The NFC North might be a wide-open race now that Davante Adams has been traded away from the Green Bay Packers. It'll be interesting to see how the Minnesota Vikings approach the 2022 NFL Draft, as they have a decent roster as is. Regardless, now is the time for this franchise to make some noise and they can do in late April.
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Adam Thielen isn't getting any younger and the Vikings need to start searching for his replacement. There are multiple wide receiver prospects available that would serve as a fantastic second option behind Justin Jefferson. If Minnesota aims to take over the NFC North, drafting a talented receiver would be a great start.
Even so, the Vikings could use some help in the secondary. Although Patrick Peterson recently re-signed with Minnesota, the front office should still look for a prospect in the secondary. There are several talented players that will be available for this franchise at the 12th overall selection.
With that said, here are the three prospects the Vikings should consider drafting 12th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Vikings 2022 NFL Draft
Treylon Burks is arguably the best wide receiver prospect in this year's draft class. He's been a phenomenal pass option during his time with the Alabama Crimson Tide and his skill set should translate to the NFL. He'd be a great addition to the Vikings' offense, as Burks would be a solid pass option for Kirk Cousins.
Not to mention, Treylon Burks would be a strong third option in the offense until Adam Thielen leaves or retires. Justin Jefferson will remain the number one target in Minnesota, but acquiring Burks gives the Vikings a powerful pass offense that would be tough to stop.
2. Andrew Booth Jr.
Although Patrick Peterson re-signed with the Vikings, Minnesota would be wise to take a talented cornerback early in the 2022 NFL Draft. Andrew Booth Jr. is arguably the best cornerback in this year's class, which means the front office could reel in a legitimate playmaker for the secondary.
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The defense has plenty of talent to be excited about. After signing Za'Darius Smith to lead the way on the defensive line, Minnesota should look to improve the secondary as well. Drafting Andrew Booth Jr. gives the Vikings a nice, well-balanced defense that could compete with anybody in the league.
1. Kyle Hamilton
Many have Kyle Hamilton ranked as the top player overall in the draft. He's been a superstar talent during his time playing for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He's huge for his position (6-4, 220 lbs) and plays with a unique instinct that is un-teachable. The Vikings could find themselves selecting the best player in the draft without having to trade up and give up assets.
Similar to Andrew Booth Jr., Hamilton will bring stability to the secondary. The safety position is a bit of a concern for the Vikings, as Harrison Smith isn't the same player he used to be and Camryn Bynum is still developing as well. Kyle Hamilton brings star power to the safety position and could make Minnesota's defense one of the best in the league.