***OFFICIAL*** 2013 MINNESOTA VIKINGS SEASON THREAD (1 Viewer)

[Andy Dufresne]

I still think that if the top 3 QB's are gone, they will be looking to trade in the 1st round.. Spillman's already said more then once he wants more draft picks..

Every team in the league wants more picks in this draft. Meaning very few want to give up picks in it.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

McCarron's ball velocity at the combine was 53 mph. Shaw's was 50 mph. Ponder's was at 51 or 52 mph if I remember correctly.

I don't want to see Vikings history repeating itself.

Ponder's problem isn't velocity...it is that he can't anticipate anyone getting open - he doesn't throw until he sees them open.

 

[mr roboto]

McCarron's ball velocity at the combine was 53 mph. Shaw's was 50 mph. Ponder's was at 51 or 52 mph if I remember correctly.

I don't want to see Vikings history repeating itself.

Ponder's problem isn't velocity...it is that he can't anticipate anyone getting open - he doesn't throw until he sees them open.

This. His velocity is fine, not exceptional but fine. He just does not have the anticipation for the vision to be the starting quarterback in the NFL.

 

[Donnybrook]

McCarron's ball velocity at the combine was 53 mph. Shaw's was 50 mph. Ponder's was at 51 or 52 mph if I remember correctly.

I don't want to see Vikings history repeating itself.

Ponder's problem isn't velocity...it is that he can't anticipate anyone getting open - he doesn't throw until he sees them open.

Arm strength is also a problem. There is very little zip on his passes. I think he is/was hesistant to make throws in to tight coverage because of it. I think that was the big difference between him and Cassel last year. Cassel wouldn't hesistate, right or wrong, to make those throws.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

From National Football Post:

Nick Saban is a big believer in the quarterback that's started for him the past three seasons.

While quarterbacks Johnny Manziel, Teddy Bridgewater, Blake Bortles and Derek Carr have gotten most of the attention from draft analysts, the Alabama head coach said NFL teams would be doing themselves a disservice by picking them ahead of A.J. McCarron.

“I think anybody that doesn’t take A.J. in one of those earlier rounds is going to make a huge mistake, because I think he’s going to be a very, very good player,” Saban told ESPN.

McCarron was a three-year starter for the Crimson Tide and led his team to two national championships in 2011 and 2012. Though he fell short of a national championship appearance a season ago, McCarron threw for 3,063 yards and 28 touchdowns.

Saban believes McCarron will make whichever team drafts him thankful of the decision.

“First of all, he has all the athletic talent to make all the throws that he needs to make at the next level," Saban said. "Guys who can make quick decisions, process the information and throw the ball accurately are the guys that usually end up being pretty good NFL quarterbacks.”

Not that I agree with it just because Saban says so, but what he says in the bold, is exactly what Ponder does not have.

 

[Biabreakable]

I don't get the Jerome Simpson love from the team. I don't think he's a guy you have on a successful team.

Simpson is consistently the best blocking WR on the team.

Norv Turner likes the vertical passing game to stretch the defense, Simpson is going to get looks there off of play action.

I can hear the groans of Patterson owners already when Simpson is getting targets they wish Patterson would be getting.

Zimmer is familiar with Simpson who sucked up to the coach during the offseason. I think he will hold Simpson and all players accountable for their actions and they would not have signed SImpson if they did not believe he was a guy who could help the Vikings be successful in 2014.

 

[Donnybrook]

From National Football Post:

Nick Saban is a big believer in the quarterback that's started for him the past three seasons.

While quarterbacks Johnny Manziel, Teddy Bridgewater, Blake Bortles and Derek Carr have gotten most of the attention from draft analysts, the Alabama head coach said NFL teams would be doing themselves a disservice by picking them ahead of A.J. McCarron.

“I think anybody that doesn’t take A.J. in one of those earlier rounds is going to make a huge mistake, because I think he’s going to be a very, very good player,” Saban told ESPN.

McCarron was a three-year starter for the Crimson Tide and led his team to two national championships in 2011 and 2012. Though he fell short of a national championship appearance a season ago, McCarron threw for 3,063 yards and 28 touchdowns.

Saban believes McCarron will make whichever team drafts him thankful of the decision.

“First of all, he has all the athletic talent to make all the throws that he needs to make at the next level," Saban said. "Guys who can make quick decisions, process the information and throw the ball accurately are the guys that usually end up being pretty good NFL quarterbacks.”

Not that I agree with it just because Saban says so, but what he says in the bold, is exactly what Ponder does not have.

I have a hard time projecting what McCarron and Manziel will be like in the pros. There is no parity in college football. They both have All-Americans olinemen playing in front of them. The time these guys have to throw or not throw is ridiculous. QBs are not getting that much time to throw even on the best teams in the NFL.

 

[Biabreakable]

I saw this come across my twitter feed a little while ago, and it was confirmed by Ben Goessling over at ESPN: the Vikings have re-signed free agent guard Charlie Johnson. Johnson has been considered by many here at Daily Norseman to be the weak link of the offensive line, and according to Pro Football Focus, he was ranked 103 out of a possible 144 guards in the NFL last year, garnering a -5.4 overall grade.

Despite that, the Vikings signed him to a 2-year, $5 Million deal ($2.5 Million per year), although it remains to be seen how much of it is guaranteed. If you remember, Johnson came over from the Colts and was forced into the Left Tackle position when the Vikings cut Bryant McKinnie before the 2011 season. He struggled mightily, but after the Vikings drafted Matt Kalil, he slid over to left guard in 2012 and arguably had a sub-par year, despite helping pave the way for Peterson's 2,000 yard season. His play was roughly equal in 2013, but the free agent market for guards this year was perilously thin. It makes sense to resign him as insurance when the Vikings are unlikely to take a guard in the draft with a high round pick to plug and play as a starter, when there are still so many other pressing needs like quarterback, linebacker and cornerback.

