Vikings Add CB Blanton To Collection Of Former Notre Dame Standouts
Posted by on April 28, 2012 – 12:18 pmThe Vikings collected a pair of former Arkansas Razorbacks in the 4th round with the selections of WRs Jarius Wright and Greg Childs, but in the 5th round they added another former Notre Dame standout in CB Robert Blanton. With Blanton in the fold, the Vikings now boast five former Notre Dame players, two of which will help bolster the team’s secondary (Harrison Smith).
Blanton stands at 6-1, 208 pounds and improved his draft stock as a senior at Notre Dame. He is an experienced and productive college player, having contributed significantly even as a true freshman in 2008 with 33 tackles, 3 PBUs and 2 INTs in 12 games played with 4 starts. As a senior, Blanton stepped up his game and recorded 70 tackles, 6 PBUs and 2 INTs in 13 starts at CB.
Some will question Blanton’s explosiveness and strength, which is fair, but he comes to the Vikings with experience and production at a top-tier college program. Plus, he fits a position of need and some say he could transition to safety. It’s also fair to expect Blanton to become a solid special teams contributor as a rookie.
Tags: 2012 NFL Draft, Greg Childs, Harrison Smith, Jarius Wright, Robert Blanton
Posted in All, Mike Wobschall | 200 Comments »
By jekinneys on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
I see this guy as a safety next year, or nickel CB, but not till next year.
By PurplHaze on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
YES!!! This guy has the size to play either CB or FS. I like the pick!
By OTKalil2012 on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Good pick in CB Blanton…
By OTKalil2012 on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
And 2 players familiar with each others talents from playing together…
Smith being a leader in the Notre Dame secondary…
Good thinking Vikings…I like that…A lot !!
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
FOR THOSE WE JUST TUNING IN!
Rd 4, Pick 23 (118) Wright, Jarius WR
OVERVIEW
Wright has been a consistent starter for Arkansas since his freshman year. He is undersized but has legitimate 4.4 speed in the 40-yard dash, which he uses well in all aspects of his game. He wasn’t used much as a returner, but he is an option for NFL teams there based off his ball handling, quickness and long speed. He has fourth-round value working out of the slot at the next level.
ANALYSIS
STRENGTHS Wright is a very quick player who understands how to work out of the slot and sit down in the hole of a zone defense. He is tough in traffic and a deep threat who runs good routes. He understands the angling aspect of route running and how to create separation. He has quick hands to snag the ball in short throws and the ability to reel it in deep. He could add value at the return positions, although he hasn’t displayed much on special teams in college.
WEAKNESSES Wright is undersized, and although he gives great effort in the run game, he struggles to sustain his blocks. He utilizes quick feet off the line but can get jammed up by bigger corners.
Rd 4, Pick 33 (128) Ellison, Rhett FB
OVERVIEW
Ellison is a hybrid fullback/tight end who could play either role in the NFL. He is the beneficiary of a light tight end class in 2012, projecting to be one of the first off the board. A bruiser with a punishing frame, Ellison is a reliable blocker, both in-line and out of the backfield. He displays the same consistency in his pass-catching skills, both out of backfield and working upfield. Ellison likely will be selected in the middle rounds of the draft by a team looking for a physical player who can bring a workman-like attitude to the facility.
ANALYSIS
STRENGTHS Ellison is quick off the line of scrimmage for his size and understands how to stem to avoid jams. He is a decent route runner who will get covered but can separate at the top of routes. He catches nearly everything thrown to him is a very good in-line blocker.
WEAKNESSES Ellison is not very fast, nor is he a quick-twitch athlete. This is evident when he is running deep routes and trying to work upfield. He labors to move at times and can struggle in hard cuts on his routes.
Rd 4, Pick 39 (134) Childs, Greg WR
OVERVIEW
Childs was inconsistent at Arkansas but showed enough that he should be a late-round pick. He was obviously uncomfortable when running routes in 2011 after suffering a torn patella tendon the previous season.
ANALYSIS
STRENGTHS Childs understands how to use his body in the short game to create the space needed to be effective. He builds up his speed throughout the route and can battle with corners underneath when trying to gain position on slant and drive routes. He isn’t a physical player, but he will use his big frame to shield when necessary. When running the fade route, he understands how to use the sideline to his advantage. He can make any catch and can torque his body when running in-phase.
