The Minnesota Vikings made the most noise in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft by selecting Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy and Alabama EDGE Dallas Turner. They are going to be so intriguing to watch this offseason because of the massive change with the direction of the franchise.
ESPN asked their NFL staff to pick their favorite selections and Turner ended up being the favorite of NFL Draft analyst Jordan Reid.
Edge rusher Dallas Turner to the Minnesota Vikings at No. 17. Minnesota hasn’t drafted an edge rusher in the first two rounds since 2005 (Erasmus James). The team needed to replenish its talent off of the edge after losing Danielle Hunter in free agency. While the team signed Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel during free agency, Turner provides a high upside as a pass-rusher in Brian Flores’ defense. Turner led Alabama with 10 sacks and 45 pressures last season.
It’s wild to think about the Vikings not having drafted an edge rusher in the first two rounds in nearly 20 years. They did trade their 2008 first-round pick to the Kansas City Chiefs for Jared Allen but it’s not the same as getting a player like Turner on a rookie contract.
The elite-level athleticism Turner possesses is a big reason why the Vikings moved up to get him. It’s one of the biggest prerequisites to success as a pass rusher. The way he moves is exactly what Brian Flores likes to have in his defenders and that versatility is key to running his defense.
