The Vikings usually ease their receivers into the offense, as they did with Stefon Diggs and Jefferson. The emergence of Smith-Marsette might not happen until a few games into the season, but there’s a chance he takes over as WR3 at some point in 2021.

Janarius Robinson

I think it would be fair to say someone could throw a dart at the defensive end section of the roster and any of the players could be picked as a potential head turner in 2021. D.J. Wonnum could step up in his sophomore year, the return of Stephen Weatherly could make a difference or one of the rookies could step into that role immediately.

Many fans and analysts have called for the team to consider using what they have left in cap space on the position, but from what I’ve heard the Vikings like what they have in terms of pass rushers.

My favorite of the youthful group is former Florida State DE Janarius Robinson. In terms of physical traits, Robinson is an absolute freak and bult to play the position. Although he wasn’t the most productive player throughout his career at FSU, he should still be looked at as a potential steal where he was drafted in the fourth round.

Robinson is good in the run game and has some solid pass rushing maneuvers. Pairing his traits with a coach that has a proven track record at developing pass rushers should only help him as he begins his NFL career.

Honorable mention: Kellen Mond

Look, I know Kirk Cousins is the starting quarterback for the next two years, but that doesn’t mean the Vikings should feel comfortable at the position. It was time to find a succession plan to Cousins and I believe they might have found that in Kellen Mond.

It’s unlikely that fans will get to see Mond outside of the preseason, but this gives them something to be excited about when watching the three games before the regular season kicks off.

Mond had a prolific career at Texas A&M and he has the chance to learn behind one of the better Vikings quarterbacks in the last few decades. I’ve heard nothing but good things about the former Aggie throughout OTAs and minicamp and it sounds as if each day has been better than the prior.

The Vikings needed to get a haul in the draft and throughout free agency to give Zimmer a team that’s ready to win now. They did exactly that, and on paper this team looks poised to make a deep run in the playoffs. Football isn’t played on paper though, so Vikings fans should buckle up for a fun season in 2021.

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