The Vikings just lost two former Clemson Tigers, losing cornerback Mackensie Alexander and safety Jayron Kearse to free agency.
Two out, two in.
In his latest mock draft over at NFL.com, Adam Rank has the Vikings drafting two Tigers in the first round alone.
With the 22nd pick (acquired by the Bills in the Stefon Diggs trade), Rank has the Vikings drafting Clemson wide receiver Tee Higgins.
Here’s what Rank wrote about the fit:
I guess it was time to part ways with Diggs. Sometimes those relationships run their course, Vikings. No need to dwell on hurt feelings, though. Higgins would be a perfect fit for you. He works well down the field and a pairing with Adam Thielen could make it seem like nothing has changed.
With the 25th pick, Rank has the Vikings taking Higgins’ teammate, cornerback A.J. Terrell. Here’s what Rank wrote about Terrell:
The defense used to be the strength of this team, Vikings. But now you are rolling into the draft hoping guys like Mike Hughes, Holton Hill and Kris Boyd can step up at corner. Solid NFL players for sure, but you could use some help. You took a receiver with your first pick. It behooves you to take the best cornerback left on the board in this spot.
These are surely two positions of need for this team, there’s no arguing with that.
Higgins ranks at Pro Football Focus‘ 24th-ranked prospect, while Terrell is 34th. Reaches, maybe, but right around where the Vikings are drafting. With two first-round picks and 12 total picks, I’d expect the Vikings to be aggressive with trades.