Draft Wire’s Curt Popejoy released his latest 2024 NFL mock draft just before the postseason. At pick 11, Popejoy had the Minnesota Vikings taking defensive back Cooper DeJean out of Iowa to help bolster the secondary. Popejoy explained that the Vikings are “another team that needs a quarterback but just goes for value instead” with the DeJean pick.
Since week 15, the Vikings were second-to-last in both EPA/dropback allowed and defensive success rate. They allowed the best completion percentage, the second-most yards and the second-worst quarterback rating.
While Flores’ defense was still miles better than years past, there was a limit to its effectiveness due to the lack of talent in the secondary. DeJean would be another piece that Flores could utilize alongside Bynum and Metellus, especially if Sunday was Harrison Smith’s final game as a Viking. Whether at safety, in the slot or outside, DeJean is a versatile weapon that can cover number-one receivers and tight ends while also being a reliable tackler. If Flores stays, expect DeJean to be on Minnesota’s radar for the 2024 NFL draft.