Hey, on the upside, there's always something to be said for a little offensive line continuity. If Charlie Johnson is the starter in 2014, we'll have had essentially the same offensive line for 3 years in a row. http://www.dailynorseman.com/2014/3/15/5512832/vikings-re-sign-guard-charlie-johnson

Hopefully Baca will be able to push Charlie for the starting job this season.

The offense looks pretty set everywhere except for QB backup RB and WR 5.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

http://q.usatoday.com/2014/03/16/teddy-bridgewater-meets-with-the-minnesota-vikings/

NFL draft Teddy Bridgewater meets with the Minnesota VikingsBy Brent Sobleski

The Minnesota Vikings’ search for a quarterback continues. The team is meeting with Louisville QB Teddy Bridgewater Sunday.

Ian Rapoport ✔@RapSheetFollow

#Louisville QB Teddy Bridgewater is meeting privately with #Vikings staff members as we speak. His Pro Day is tomorrow, live on @nflnetwork

1:40 PM - 16 Mar 2014

Bridgewater is one of four prospects in the discussion to be the top quarterback selected in May’s NFL draft. The others are Fresno State’s Derek Carr, Texas A&M’s Johnny Manziel and UCF’s Blake Bortles.

NFL draft: Top 10 quarterbacks

Of the four, Bridgewater is often referred to as the most pro-ready quarterback. Bridgewater’s football intelligence and accuracy set him apart:

“Playing the position, you have to be able to handle a lot,” Bridgewater
http://www.houstonchronicle.com/spo...t-take-Teddy-5317780.php?t=0cd0a78cb9cba496f0told the Houston Chronicle’s Jerome Solomon
http://www.houstonchronicle.com/spo...t-take-Teddy-5317780.php?t=0cd0a78cb9cba496f0. “I showed I’m able to handle a heavy load and a ton of responsibility, not only from a quarterback’s standpoint, but from learning what a coach is thinking and trying to be that coach on the field. You have to play smart to do that, you have to know the entire offense, where everybody is supposed to be, know defenses and what they are trying to do and know what the coach expects from you.”
But those two qualities don’t necessarily make him the best fit for the Vikings.

The Vikings’ new head coach, Mike Zimmer, hired Norv Turner as the team’s offensive coordinator. Turner’s system is based on a vertical passing attack that requires a quarterback to throw to every area of the field.

As talented as Bridgewater is, his greatest weakness is an inability to consistently stretch the field.

Bridgewater’s accuracy dropped off dramatically when he threw the ball 20 or more yards down field. He completed only 50.8 percent of his passes in those instances, according to Rotoworld’s Greg Peshak. At every other level, Bridgewater completed at least 68.5 percent of his passes.

Of the previously mentioned quarterbacks, only Carr had a lower completion percentage on deep passes.

In the end, all of the Vikings’ preparation could prove moot. Even though Bridgewater isn’t an ideal fit for the system, he may not even be available with the eighth-overall selection.



MORE
:
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2014/02/18/teddy-bridgewater/5591053/Teddy Bridgewater makes his case to be No. 1 overall
http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2014/02/18/teddy-bridgewater/5591053/
The Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, Cleveland Browns and Oakland Raiders select in the Top 5 and each will consider Bridgewater.

Dane Brugler@dpbruglerFollow

The teams that pass on QB Teddy Bridgewater in the top-3 are going to regret that decision. Especially if a team takes Manziel over him

10:04 PM - 14 Mar 2014

The Vikings may be better served to spend more time with Manziel or a second-round option like LSU’s Zach Mettenberger. Both are better throwing the ball down the field. The availability of both is also more likely than Bridgewater. They can then pair either with the recently re-signed Matt Cassel.

Bridgewater, meanwhile, will be on full display for the entire NFL when he participates in Louisville’s pro day Monday.

 

[mr roboto]

I would LOVE IT if Teddy fell to 8 but that's a long shot.

 

[Donnybrook]

@dpbrugler

Upcoming QB Pro Days:

Monday - Teddy Bridgewater

Wednesday - Blake Bortles

Thursday - Derek Carr

March 27 - Johnny Manziel

(Saving the best for last March 28 - Garrett Gilbert )

 

[Donnybrook]

Interesting debate on Zack Mettenberger: http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2014/03/draft-debate-zach-mettenberger/

 

[Biabreakable]

MARCH 17, 2014,by CARL KNOWLES

Last week Darren Sproles was “all the rage” when Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported that multiple teams had expressed an interest in the ultra-explosive multi-purpose running back. Originally expected to be released by the Saints, Sproles was instead traded to the Philadelphia Eagles for a fifth round pick.

Norv Turner and Sproles had success together in San Diego for four seasons, so naturally the Minnesota Vikings were among the teams linked to the speculation and trade rumors.

The Vikings obviously weren’t interested enough to offer their fifth round pick for Sproles… and so, with the departure of Toby Gerhart to Jacksonville via free agency, Adrian Peterson could be looking at a heavy work load as it stands.

In a recent interview with KFAN’s Paul Allen at the NFL Scouting Combine, Norv said, “I would expect Adrian Peterson to catch 50/60 balls next year.”

Norv wants to get Adrian touches in open space, and one way to accomplish that is to throw him the ball more often. In 2013, Adrian only caught 29 balls for 171 yards and 1 touchdown.

Adrain certainly has the make-you-miss moves and the breakaway speed of a smaller scat-back type of player, but he also has the size and power to run you over.

