Speculation about who the Minnesota Vikings will draft in the first round has ranged from Louisville wide receiver DeVante Parker to Michigan State cornerback Trae Waynes. Convincing arguments can be made for both players. Parker was quarterback Teddy Bridgewater's favorite target back in college while Waynes would fit in with head coach Mike Zimmer's defensive background. But it's also possible that neither player will be suiting up for Minnesota next season.
Bridgewater impressed the Vikings down the stretch last season, posting a Total QBR of 69.4 and a completion percentage of 71.7 in his final five starts. While another weapon at wide receiver or a young and talented corner are both enticing options, keeping Bridgewater upright and healthy could be Minnesota's primary concern coming into the 2015 NFL draft.
"To continue to improve, Bridgewater needs better protection," Tom Gower of Football Outsiders wrote. "Even though he flashed pocket presence, Minnesota's adjusted sack rate was 9.1 percent, sixth-worst in the league. A horrific season by left tackle Matt Kalil was a big reason why. The Vikings should make sure they are covered if Kalil - heading into the final year on his rookie deal - does not have a strong bounce-back season.
"To get that coverage, the Vikings should use their first- or second-round pick on an offensive tackle. Many offensive tackle are entering the league in need of technique work and could benefit from a year of sitting on the bench. If Kalil does not improve, that player could step in at left tackle in 2016. If Kalil improves the way the Vikings want, that player could replace Phil Loadholt at right tackle at a significantly cheaper price."
Minnesota allowed the 28th most sacks in the NFL last season with 51. Bridgewater, who has a slighter frame than most starting quarterbacks, also missed a few games with an ankle injury. Sparing him physical punishment will be important to his long-term success.
The highest rated offensive lineman in this year's draft class is Iowa's Brandon Scherff. However, he could be scooped up by the New York Giants a few picks before the Vikings are on the clock. If not, he could be just what Minnesota is looking for.
