Yardbarker
x
Vikings fortify position of desperate need in latest NFL Mock Draft that will leave Brian Flores excited
Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Sitting at 9-2, the Minnesota Vikings have been one of the National Football League's best teams and biggest surprises.

Led by quarterback Sam Darnold , the Vikings' offense has become one of the most explosive in the league. Even after losing elite left tackle Christian Darrisaw, the offense has been excellent in generating both points and explosives.

On defense, it's more of a collective effort. There are standout performers like Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel, but despite their success, the holes are evident across the unit. This offseason will be crucial in fixing their biggest holes.

Vikings find explosive DT in latest mock draft

Arguably the biggest hole on the Vikings' defense is on the interior of the defensive line. They don't have anyone who can get pressure from the interior, instead relying on four edge rusher packages to get interior pressure.

Our own A.J. Schulte released a mock draft and has the Vikings addressing just that at 28th overall in Ole Miss DT Walter Nolen.

Cornerback has frequently been mocked to the Vikings, but when I look at that team, the lack of any pressure from the interior of that defense stands out to me as a far greater need.

Walter Nolen isn't perfect as a prospect and still needs some ironing out with his hand placement and processing, but the athletic tools jump off the screen. For a Vikings' team needing some juice up front, Nolen makes plenty of sense. 

Nolen isn't just an athletic specimen, he was the top overall recruit in the 2022 recruiting class. He initially committed to Texas A&M before coming to Ole Miss this offseason via the transfer portal. Nolen has made an impact for the Rebels, helping them to an 8-3 record through 11 games and on the cusp of making the College Football Playoff. 

Getting help on the interior in terms of a pass rush can elevate this defense to another level. The run defense is superb and elevating the pass rush should be a priority.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!