Even though Adrian has caught over 40 passes twice in his career, he is not widely recognized as a smooth open field pass catcher. At age 28, Peterson might need to flaunt a new element to his craft if he wants to maximize his potential and production in Norv’s new offensive system.

60 receptions is a hefty goal to put on Adrian’s shoulders. Just how realistic is that expectation?

Last season, under offensive coordinator Norv Turner, the Cleveland Browns used a committee of backs to split up the work load. Chris Ogbonnaya, Fozzy Whittaker, Trent Richardson, Edwin Baker, Willis McGahee and Bobby Rainey accounted for 96 receptions out of the backfield. Certainly the Vikings will not need to rotate a “hodge podge” of running backs the way the Browns did, which should allow Adrian to absorb the bulk of that pass catching production. Yes, 60 reception is very possible.

A spread offense that regularly dumps the ball off to Adrian and Cordarelle Patterson, yet also takes some shots down field to Jennings, Rudolph, Simpson, Wright and Patterson is enough to get this rookie blogger all spiked-up for some football.

As you can tell, I’m not terribly disappointed that the Vikings weren’t the highest bidder for Sproles, or that Toby won’t be wearing purple on Sundays. Instead, I’m intrigued to say the least, to see Norv challenge and push Adrian to a whole new level.

The Vikings will not need to employ the running back by committee approach in 2014, but they will be eager for a dynamic play-maker to step up and grab the number two spot behind Adrian. GM Rick Spielman even hinted at the possibility of drafting a running back during a conference call last week.

I am not 100% against the idea of drafting a running back, however, I would like to see the young backs currently on the roster get a quality opportunity in preseason to fight for that backup RB position. Bradley Randle and Zach Line have become fan favorites and it would be nice to see those guys step up in a big way during preseason. Both should fit well in Norv’s offense, and both should give Matt Asiata some competition.

Until that top backup running back emerges… I will just continue to dream about a throw-me-the-rock season for Adrian Peterson. http://vikingsterritory.com/2014/analysis/power-back-to-scat-back-peterson-is-ready-to-do-it-all

Also a really nice article about Griffen today: http://vikingsterritory.com/2014/analysis/minnesota-vikings-break-down-scouting-everson-griffen

 

[Donnybrook]

So far, Rick Spielman has been very consistent in his approach to free agency. He wants young free agents. The older free agents are getting cheap short contracts. Sproles makes sense if your team has a QB and can a SB contender in the next two years. Vikings aren't there yet.

Vikings might look at Freeman or a similar back later in draft but I still think Asiata is a decent backup. Peterson doesn't have natural hands but Asiata receiving skills are underrated.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

So far, Rick Spielman has been very consistent in his approach to free agency. He wants young free agents. The older free agents are getting cheap short contracts. Sproles makes sense if your team has a QB and can a SB contender in the next two years. Vikings aren't there yet.

Vikings might look at Freeman or a similar back later in draft but I still think Asiata is a decent backup. Peterson doesn't have natural hands but Asiata receiving skills are underrated.

Banyard isn't too bad as a pass catcher either.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Tom Pelissero‏@TomPelissero45 mins

#Vikings contingent at Bortles pro day includes Mike Zimmer, Rick Spielman, Norv Turner.

----------------

Tom PelisseroVerified account‏@TomPelissero38m

Bortles chatting with #Vikings officials before workout. http://instagram.com/p/lu88OfLrxv/

 

[skol asylum]

For some reason a video I watched of a Bortles interview one day reminded me of Will Ferrell.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

I anticipate them working out about every QB in this draft...it is what they need and that way they don't tip their hand to who they like...

Matt Barrows ‏@mattbarrows 51m

David Fales says he has a workout with the Vikings this weekend.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

For some reason a video I watched of a Bortles interview one day reminded me of Will Ferrell.

Help me Jesus! Help me Jewish God! Help me Allah! AAAAAHHH! Help me Tom Cruise! Tom Cruise, use your witchcraft on me to get the fire off me!

 

[BigJim®]

Sort of surprised the Vikes were outbid by the cowboys for Melton (if that's what happened) since their 4 year/$29M deal could be worth as little as 1 year/$2.5M according to PFT. That is a great bargain for Melton.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Worst case draft scenario, IMO?

Bortles

Watkins

Clowney

Mack

Bridgewater

Barr

Mosley

Then what? It doesn't seem they're too high on Manziel so...Evans, CB, Aaron Donald, Clinton-Dix?

Assume they can't trade down.

 

[jhexel]

Definitely worst-case scenario...they've made a ton of investment to the D-line between bringing in Floyd last year and committing to Robison and Griffen going forward. I can't see them adding there at #8.

If they don't like what they see in Johnny Football - I'd say they focus on secondary - between Gilbert, or Dennard / Pryor or Ha-Ha.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

But they made a pretty big offer to Melton. Zimmer likes rotating linemen so Donald isn't out of the question.

 

[snogger]

But they made a pretty big offer to Melton. Zimmer likes rotating linemen so Donald isn't out of the question.

Vikings Sign Former Saints DT Tom JohnsonSeems they signed a few DT's now in house and out that I think they go elsewhere with the 1st round.

I think if Manziel falls to them, even though he doesn't fit Norv's game, they' still take him and let him spend the first half of 2014 watching and learning. Then, if Cassel hasn't taken them to better then 4-4, let it rip with Manziel..

Just can't get the out of my head of having Manziel, Peterson and Patterson running around.

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Well as long as they got Jon Thompson ...er Tom Johnson...

 

[skol asylum]

And now another lineman from the Bears Corey Wootton.

 

[Donnybrook]

Anybody besides me have the Vikings taking a TE in the draft. I know they have bigger needs but everytime I do a mock using the Fan Speak draft simulator I usually take a TE. Mostly because I think Jace Amaro is good value at 2.10 and ASJ is a steal at 3.10.

