**Vikings’ 2025 NFL Draft Strategy: Trading Down and Addressing Key Needs**
The Minnesota Vikings had a surprisingly strong 2024 season, finishing second in the NFC North with 14 wins but falling short in the playoffs against the Los Angeles Rams. As they head into the offseason, the biggest question revolves around the quarterback position, with **Sam Darnold** potentially holding onto the starting job over **J.J. McCarthy**. However, the draft offers an opportunity to address other pressing needs.
Using the *Pro Football Network* mock draft simulator, let’s explore how the Vikings could approach the first three rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft. With only two picks—24th and 97th overall—after trading their second-rounder to the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024 for **Dallas Turner**, Minnesota faces a critical decision: trade down to recoup picks or trade up for a top prospect.
### **Round 1: Vikings Trade Down**
In this simulation, the first round takes an unexpected turn, with the Tennessee Titans selecting **Abdul Carter** first overall, followed by the Cleveland Browns taking **Shedeur Sanders** and the New York Giants grabbing **Cam Ward**. **Travis Hunter** surprisingly falls to the Pittsburgh Steelers at 21st overall.
When the Vikings’ turn arrives at 24, the Browns propose a trade: Minnesota sends pick 24 to Cleveland in exchange for picks 33 and 67. The Vikings accept, opting to trade out of the first round and add an extra third-round selection.
### **Round 2: Vikings Target Defense**
With the first pick of the second round (33rd overall), the Vikings select **Walter Nolen**, a disruptive defensive tackle out of Ole Miss. While the Browns take **Derrick Harmon** (Oregon) with Minnesota’s original 24th pick and the Lions snag another defensive tackle at 28, the Vikings hope Nolen can bolster their defensive line.
### **Round 3: Adding Depth**
At 67th overall (acquired from Cleveland), the Vikings could target another key position, such as cornerback, safety, or offensive guard, to address their remaining needs.
This mock draft scenario highlights the Vikings’ potential strategy of trading down to accumulate picks while still landing impactful players. Whether they stick with this approach or make a bold move up the board, Minnesota’s draft decisions will shape their quest for a deeper playoff run in 2025.
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