WEAKNESSES Childs’ lack of speed is obvious on routes deeper than five to 10 yards. He is not explosive and struggles to separate from receivers, though the ability to separate is becoming increasingly important in the NFL. He is not a deep threat and makes all downfield plays solely because of his size. Childs is just an average athlete who will struggle to make an immediate impact at the next level.
Rd 5, Pick 4 (139) Blanton, Robert CB
OVERVIEW
Blanton was a reliable, if not flashy, cornerback at Notre Dame. At this point, he could step in as a stopgap but has work to do before he can be a starter in the NFL. Blanton is a heady prospect who plays to his strengths. He understands footwork and technique in man-to-man coverage, but is not athletic enough to run freely with any receiver. He could be a backup as an outside corner or even in the nickel spot, and is worth a third-round pick.
ANALYSIS
STRENGTHS Blanton can work in both man-to-man and zone coverage and provide support against the run. He has copious experience playing the nickel position in the slot and should be able to provide an NFL team with depth at that spot. He can recognize routes and jump on them quickly in zone coverage, and he can use his long arms to recover and make plays on the ball in man coverage. There are small inconsistencies in his technique, but he is able to use his size and length to make plays.
WEAKNESSES Blanton has struggled with his backpedal and his technique at the top of routes, though he is able to recognize when he’s off-line, stick his foot in the ground and redirect himself. He has a tendency to widen his feet and lose ground, which could prove costly at the next level. He also lacks the elite speed he would need to cover top-tier NFL receivers man-to-man.
By GreggL on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
He ran a 4.53 at his pro day which is reasonable.
By ponderfan7 on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
the only corner i see starting is josh Robinson. with chris cook and smith for S
By Mike R. on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Bills snag another LB…Tank Carder!
By PurplHaze on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Vikes needed a LB named TANK!!!
By ironman on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
What did the lions give us for our 5thround pick?
By Mike R. on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Haha! Do the Vikings have anything left in the Tank?
By hognuts on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
4th round pick next year, ironman
By Twoods on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Great draft so far
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Did anyone take Minnifield yet ????
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
That was NFL.com’s take on those players
By Goon Squad on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Ironman- we gave up our 5th and 7th and picked up their 7th this year and 4th rounder next year.
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
http://www.nfl.com/draft/2012/tracker/by-round#dt-by-round-input:5/dt-tabs:dt-by-round
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Minnifield still on the board
By Kristofer on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
what did we get for that trade with the lions??????????? i cant find the answer what is going on
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
WOW my name is Kristofer
By PurplHaze on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Not yet, Shawn
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Jeez these blogs are poping up as fast as short men on our roster!
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Is there another UCF guy on the board?
By Mike R. on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
CB/S Menzie gone. But Blanton still good pick
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
4 picks left 1 6th 3 7th’s
By Mike R. on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Taylor Thompson DE turned TE gone.
I guess we got the blocking te-fb
By PurplHaze on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
LETS GET BURFICT IN THE 6TH!!!
By Spencer on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
We have too many corners, this guy better be playing FS..
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
I unno I think it maybe smart to grab K Blair Walsh. in the 6th
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
1 OG, 2 LBs and a Kicker to finish it off!
By ironman on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
LOL we ripped off he lions
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Spencer, you saying 9 is too many corners??
By PurplHaze on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
It won’t hurt if we dont take a kicker this year
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Maybe they will cut winfield tho? hate to say it but thats a lot of money….
By byron viking fan on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
i think we are good at corner and wide reciever, maybe add a vet. wr, when we let jenkins go…..it’s time to start drafting linebackers…you’re doig a great job rick(other then that trade w/detroit…dunno)
By ironman on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Burfict with the last pick, he will probably go undrafted if we dont get him
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
I think they keep Winfield this year for the leadership. Bowman, Carr, Burton and Sherals are all going to have to fight for a job though.
By OTKalil2012 on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
So to recap, it appears the #Vikings traded fifth- and seventh-round picks (Nos. 138 and 223) to the #Lions for a future 4th round pick.
By Spencer on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Parody- Yes…9 CBs is far too many.
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
The good news is, at 5ft 8, Wright won’t be able to dunk over our point guard.
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
we own the seventh round all by 12th
By Zac g on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
hey now! wrights 5’9-5’10 haha
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Yes the (hashtag)Vikings traded with the (hashtag)Lions. I hate Twitter
By Spencer on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Cook is clearly the #1 CB.
