With a limited number of draft picks in 2025, every selection made by the Minnesota Vikings becomes even more crucial for their future. This year, the Vikings only have four picks in the NFL Draft, and many experts believe they will focus on selecting a defensive player. Mock drafts commonly predict the team will target either a defensive back or an interior defensive lineman in the first round.
As rookies prepare for their 30 pre-draft visits, the Vikings have scheduled one with a player who could contribute in multiple roles on defense. On Monday, a source informed The Draft Network’s Ryan Fowler that Kentucky defensive back Zion Childress has planned a 30-visit with Minnesota, with a trip to the Houston Texans also on the agenda. Childress is known as a versatile secondary player who has played over 850 snaps at nickelback, in the box, and at free safety during his college career.
Childress began his collegiate career at Texas State before transferring to Kentucky for his final three years. In his last season with the Wildcats, he recorded 55 tackles, a career-high six tackles for loss, two pass deflections, one forced fumble, and one sack in 12 games.
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He is projected to be a day-three pick in the draft. What stands out most about Childress is his flexibility to play both linebacker and safety. His experience as a high school quarterback has also contributed to his high football IQ, which helps him read quarterbacks’ strategies.
Minnesota’s defense under coordinator Brian Flores is centered around finding versatile players, which makes Childress a good fit as either a safety or outside linebacker. However, he would likely need to earn a roster spot through special teams play, particularly on kickoff coverage.
The Vikings’ day-three picks are especially significant, as two of their four selections fall on that day. While the team may explore trades, identifying potential hidden gems in the draft will be equally important.
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