The Minnesota Vikings have 25 impending free agents this offseason that they’ll need to make a decision on. One of which is center Garrett Bradbury. While there is no official word on Bradbury’s future with the team, his potential departure would leave a significant void at the center position.
Joe Broback of Pro Football Network suggests in a recent mock draft that the Vikings could address their need at center by selecting local talent John Michael Schmitz from the University of Minnesota.
“Even if Garrett Bradbury is the guy at center, this pick still makes sense. The Vikings need help on the interior offensive line, and John Michael Schmitz gives them versatility that they desperately need.
Schmitz played both guard and center with the Gophers, and he’s one of the biggest risers after the Senior Bowl. His tenacity in the trenches sets him apart, and that is something Minnesota needs offensively to elevate the unit.”
Drafting a center in the first round might not be many fans’ dream scenario, but let me tell you, Schmitz is the real deal. This guy’s got power like you wouldn’t believe, and even when he’s not quite on his A-game in protection, he’s got the grit and determination to bounce back. Schmitz could slide right into the starting role from day one, and the Vikings could finally have the stability they’ve been craving at center for years to come.
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