Minnesota Vikings: 4-Round 2019 mock draft following free agency
By Joe Kipp
Round 1, Pick 18: Dalton Risner, OL, Kansas State
This selection may be one of the safest bets in the whole draft. The Vikings had one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL in 2018, which translates to dozens of mock drafts projecting linemen to Minnesota in the first round. Therefore, with the 18th overall pick, Minnesota selects Kansas State’s Dalton Risner in this scenario.
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Risner has extensive experience, starting in 50 of 51 games over the past four years. He moved to right tackle for the remainder of his college career after starting 13 games at center in 2015. His positional versatility offers tremendous upside for the Vikings, who have questions at multiple positions along the offensive line. Risner was named a first-team All-American by multiple media outlets in 2018.
"“His position flexibility (started at right tackle and center) and play traits mirror those of former KSU standout Cody Whitehair. Risner will need to prove he can handle NFL edge speed, but a move inside could be a failsafe option for him.” – NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein"
Selecting Risner would be a safe, but solid option for Rick Spielman and the Vikings. Minnesota would be best not to overthink this one. If Risner is there at Pick 18 on draft day, they shouldn’t hesitate to pull the trigger.