The Minnesota Vikings need to be vigilant as several NFL teams may attempt to jump into the top five to snatch one of the top quarterbacks before they can.
For weeks, potential candidates have included the Denver Broncos at the 12th overall pick and the Las Vegas Raiders right behind them at No. 13. However, Trevor Sikkema of Pro Football Focus (PFF) recently pointed out the New York Giants, holding the 6th pick, as a significant threat to Minnesota’s draft strategy, especially if the first three picks see quarterbacks taken and the Arizona Cardinals facilitate a key trade.
The Vikings might need to put forward their best trade offer to secure their franchise quarterback.
The Giants’ strong interest in a quarterback with their 6th pick could push the Vikings to offer up a hefty package to secure their desired franchise QB.
Reports suggest the Patriots are looking for three first-round picks, or possibly more, for their No. 3 pick, as noted by Tom Curran of NBC Sports Boston on April 5. With the Chargers at No. 5, the Vikings might find it challenging to strike a deal, especially if the Patriots take a quarterback at No. 3. This scenario would likely leave the Cardinals in a prime position for any trade negotiations.
Should the Vikings consider the Chargers’ 5th pick, Field Yates of ESPN believes the Vikings might need to trade their 11th and 23rd picks this year, plus a 2025 first-rounder, to move up just six spots.
The Vikings have the opportunity to secure a top-four quarterback by engaging in a potentially costly trade with the Patriots.
This brings us back to the Patriots and their No. 3 pick. Acquiring this spot eliminates any uncertainty, ensuring the Vikings not only get a top-four quarterback but also the chance to pick the third-best QB in the 2024 class, as they see fit.
The decision would likely come down to choosing between Drake Maye from North Carolina, who has a connection with new QB coach Josh McCown since his high school days, and J.J. McCarthy, the National Champion quarterback from Michigan.
The Chicago Bears have the first pick, and USC’s Caleb Williams is expected to be their choice. Following them, the Washington Commanders also need a quarterback, leading many analysts to believe that Jayden Daniels from LSU will be selected by them with the second overall pick.