 

[cstu]

I anticipate them working out about every QB in this draft...it is what they need and that way they don't tip their hand to who they like...

Matt Barrows ‏@mattbarrows 51m

David Fales says he has a workout with the Vikings this weekend.

Fales seems like a good fit with a receiver like Patterson but with Norv there's about a 0.001% chance that the Vikings would draft him.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Norv Turner on hand to watch Derek Carr's pro day.

NFL.com/channel media types who have been following the rookie QBs around called him easily the most impressive thrower they have seen.

Carr worked under center (no pads, but nobody does at pro days or combine) and threw 15 each at short, medium, long and sideline.

He completed 66 of 72 throws. Completed first 43. Media types called the performance precise and near perfect.

NFL.coms Paul Burmeister said "he didn't see a single throw that made you say 'where did that come from' or 'that wasnt very good'.".

 

[snogger]

Norv Turner on hand to watch Derek Carr's pro day.

NFL.com/channel media types who have been following the rookie QBs around called him easily the most impressive thrower they have seen.

Carr worked under center (no pads, but nobody does at pro days or combine) and threw 15 each at short, medium, long and sideline.

He completed 66 of 72 throws. Completed first 43. Media types called the performance precise and near perfect.

NFL.coms Paul Burmeister said "he didn't see a single throw that made you say 'where did that come from' or 'that wasnt very good'.".

I don't think anyone has ever questioned his arm or accuracy.. The issue I've seen, granted from only one game, and others have mentioned is his "Happy feet" when pressure is on.

If he can improve on that, then he has a chance to be a pretty good QB.. But that is a big IF..

 

[Biabreakable]

Anybody besides me have the Vikings taking a TE in the draft. I know they have bigger needs but everytime I do a mock using the Fan Speak draft simulator I usually take a TE. Mostly because I think Jace Amaro is good value at 2.10 and ASJ is a steal at 3.10.

No argument that those players might be value for the Vikings. I believe Rudolph is in a contract year as well.

Rick Spielman has said they feel set at the position and I do not see his comments as being a smoke screen.

The Vikings have so many needs at so many positions, that you’d expect general manager Rick Spielman to be watching every single combine participant closely. However, Spielman was seen reviewing his notes and gathering other information about players while one certain group were on the field. And that was the tight ends.

“We have pretty good tight ends, so I wasn’t really focusing on that,” Spielman said. “There’s some depth at that position. I know there’s some guys that have some character issues at that position. But we’ve got them all graded and stuff. We’ve kind of focused on some other areas.”
Spielman definitely has a point. Minnesota has quite a good group of tight ends right now. Here is the current group on the roster:

• Kyle Rudolph
  
• John Carlson
• Rhett Ellison
• Chase Ford

With those gentlemen available for the next season and looking healthy, there isn’t much reason to pursue one in free agency or the draft. Each of the team’s tight ends have stepped in at a certain point in the season and played at a reasonable level. Tight ends should be showcased in the Vikings new offense, so their role should be expanded pretty well.

Minnesota should be looking to fill spots at other positions this offseason. With free agency opening soon, it should get pretty exciting for fans waiting for some activity with their team. http://thevikingage.com/2014/02/27/rick-spielman-focused-tight-ends-draft/

 

[Biabreakable]

I anticipate them working out about every QB in this draft...it is what they need and that way they don't tip their hand to who they like...

Matt Barrows ‏@mattbarrows 51m

David Fales says he has a workout with the Vikings this weekend.

Fales seems like a good fit with a receiver like Patterson but with Norv there's about a 0.001% chance that the Vikings would draft him.

Why?

Considering Fales will likely be a later draft pick I could see adding him to the roster being a potential value pick with the Vikings having such a need at the position. Even if Fales were the 2nd QB the Vikings draft in 2014.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

Anybody besides me have the Vikings taking a TE in the draft. I know they have bigger needs but everytime I do a mock using the Fan Speak draft simulator I usually take a TE. Mostly because I think Jace Amaro is good value at 2.10 and ASJ is a steal at 3.10.

No argument that those players might be value for the Vikings. I believe Rudolph is in a contract year as well.

Rick Spielman has said they feel set at the position and I do not see his comments as being a smoke screen.

The Vikings have so many needs at so many positions, that you’d expect general manager Rick Spielman to be watching every single combine participant closely. However, Spielman was seen reviewing his notes and gathering other information about players while one certain group were on the field. And that was the tight ends.

“We have pretty good tight ends, so I wasn’t really focusing on that,” Spielman said. “There’s some depth at that position. I know there’s some guys that have some character issues at that position. But we’ve got them all graded and stuff. We’ve kind of focused on some other areas.”
Spielman definitely has a point. Minnesota has quite a good group of tight ends right now. Here is the current group on the roster:

• Kyle Rudolph
  
• John Carlson
• Rhett Ellison
• Chase Ford

With those gentlemen available for the next season and looking healthy, there isn’t much reason to pursue one in free agency or the draft. Each of the team’s tight ends have stepped in at a certain point in the season and played at a reasonable level. Tight ends should be showcased in the Vikings new offense, so their role should be expanded pretty well.

Minnesota should be looking to fill spots at other positions this offseason. With free agency opening soon, it should get pretty exciting for fans waiting for some activity with their team. http://thevikingage.com/2014/02/27/rick-spielman-focused-tight-ends-draft/

Except Carlson isn't there anymore. I really like Ellison even though he struggled a bit last year. If the value is there, I think they might take one, but I just think there are too many holes in other places to draft one high.

