Round 1, Pick 3, 3rd overall: Matt Kalil, OT, USC - This is pretty much a given. It's not often an OT prospect like Kalil comes around and obviously Charlie Johnson is not as good as protecting the blind side as hoped when he was signed. And with this pick, Johnson could move to left guard where it is said he will be more comfortable.
**Alternate Pick - Unlikely, but trade with Dolphins, sliding to number 8 and picking Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa and picking up at least another second round this year and selecting Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina or Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska**
Round 2, pick 3, 35th overall: Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina - At the start of the 2011 season, Jeffery was projected as a top 10 in the first round. But due to less production in 2011 than 2010 and being ejected from his last game after getting in a fight with Alfonzo Dennard. Also, he did not participate in the combine this year. All this results in him potentially dropping to the 2nd round. He is excellent potential for a number 1 receiver. Many mocks have Jeffery falling even beyond the 35th pick.
**Alternate Pick - Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina**
Round 3, pick 3 67th overall: Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia - In 2011, Boykin had 55 tackles, 11 tackles for a loss, 9 passes broken up, 3 interceptions and 2 forced fumbles. Thanks to the CB depth in this years draft, it is likely that Boykin will end up falling to the 3rd Round.
**Alternate Pick - Nick Toon, WR, Wisconsin**
Round 3, compensatory pick: George Iloka, S, Boise State - Iloka was a big part of the secondary at Boise State, preventing the deep play. This could present a problem in the NFL as he struggles mirroring players and will likely not be able to line up as deep as he did with Boise but still a solid upgrade for the S position of the Vikings
Round 4, pick 3: James-Michael Johnson, ILB, Nevada - ILB is a strong need for the Vikings. Johnson is a strong tackler, that is able to fill the gap, shed blocks quickly and make plays on the ball. He is able to identify pass/run quickly. He does struggle in man coverage, but would fit nicely into the Vikings zone defense.
**Alternate Pick - Tyrone Crawford, DT, Boise State**
Round 4, compensatory pick: A.J. Jenkins, WR, Illinois - Vikings should look to bolster their WR corps. to give Ponder as many weapons as he can. This would be a smart pick if they are unable to resign Devin Aromashodu. Jenkins has the ability to get separation and has quick speed off the ball. But he does appear to not always put forth his full effort every play.
Round 5, pick 3: Mike Daniels, DT, Iowa. With Remi getting cut today, DT is turning into a position of depth. Daniels is fast off the ball and is able to get in between blockers. However, his size can also result in him getting engulfed by big blockers and struggles with double teams.
**Alternate Pick - Brandon Taylor, S, LSU**
Round 6, pick 6 (From Cleveland): Miles Burris, OLB, San Diego State: Erin Henderson has not yet been signed, and even if, will need some depth. Burris is an explosive LB, able to cover in zone and in man but his speed can be exposed in space. Burris is able to get in the box and plug gaps as well.
Round 7, pick 3: Desmond Wynn, G, Rutgers - Good run blocker with athleticism, but struggles against the pass rush. Good developmental prospect to add some depth besides the signing of Schwartz.
Round 7, pick 16 (from New England): Antwuan Reed, CB, Pittsburgh - Good down field protection but could easily get beat on quick passes due to his quick turning to run with the receiver. Poor ball skills to make plays despite quick reaction on routes.
Round 7, compensatory pick: Nathan Stupar, OLB, Penn State - Stupar is undersized as a LB and can struggle with shedding blocks. But he possesses the talent to be a back up on the roster and a strong special teams player.
The Vikings lost Round 6, Pick 3 to Washington for the horrible Donovan McNabb trade.
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