player? Probably not for a year or two. Once again, we are not playing for the future, we are playing for the present. In return we gain a young, proven, consistent pass rusher in Allen. Problem solved, and the losses are minimal.

Another option is to trade for Allen. It has been rumored that the Chiefs and Vikings have been in discussions about trading Bryant McKinnie and a third round pick for Allen. The theory being, McKinnie has had some problems off the field in Minnesota and Allen has done the same in Kansas City. A new beginning for each player. Since this trade seems completely unrealistic for an elite defensive end, I will provide my adjusted offer. Trade McKinnie and this year's first round pick. We then sign a relatively inexpensive offensive tackle and draft one in the third round for depth and grooming. Although we take a hit at tackle, we get rid of a bad character guy and gain a monster defensive end. Make it happen Zygi!

Also, I want to evaluate another position of need for the draft. We will draft a wide receiver in the second or third round, I can almost guarantee it. After going to YouTube and watching videos of all the potential receivers available, I know who I want. I was completely against DeSean Jackson because of his size until I saw his highlight video, especially his kick returns. What a freak! If Jackson drops, draft him. Also, check out the other receivers available and vote on your favorite after watching their highlights.

DeSean Jackson


Mario Manningham


Malcolm Kelly


Limas Sweed


Devin Thomas


Jordy Nelson



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