 

[Biabreakable]

Anybody besides me have the Vikings taking a TE in the draft. I know they have bigger needs but everytime I do a mock using the Fan Speak draft simulator I usually take a TE. Mostly because I think Jace Amaro is good value at 2.10 and ASJ is a steal at 3.10.

No argument that those players might be value for the Vikings. I believe Rudolph is in a contract year as well.

Rick Spielman has said they feel set at the position and I do not see his comments as being a smoke screen.

The Vikings have so many needs at so many positions, that you’d expect general manager Rick Spielman to be watching every single combine participant closely. However, Spielman was seen reviewing his notes and gathering other information about players while one certain group were on the field. And that was the tight ends.

“We have pretty good tight ends, so I wasn’t really focusing on that,” Spielman said. “There’s some depth at that position. I know there’s some guys that have some character issues at that position. But we’ve got them all graded and stuff. We’ve kind of focused on some other areas.”
Spielman definitely has a point. Minnesota has quite a good group of tight ends right now. Here is the current group on the roster:

• Kyle Rudolph
  
• John Carlson
• Rhett Ellison
• Chase Ford

With those gentlemen available for the next season and looking healthy, there isn’t much reason to pursue one in free agency or the draft. Each of the team’s tight ends have stepped in at a certain point in the season and played at a reasonable level. Tight ends should be showcased in the Vikings new offense, so their role should be expanded pretty well.

Minnesota should be looking to fill spots at other positions this offseason. With free agency opening soon, it should get pretty exciting for fans waiting for some activity with their team. http://thevikingage.com/2014/02/27/rick-spielman-focused-tight-ends-draft/

Except Carlson isn't there anymore. I really like Ellison even though he struggled a bit last year. If the value is there, I think they might take one, but I just think there are too many holes in other places to draft one high.

Yes Carlson had not been cut yet at the time that Spielman made this statement.

I do not expect TE to be a pick in the 1st 3 rounds for the Vikings because I think they are committed to Rudolph long term. If they do draft a TE that could indicate that they do not intend to re-sign Rudolph after this season. But I think they like Rudolph a lot and plan for him to be their guy for several more seasons. Ellison is certainly good enough as a blocking/HBack TE.

 

[sports_fan]

Size comparison of the Metrodome and new stadium

http://www.vikings.com/news/article-1/A-Side-By-Side-Comparison-New-Vikings-Stadium-vs-The-Metrodome/63dd5374-5653-4d4a-ad76-43b678c506e3

 

[Donnybrook]

...I do not expect TE to be a pick in the 1st 3 rounds for the Vikings because I think they are committed to Rudolph long term. If they do draft a TE that could indicate that they do not intend to re-sign Rudolph after this season. But I think they like Rudolph a lot and plan for him to be their guy for several more seasons. Ellison is certainly good enough as a blocking/HBack TE.

I really don't expect them to either. I am drafting a TE using the simulator probably either because the site's big board is devaluing the TEs in the 2-3 spot or my evaluations are screwed up. (Probably the latter) Another player I hoping to get at 2.10 is UCLA guard Su'a-Filo but he is often already gone.

Another player I often draft for the Vikings in the later rounds is RB Terrance West. I like him because he is usually avaiable after the first wave of backs are off the board and is somewhat like Gehart. A power back with the abilty to catch the ball out of the backfield. Who do you guys like to see as a good fit as Vikings backup running back?

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Size comparison of the Metrodome and new stadium

http://www.vikings.com/news/article-1/A-Side-By-Side-Comparison-New-Vikings-Stadium-vs-The-Metrodome/63dd5374-5653-4d4a-ad76-43b678c506e3

Someone was taking the other day about what the new place's nickname should be.I like simply "The Ship". Kind of like "The Bank".

 

[Biabreakable]

...I do not expect TE to be a pick in the 1st 3 rounds for the Vikings because I think they are committed to Rudolph long term. If they do draft a TE that could indicate that they do not intend to re-sign Rudolph after this season. But I think they like Rudolph a lot and plan for him to be their guy for several more seasons. Ellison is certainly good enough as a blocking/HBack TE.

I really don't expect them to either. I am drafting a TE using the simulator probably either because the site's big board is devaluing the TEs in the 2-3 spot or my evaluations are screwed up. (Probably the latter) Another player I hoping to get at 2.10 is UCLA guard Su'a-Filo but he is often already gone.

Another player I often draft for the Vikings in the later rounds is RB Terrance West. I like him because he is usually avaiable after the first wave of backs are off the board and is somewhat like Gehart. A power back with the abilty to catch the ball out of the backfield. Who do you guys like to see as a good fit as Vikings backup running back?

I like West and I think he could be worth a pick for the Vikings in the later rounds for RB depth. I also do not see the Vikings addressing RB in the 1st 3 rounds which I expect will be focused on QB or defense (especially LB).

I thought Joe Banyard looked pretty good last pre-season but I doubt the Vikings consider him the direct back up to Peterson but for more of a COP role. I think Asiata showed he is nothing special as a back up RB and hopefully the Vikings will upgrade the position from him at least. Andre Williams might be another option there. I think it will depend on who falls in the draft as I do not expect the Vikings to make a large investment at the position like they did when they traded up for Gerhart.

 

[Gopher State]

Anybody besides me have the Vikings taking a TE in the draft. I know they have bigger needs but everytime I do a mock using the Fan Speak draft simulator I usually take a TE. Mostly because I think Jace Amaro is good value at 2.10 and ASJ is a steal at 3.10.

No argument that those players might be value for the Vikings. I believe Rudolph is in a contract year as well.

Rick Spielman has said they feel set at the position and I do not see his comments as being a smoke screen.

The Vikings have so many needs at so many positions, that you’d expect general manager Rick Spielman to be watching every single combine participant closely. However, Spielman was seen reviewing his notes and gathering other information about players while one certain group were on the field. And that was the tight ends.

