The Minnesota Vikings are strategizing to potentially move up in the draft for a top-five quarterback selection. However, if this plan falls through, they have a backup strategy for 2024 involving Sam Darnold. According to a report by Sportskeeda’s Tony Pauline on March 21, the Vikings are considering using their No. 11 overall pick to draft Texas defensive tackle Byron Murphy II, whom they met with during Texas’ pro day. Pauline suggested that while the focus has been on quarterbacks, Murphy could serve as a contingency plan if they fail to secure a signal caller. In such a scenario, the Vikings would look to their No. 23 overall pick, obtained from a trade with the Houston Texans, or rely on Darnold as their starting quarterback for the 2024 season. If they opt for a lower-ranked quarterback like Michael Penix or Bo Nix at No. 23, their chances of starting immediately would be slim compared to Darnold, given their draft positions. The Vikings traded away their 2024 second-round pick and a 2025 second-round pick to acquire the Texans’ first-round selection, leaving them without second- or third-round picks in the upcoming draft.
Vikings Not Willing to Draft Just Any QB in 2024 NFL Draft
The Vikings’ contemplation of their options in the first round signals their commitment to finding a quarterback who will lead their team for the long term, rather than settling for just any available prospect. While the advantages of having a quarterback on a rookie contract are widely acknowledged, the Vikings are focused on securing a quarterback who will anchor their team for the next decade, not just a few years.
Ben Goessling, a reporter for the Star Tribune, previously hinted at the Vikings’ interest in selecting a top-tier prospect, even before they acquired an additional first-round pick. This acquisition strongly suggests that the Vikings are considering trading up in the draft, if not already planning to do so. Goessling emphasized the Vikings’ extensive evaluation of rookie quarterbacks throughout the past year, indicating their determination to seize the opportunity to acquire a franchise-defining player.
Kwesi Adofo-Mensah affirmed Goessling’s observations, acknowledging the existence of a “preferred plan” associated with the additional first-round pick, which provides them with valuable flexibility. Additionally, the presence of Sam Darnold, who signed a one-year, $10 million contract in March, contributes to the team’s strategic maneuverability.
Byron Murphy Is Worth the No. 11 Pick
Opting not to select a quarterback in the draft could stir up considerable excitement among Vikings fans. However, choosing Byron Murphy with the No. 11 overall pick presents a compelling alternative.
Murphy’s impressive performance places him at No. 9 on the Pro Football Focus (PFF) draft big board. Moreover, he held the distinction of being the second-highest graded interior defensive lineman in the nation last season, boasting an impressive 91.1 PFF grade.
His skill set, blending strength and speed, proved effective against formidable Power 5 competition. Notably, Murphy stands out as one of the most proficient interior rushers to emerge from college football in recent years.
