The Minnesota Vikings enter the 2025 NFL Draft without any urgent roster holes, which makes projecting their first-round pick a bit more intriguing for draft analysts. While there are a few needs to address, none are pressing—leaving room for interpretation and surprise.
General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has shown a distinct drafting approach in recent years, and there are signs that his strategy might differ from the consensus seen in current mock drafts. This week alone, 49 mock drafts were analyzed, and nearly half predicted the Vikings would target a safety in the first round.
Mock Draft Highlights:
Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State
- Nick Baumgardner (The Athletic), Thor Nystrom (Fantasy Life)
Zabel is a versatile, high-IQ offensive lineman known for his strength, flexibility, and explosiveness. While he may lack ideal length for an NFL tackle, his impact on the interior line is undeniable.
Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss
- Glenn Erby (Eagles Wire, Ravens Wire), Hayden Winks (Underdog Fantasy)
Nolen would bolster the Vikings’ interior defense. The All-American posted career highs in tackles (48), sacks (6.5), and other key stats in 2024, showcasing disruptive ability at the line of scrimmage.
Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State
- Ian Valentino (The 33rd Team), Matt Verderame (Sports Illustrated)
With added depth from free agency, the Vikings could use a physical, press-man corner like Thomas to elevate Brian Flores’ defensive schemes and offer coverage versatility.
Malaki Starks, S, Georgia
- Multiple outlets including CBS Sports, Fantasy Pros, The 33rd Team, and others
Starks is widely regarded as one of the top talents in the draft. After losing Cam Bynum in free agency, the Vikings may look to replenish their secondary with Starks’ elite range, instincts, and playmaking ability.
In short, while analysts continue to flood mocks with safety picks—particularly Malaki Starks—don’t be surprised if Adofo-Mensah steers in a different direction on draft night.
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