“We have pretty good tight ends, so I wasn’t really focusing on that,” Spielman said. “There’s some depth at that position. I know there’s some guys that have some character issues at that position. But we’ve got them all graded and stuff. We’ve kind of focused on some other areas.”
Spielman definitely has a point. Minnesota has quite a good group of tight ends right now. Here is the current group on the roster:

• Kyle Rudolph
  
• John Carlson
• Rhett Ellison
• Chase Ford

With those gentlemen available for the next season and looking healthy, there isn’t much reason to pursue one in free agency or the draft. Each of the team’s tight ends have stepped in at a certain point in the season and played at a reasonable level. Tight ends should be showcased in the Vikings new offense, so their role should be expanded pretty well.

Minnesota should be looking to fill spots at other positions this offseason. With free agency opening soon, it should get pretty exciting for fans waiting for some activity with their team. http://thevikingage.com/2014/02/27/rick-spielman-focused-tight-ends-draft/

Carlson signed with AZ on 3/7/2014, he is no longer a Viking

 

[Biabreakable]

Anybody besides me have the Vikings taking a TE in the draft. I know they have bigger needs but everytime I do a mock using the Fan Speak draft simulator I usually take a TE. Mostly because I think Jace Amaro is good value at 2.10 and ASJ is a steal at 3.10.

No argument that those players might be value for the Vikings. I believe Rudolph is in a contract year as well.

Rick Spielman has said they feel set at the position and I do not see his comments as being a smoke screen.

The Vikings have so many needs at so many positions, that you’d expect general manager Rick Spielman to be watching every single combine participant closely. However, Spielman was seen reviewing his notes and gathering other information about players while one certain group were on the field. And that was the tight ends.

“We have pretty good tight ends, so I wasn’t really focusing on that,” Spielman said. “There’s some depth at that position. I know there’s some guys that have some character issues at that position. But we’ve got them all graded and stuff. We’ve kind of focused on some other areas.”
Spielman definitely has a point. Minnesota has quite a good group of tight ends right now. Here is the current group on the roster:

• Kyle Rudolph
  
• John Carlson
• Rhett Ellison
• Chase Ford

With those gentlemen available for the next season and looking healthy, there isn’t much reason to pursue one in free agency or the draft. Each of the team’s tight ends have stepped in at a certain point in the season and played at a reasonable level. Tight ends should be showcased in the Vikings new offense, so their role should be expanded pretty well.

Minnesota should be looking to fill spots at other positions this offseason. With free agency opening soon, it should get pretty exciting for fans waiting for some activity with their team. http://thevikingage.com/2014/02/27/rick-spielman-focused-tight-ends-draft/

Carlson signed with AZ on 3/7/2014, he is no longer a Viking

Yes if you would read you would realize I know this. Someone else already pointed that out.

That does not change the fact that this is what he said.

 

[Biabreakable]

Nice article about Chase Ford for folks who may think the Vikings are not set at the TE position.

http://vikingsterritory.com/2014/analysis/roster-evaluation-te-chase-ford#more-5536

 

[Faust]

Rotoworld:

Vikings GM Rick Spielman said the team is in the market for running back depth.
Matt Asiata is currently lightly penciled in as the No. 2 behind Adrian Peterson. Zach Line, Joe Banyard, and Bradley Randle round out the depth chart. The free-agent market has a few capable runners still available, but it wouldn't be a surprise to see Spielman use a day-two pick on a running back. Asiata lacks lateral agility and burst and is best suited for No. 3 duties.

Source: St. Paul Pioneer Press

 

[Herb]

http://www.dailynorseman.com/2014/3/24/5541268/from-boom-to-bust-finding-the-right-quarterback

Great article on breaking down the traits of successful NFL QBs and how those traits are taken into consideration in the drafting process. It's kinda long, but his rankings are what grabbed my eye:

1. Derek Carr, Fresno State - score 28 out of 35

In what might come as a surprise, Derek Carr is the best prospect when it comes to successful quarterback traits. Derek Carr notches six out of seven traits, tied for the most of any prospect. He's only missing one positive trait: good pocket awareness. However, the good news is, it wasn't listed as a negative on his scouting reports either. So if history is a guide, Derek Carr should be a very good prospect. Interestingly enough, the most common negative trait among successful NFL quarterbacks is also one that Carr shares: lack of mobility. If there was one quarterback in this draft class that would appear to exhibit the most common traits of successful NFL quarterbacks, Derek Carr is it.

2. Jimmy Garoppolo, Eastern Illinois - score 27 out of 35

In what might come as another shocker, Garoppolo comes in as the 2nd best quarterback prospect. He not only has 5 out of the 7 traits above, but has the top 5 traits; giving him hands down the most valuable traits in common with the most successful quarterbacks in the NFL of any of the college prospects. Even better, the two missing traits (accuracy and ability to throw on the run) were not listed as negatives for him. That said, he's not a perfect prospect, and there are plenty of concerns about Garoppolo like questions about his level of competition in college, and the fact that he played in a spread offense which might hinder his ability to adjust to a pro-style offense. He also lacks deep ball accuracy, has small hands and has a somewhat awkward delivery. But the fact that he exhibits poise in the pocket, is able to read defenses and make smart decisions with the football, displays generally good arm strength, and is a good leader and competitor gives him the most similar traits to the most successful quarterbacks in the NFL. So, Jimmy Garappolo would be an excellent prospect in this draft and even better, most ranking sources and mock drafts have him going in the 2nd or 3rd round.

