2021 NFL Draft: One perfect prospect for all 32 teams
By Randy Gurzi
Minnesota Vikings: Rashawn Slater, OL, Northwestern
After releasing Riley Reiff, the Minnesota Vikings need a new left tackle. They could have some options on the roster with Ezra Cleveland on board, but so far he hasn’t played the spot in the NFL.
He has proven he can play guard at the next level but the Vikings would be smart to get some insurance and competition. They also need more help than just at tackle, especially if Cleveland does move over.
That’s why someone such as Rashawn Slater makes so much sense. The Northwestern product is an experienced starter who has played both left and right tackle but could also move to guard, as pointed out by Lance Zierlein of NFL.com.
"“His compact frame carries play strength that can be filed in the ‘grown man’ category, as evidenced by his heads-up battles against 2020 No. 2 overall pick Chase Young in 2019. Slater operates with confidence and efficient movement that sees him in position to get his job done on most snaps. His lack of length will lead some teams to view him as a guard, but the footwork and talent outside might be worth allowing him to prove it at tackle first. His combination of strength, athletic ability and quick processing should make him one of the safer offensive line picks in this draft and an early starter.” — Zierlein, NFL.com."
His addition would help Minnesota field a better line no matter what position he ends up lining up at every Sunday.