NFL Network’s Bucky Brooks released his Mock Draft 1.0 as the first 28 spots have been solidified with the conclusion of the divisional round of the playoffs.
With the 11th pick, Brooks called in some help in the pass-rush department to the Minnesota Vikings as they selected Florida State edge rusher Jared Verse.
Adding an athletic pass rusher to the lineup will enhance the Vikings’ aggressive schemes under Brian Flores. The Florida State standout flashes double-digit potential as a sack artist.
Does he ever. Verse’s strength and bend around the edge make perennial Pro Bowler Danielle Hunter the perfect player for Verse to learn under.
Or possibly replace.
Hunter, along with pass-rushers D.J. Wonnum and Marcus Davenport, is a free agent in the upcoming off-season. What to do with Hunter and his sure-to-be-expensive contract is one of the hot-button issues that the Vikings front office will navigate.
Having a possible replacement in mind may not be the worst idea. Having that replacement be of the caliber of Verse makes it even better.