3. Teddy Bridgewater, Louisville - score 26 out of 35

Teddy Bridgewater has been hyped as one of the best quarterback prospects in the draft, although with an underwhelming combine and Pro Day performance he has fallen a bit in many rankings. And here he sits in 3rd place in the QB traits metric. Like Garoppolo, he also has 5 out of the 7 traits on the list above, but he has different positives. He's got everything on the list except: Good Arm Strength and Good Accuracy, and this was on display at his recent Pro Day too. Never-the-less, they aren't listed as negatives which is good and he hits on the majority of the positive traits, so Bridgewater should still be an elite quarterback prospect in the draft.

4. Aaron Murray, Georgia - score 25 out of 35

In what might come as a major shocker, Aaron Murray finds his way into the top 4 of quarterback prospects. Not only that, but he has 6 out of the 7 traits of successful NFL quarterbacks, tied with Derek Carr. The only trait he's missing is good arm strength, and the reason he falls this low is because it's also listed as a negative for him. If not for that, he might be the best prospect in the draft. But don't get too excited, because there is also the issue of his torn ACL and question marks about his ability to recover from such a devastating injury. Even if he didn't have the ACL injury he would still have question marks about his size, durability and deep ball accuracy. Never-the-less, getting a generally accurate, pocket passer who is a leader, can make smart decisions and read defenses, and who can throw on the run makes him one of the better prospects by these metrics. Obviously, these metrics are blind to the ACL injury, and there is almost no way an NFL team drafts him in the 1st round because of it. But his potential is through the roof and if he can overcome the injury, he could become a very good quarterback. He could also make for a very sneaky draft pick by the Vikings with miracle trainer Eric Sugarman on staff and his extensive experience rehabbing torn ACL injuries.

5. Blake Bortles, Central Florida - score 19 out of 35

Like Garoppolo and Bridgewater above, Bortles also has 5 out of the 7 traits on the list above, but he's missing a few of the more important traits: Good decision making and good arm strength, and arm strength is actually rated as a negative for him as well, which drops him a bit. He's being hyped as the number 1 quarterback in the draft right now after an impressive combine and pro day, and possessing 5 out of 7 traits of successful NFL quarterbacks is excellent. But he falls to 5th place in these metrics because of how important those two missing traits are. Never-the-less, he'll still make for a great prospect as an accurate passer that can read defenses with an ability to throw on the run. His natural leadership ability and prototypical size gives him potential and a high ceiling as well.

6. Zach Mettenberger, LSU - score 17 out of 35

Zach Mettenberger doesn't have many positive traits, only three out of the seven, but none of the seven are listed as a negative either. His strengths are his pocket awareness, arm strength and leadership. He'll need to show that he can read defenses and make good decisions while at the same time delivering an accurate ball, but if he can develop those skills he certainly has some promise as a prospect. There are some concerns about his maturity level and injury history though, so it's not likely that he'll be drafted in the 1stround.

7. Logan Thomas, Virgina Tech - score 10 out of 35

The last surprise on the list, Logan Thomas, has only a few of the seven traits, but just barely makes the list as none of the seven are listed as a negative. He exhibits good arm strength and is a competitive and natural leader. He also has prototypical size, thus making him something of a developmental prospect, but with a lot of room to grow. He will likely be drafted in the mid-rounds, but according to these metrics he has a lot of room for potential development.

 

[Donnybrook]

http://www.dailynorseman.com/2014/3/24/5541268/from-boom-to-bust-finding-the-right-quarterback

Interesting but I think there is some subjectivity in the assignment of grades in each of the 7 categories.Personally, I would have a hard time giving Carr a passing grade in the "reads defenses" category. I could be wrong but when I think of a QB that reads defenses I think of a QB that's willing to hold the ball and goes through his progressions. Fresno State did not require Carr to do that often. If anything they wanted him to get the ball out quickly. They were so many screen passes called in that offense it was not funny. Is throwing screen passes reading a defense or is that just executing a designed play?

People have this image of Carr being a big strong arm QB like Mathew Stafford but Fresno State had him executing a game plan like he was Alex Smith. It is evident in Carr's yards per attempt which was far below the other top QBs. Fresno State won a lot of games with Carr so it's hard to argue against their approach.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Fresno State won a lot of games with Carr so it's hard to argue against their approach.

Impossible to argue with your team (and qb) winning more games, hitting the top 10 in ranking. While increasing your passing attempts 150+, throwing for 5000yards (from4000) and 50tds (from 37)... and all the while decreasing your sacks from 27 to 11 and throwing only 8 picks. Its like picking on Tom Brady for throwing short and avoiding hits all the time, well not exactly but certainly you can see some merits to the approach .

 

[Donnybrook]

Fresno State won a lot of games with Carr so it's hard to argue against their approach.

Impossible to argue with your team (and qb) winning more games, hitting the top 10 in ranking. While increasing your passing attempts 150+, throwing for 5000yards (from4000) and 50tds (from 37)... and all the while decreasing your sacks from 27 to 11 and throwing only 8 picks. Its like picking on Tom Brady for throwing short and avoiding hits all the time, well not exactly but certainly you can see some merits to the approach .

Yes but the question is can he read defenses. He has a tendency to stare down his receivers. Can he adapted to playing in a offense that is not New England like?

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Fresno State won a lot of games with Carr so it's hard to argue against their approach.

Impossible to argue with your team (and qb) winning more games, hitting the top 10 in ranking. While increasing your passing attempts 150+, throwing for 5000yards (from4000) and 50tds (from 37)... and all the while decreasing your sacks from 27 to 11 and throwing only 8 picks. Its like picking on Tom Brady for throwing short and avoiding hits all the time, well not exactly but certainly you can see some merits to the approach .

Yes but the question is can he read defenses. He has a tendency to stare down his receivers. Can he adapted to playing in a offense that is not New England like?

You guys got Norv effing Turner.

