There are an absurd amount of mock drafts available online at this time of year, outlining various scenarios. Maurice Jones-Drew, a former All-Pro running back for the Jaguars and NFL.com commentator, outlined nearly the perfect situation for the Minnesota Vikings in this one.
The top two picks in MJD’s mock draft are, as many anticipate, Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels. The Patriots then select J.J. McCarthy at No. 3 instead of Drake Maye. Some may find it shocking, but there has been talk that McCarthy—whom the NFL holds in great regard—may be among the top three. Next, without moving, the Cardinals choose Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick. Additionally, the Vikings take Maye at five after trading up with the Chargers.
For Kevin O’Connell, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, and the Vikings, this would be a huge win. McCarthy and Maye seem like the best matches for their offence, with Maye’s exceptional physical attributes giving him a theoretically greater ceiling. Gaining him at 5 instead of 3 would probably allow the Vikings to keep their 2025 first-round selection, which would be quite valuable. Barring a very hard deal by the Chargers, moves up six slots should be possible with picks 11, 23, and a future Day 2 pick.
Josh McCown, the quarterback coach for the Vikings, coached Maye in high school, and he might turn Minnesota into a Super Bowl contender in his debut season. If he can maintain consistent accuracy, he has all the makings of an NFL star and should be able to develop behind Sam Darnold at least through the start of 2024. Maye’s landing destination would be ideal in Minnesota, where he could collaborate with O’Connell and McCown and become a part of a talented offensive line that is strong at both the offensive tackle and skill positions.
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