Vikings Pull Off the Ultimate Heist in Wild All-Trades Mock Draft – Are They Stealing an Entire Draft Class?

Leave it to Bill Barnwell to break the draft system in the most thrilling way possible. ESPN’s annual all-trades mock draft is back, and as always, it’s anything but conventional. The rules don’t apply, and in this chaotic draft universe, the Minnesota Vikings managed to pull off a major win.

In a surprising but smart move, the Vikings traded back in the draft rather than reaching for a pick. They shipped their No. 24 pick to the New York Giants in exchange for picks 34 (2nd round), 99 (3rd round), and 105 (4th round). This trade gave the Vikings two extra Day 2 picks and an early Day 3 selection—adding valuable capital to a team that started the draft with only four picks.

While it may not grab headlines, this trade significantly boosts the Vikings’ depth. The drop from No. 24 to No. 34 in this draft is minimal, and Minnesota isn’t in desperate need of a pick in the mid-20s range. After a surprising 14-3 season, the Vikings are entering 2025 with J.J. McCarthy poised for the future, a solid offensive line, and a revamped defense featuring Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave. However, they lack depth, youth, and draft capital—exactly what this trade helps address.

Barnwell perfectly captured their situation: “With a league-low four picks in this draft, the Vikings need to find ways to add extra capital, especially since they were the oldest team in the league last season.” By trading back, the Vikings gained extra resources without jeopardizing their future.

Though an all-trades mock draft is far from realistic, this trade feels like a move that could actually work in the real world. If this were to happen, Vikings fans would likely be thrilled with the extra draft capital. The team is now in a stronger position to address multiple needs heading into 2025, potentially adding talent like cornerback Benjamin Morrison (Notre Dame) in the second round or defensive tackle Jordan Phillips (Maryland) in the third.

While this may be a fantasy draft scenario, the trade holds real potential for strengthening the Vikings’ roster.