He will tell you before hand if Carr can do it. You gents probably have less of a guessing game, in that respect, then almost anyone else who needs a QB right now.

Of the top 5-6 QB prospects, almost guaranteed that Norv has marked 3 or 4 as "do not draft" players. Yet they will still be gone by the end of round 2.

 

[Biabreakable]

http://www.dailynorseman.com/2014/3/24/5541268/from-boom-to-bust-finding-the-right-quarterback

Interesting but I think there is some subjectivity in the assignment of grades in each of the 7 categories.Personally, I would have a hard time giving Carr a passing grade in the "reads defenses" category. I could be wrong but when I think of a QB that reads defenses I think of a QB that's willing to hold the ball and goes through his progressions. Fresno State did not require Carr to do that often. If anything they wanted him to get the ball out quickly. They were so many screen passes called in that offense it was not funny. Is throwing screen passes reading a defense or is that just executing a designed play?

People have this image of Carr being a big strong arm QB like Mathew Stafford but Fresno State had him executing a game plan like he was Alex Smith. It is evident in Carr's yards per attempt which was far below the other top QBs. Fresno State won a lot of games with Carr so it's hard to argue against their approach.

There are multiple draftniks who mention Carr's pre-snap reading the defense to be a strength while also emphasizing that this is a very important trait for a QB to have, and one of the things that separates starting NFL QBs from backups/busts.

What you are describing as reading the defense is not a pre-snap read (which if they are in a bad play leads to an audible). What you are describing is the ability to extend the play and quickly work through progressions. I do not think those are the same thing.

Depending on the type of play called there may not be that many progressions (eligible receivers for the QB to read/choose to target) or there may be 5 of them.

If the called play was a screen then he executed the called play. But if the screen was an option that he audibles into or was an option on the play then he is making a read of the defense and deciding to execute that option.

eta- I think it is a very interesting article. One part that I think could be improved on is this-

In order to determine with traits were more important, I assigned a point system to each one relative to their frequency in the scouting reports. Below is the point scale.

QB Traits Point Scale

Trait #1, Good Pocket Awareness: 7 points

Trait #2, Good decision making: 6 Points

Trait #3, Good arm strength: 5 Points

Trait #4, Leader and good attitude: 5 Points

Trait #5, Can read defenses: 4 Points

Trait #6, Good accuracy: 4 Points

Trait #7, Can throw on the run: 4 Points

Total: 35 Points Possible

Instead of this why not use the frequency of the other results?

1. Good Pocket Awareness and mobile around the pocket with an ability to "step up" in the pocket (15 of 20 QBs possessed this trait)
2. Smart and made good decisions with the football showing patience (14 of 20 QBs possessed this trait)
3. Good Arm Strength or "Prototypical NFL Arm Strength" (13 of 19 QBs possessed this trait)
4. Good Attitude, leader and fierce competitor (13 of 19 QBs possessed this trait)
5. Has good vision, can see the field and read defenses (11 of 20 QBs possessed this trait)
6. Good accuracy (11 of 20 QBs possessed this trait)
7. Can throw on the run (11 of 20 QBs possessed this trait)

So 15pts for 1 14pts for 2 and so on or if you divided it in half rounding down that would be 7,7,6,6,5,5,5 respectively.

Anyhow interesting research here!

This is part of what I have done with football magazines is save a bunch of years so I can read them again 5 years later and so on to recall what was said about a player and by whom so I can compare that to what they are saying about player prospects now.

 

[Biabreakable]

By Chris Tomasson

ctomasson@pioneerpress.com

The Vikings will see quarterback Johnny Manziel at his pro day Thursday. But coach Mike Zimmer already is doing his own research.

Zimmer said Tuesday he has talked to legendary Minnesota quarterback Fran Tarkenton about Manziel. Many compare the 6-foot scrambling Manziel, who won the Heisman Trophy at Texas A&M in 2012, to the 6-foot Tarkenton.

“I did talk to Fran, and we talked a lot about (Manziel) because of the height with Manziel and the scrambling ability and things like that,’’ Zimmer said Tuesday in an interview with ESPN from the NFL owners’ meetings in Orlando, Fla. “Just (got) some of his insights for playing the game so long. …. He said a lot of good things about Manziel.’’

So is Manziel a guy the Vikings, who have the No. 8 pick in the May NFL draft, will try to land?

“It’s still going to come down to how we feel about how he’s going to be in the locker room, what kind of person he’s going to be, what kind of leader, and then go from there,’’ Zimmer said.

Zimmer, who took over as Vikings coach in January, said he has been reaching out to speak with former great Minnesota players. But he didn’t offer any names other than Tarkenton.

Follow Chris Tomasson at twitter.com/christomasson http://blogs.twincities.com/vikings/2014/03/25/mike-zimmer-talks-to-fran-tarkenton-about-johnny-manziel/

 

[CanadianNFLJunkie]

Well being a long time Viking fan as many of you others who post on here, I for one, do not think or want us to draft Manziel. I'm not sure if it was mentioned previously in this long thread but since 1953, there has only been ONE QB who was drafted in first round who was under 6 ft tall. Any idea who that might have been? (VICK) Manziel is officially like 1/4 inch under 6 ft. I would think he will get drafted in 1st round but most likely by a team who has a man crush on him and will trade up somewhere in the low-mid teams. Norv is a QB guru and I think he's smart enough to know drafting a QB either later on in the first round in a trade down or on Day 2 would be more beneficial to the organization with us having LB, CB holes to fill. I think with us playing outdoors for the next two years, we'll build the defense up and then we'll build the O with the new stadium coming down the road. So to me I'm thinking we'll take the LB Mack or the CB Gilbert with our top pick if we don't trade down.