The Minnesota Vikings appeared to have their sights set on a defensive target during Day 2 of the NFL Draft, but the Chicago Bears beat them to the punch.
The Bears struck a deal with the Buffalo Bills, swapping the No. 41 overall pick for two later second-round selections (Nos. 56 and 62). Chicago then used the 62nd pick to draft Texas A&M defensive tackle Shemar Turner — a player the Vikings were reportedly interested in.
Alec Lewis of The Athletic noted the development on social media, saying, “Bears snag Shemar Turner, who was never going to make it to No. 97 for the Vikings. Now have to see him twice a year.”
While Minnesota could have considered moving up to grab Turner, they entered the draft with just four total picks and either couldn’t find the right deal or didn’t feel it was worth the cost.
Turner has earned praise from draft analysts like Dane Brugler of The Athletic, who highlighted his quick first step, powerful hands, and aggressive mentality — although he’ll need to refine his discipline at the next level. Over the past two seasons at Texas A&M, Turner tallied 69 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, eight sacks, and three forced fumbles.
Adding Turner would have been a major boost to a Vikings defensive line that already welcomed veteran standouts Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave this offseason.
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