Minnesota Vikings: 7-Round 2019 NFL mock draft brings O-line help

By Joe Kipp | Apr 16, 2019

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - OCTOBER 06: Julian Huff #20 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers pushes Noah Fant #87 of the Iowa Hawkeyes out of bounds during the second quarter of the game on October 6, 2018 at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

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LINCOLN, NE – OCTOBER 20: Running back Devine Ozigbo #22 of the Nebraska Cornhuskers celebrates a score in the first half against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Memorial Stadium on October 20, 2018 in Lincoln, Nebraska. (Photo by Steven Branscombe/Getty Images) /

Round 6, Pick 209: Devine Ozigbo, RB, Nebraska

After drafting Dalvin Cook in the second round just two years ago, coupled with the presence of veteran runner Latavius Murray, the Vikings appeared to have one of the most dangerous backfields in the NFL. Then Cook tore his ACL in Week 4 of 2017 and missed almost half the 2018 season with a lingering hamstring injury. Murray has since departed to the New Orleans Saints.

It seems the Vikings’ depth at running back may not have been as strong as we thought. That’s why, with pick No. 209, we have Minnesota taking Nebraska’s Devine Ozigbo. He projects well as Murray’s replacement as a power runner, and could be the thunder to Cook’s lightning.

"“Ozigbo is an explosive, downhill runner with adequate vision and above-average power, but he’s a one-speed runner who might need a more nuanced approach on the next level. Ozigbo’s senior tape and impressive traits could be enough to land a role as an NFL backup.” – NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein"

Although he didn’t impress right away at Nebraska, Ozigbo came out strong as a senior in 2018 by rushing for 1,082 yards and 12 touchdowns on just 155 carries (7.0 yards per carry average). He also showcased the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, hauling in 23 receptions for 203 yards. Ozigbo was not invited to the NFL Combine but ran in the 4.5-second range (40-yard dash) at Nebraska’s Pro Day. He would easily challenge current backups Mike Boone and Roc Thomas for a roster spot.

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