The Minnesota Vikings are entering the NFL draft with multiple needs and how they address them has been a big topic of conversation. Getting a wide receiver is one of them and will likely be addressed early on.
ESPN’s Matt Bowen identified the perfect wide receiver fit for the Vikings in Ole Miss’ Jonathan Mingo in round three. The explanation of why makes a compelling case of Mingo being the perfect fit.
After the departure of veteran Adam Thielen, the Vikings could add someone like Mingo to the wide receiver room on Day 2 of the draft. And I really like the fit for him in Kevin O’Connell’s offense, given Mingo’s powerful frame, route detail and production after the catch.
The Vikings can create free access off the ball for Mingo with motion and creative formations, giving him targets on rhythm throws from quarterback Kirk Cousins. That’d provide schemed voids that also put Mingo in a position to get loose after the catch, where he averaged 7.4 yards after the reception in 2022. Finally, Mingo would have the slot flexibility in Minnesota’s system to fit well with the Vikings premier targets Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson.
Mingo is a player that can play in both the slot and the outside and win with both physicality and athleticism. In the style of offense that Kevin O’Connell likes to play with wide receivers also being asked to block, this is a fantastic fit.