Minnesota Vikings: Big-name targets ahead of 2018 NFL trade deadline

Ereck Flowers, OT, New York Giants

Okay, you’re probably realizing that just because they’re big-name players doesn’t mean they’re stars. Unfortunately, I don’t think the Vikings are going to make some blockbuster deal like fans are probably hoping for.

They may, however, take a shot on a busted former first-round pick who maybe just needs a change of scenery. That’s why Ereck Flowers made sense as someone to kick off this list.

On the surface, this seems like a terrible idea. Most of the Vikings’ current offensive linemen are liabilities, so what would Flowers bring to the table that’s different? That’s a reasonable question, and one I don’t have a terrific answer to. With that said, if Minnesota can get him for a conditional late-round pick, why not see if this coaching staff can unlock his potential?

Coming into the league, Flowers had the makings of a legitimate starter. The Giants didn’t disagree, spending the No. 9 overall pick on him and immediately inserting him into the starting lineup. Unfortunately, it was all downhill from there, with him quickly proving himself to be a sore thumb on the blindside.

With Nate Solder now in the Big Apple, Flowers is expendable. If the Vikings can convince them to part with him for minimal compensation, it may be wise to kick the tires. Then again, they could always wait until he’s a free agency, which may be sooner rather than later.