But as far as im concerned we still dont have a quality #2 CB.
By hognuts on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Burfict, Burfict, Burfict, Burfict, Burfict
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
I think we need more depth at CB
By PurplHaze on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
The Vikes traded up in the 7th with the Lions, OT.
The Vikes traded a 5th rd pick for a Lions 2013 4th rd pick.
By hognuts on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Blanton has got to be moving to safety.
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
What if he cuts Cook? With this new mold of players that have no off field issues it could happen
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
olb’s starting to fly. could be 6th
By PurplHaze on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
We need to take BURFICT in the 6th!!!
By Spencer on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
If we cut Cook I would no longer be a fan of the Minnesota Vikings.
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Looks like Alfonzo Dennard and Juron Criner are still on the board. How much longer will they last?
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
CUT COOK !!
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Kheeston Randall? 7th?
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
wow 6th big mystery
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
CBs
Chris Cook ………… 25 … didnt play last 10 weeks
Antoine Winfield … 34 … missed 11 games
Josh Robinson …… 21 … rookie
Zack Bowman …… 27 … free agent addition
Chris Carr …………. 28 … free agent addition
Asher Allen ……….. 24 … sigh
Marcus Sherels …. 24 … doesnt look good
Brandon Burton …. 22 … time is on his side
Robert Blanton …… 22 … might play safety
Reggie Jones …….. 26 … no chance
Nick Taylor ………… 24 … point guard
By jekinneys on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Winfield will play this year, but doubt he will make it through the season with out injury, but he will be gone next year for sure. With what we got this off season and this draft.. As long as Cook stays out of trouble! We should be great next season. Next draft get a speed receiver and a great DT in the 1st and 2nd rd… be set except for LB.
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
James Brown OG Troy
By Twoods on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Build depth at LB and DT next few picks
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
they also must be happy with not filling the need a DT?
By byron viking fan on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
cook will not get cut, he is our best corner, and he’s gonna be a good 1
By Spencer on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Cook will always be the #1 CB guys, get use to it.
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Emmanuel Acho is my top target right now…will he last?
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
@DraftCountdown
Best Available: George Iloka, S, Boise St; A. Dennard, CB, Nebraska; Chris Polk, RB, Washington; Marv Jones, WR, Cal; David Molk, C, Mich.
By Spencer on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Josh Robinson could be Brent Grimes 2.0..
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
I might even get used to it.
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
As long as cook doesnt have the dreads lol. I cant stand the long hair
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Lance – They gave multi-year contracts to Guion and Evans, so I think they’re confident with the DTs they have.
By Spencer on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
What are we going to do withi Emmanuel Arceneaux?
I guess that experiment failed.
By Twoods on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Josh Robinson returning punts with that speed? Sherels wasn’t impressive doing it
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
GDP….his ex relieved him of some of them…..
By Spencer on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Chris Cook has been doing his part- he is a regular at the off-season workouts. Meanwhile the alcholic, Jared Allen, has been a no show.
You would think the “leader” of the defense would be a regular during these workouts…
http://www.1500espn.com/sportswire/Notebook_Getting_second_chance_Chris_Cook_a_regular_at_workouts042712
By Spencer on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
*alcoholic
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Ya spencer
and I still have faith in manny but they never gave him a chance 
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
11 CBs … we had 5-6 per game in 2011
Safe
1- Chris Cook … Obviously starting
2- Antoine Winfield … NB / Tutor / Mentor
3- Josh Robinson … No way we cut a 3rd rounder
By Zac g on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
antonio allen saftey still on the board
By GrandDaddyPurp on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Ive said before Jared Allen is not a leader
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
pick Dennard and Cook is cooked!
By Twoods on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
And to those b&tching about Jarius Wright being another short receiver, there’s this guy named desean jackson, turned out to be a pretty good deep WR at only 5-10, having a 4 WR set with Simpson and Childs on the outsides and Wright and Harvin on the inside could be a great combo
By Scott on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
If the vikes keep drafting WR’s from Arkansas, they are going to remind me of the Waren Moon’s “Smurf” receiving core of the Huston Oilers. They need a running back to catch the football on 3rd down, an ILB, and a defensive lineman would help or a Guard?
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
First kicker is gone
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
childs? how about Jenkins? and Wright? how about Aroma?
So when we going to use these wrs? oh and unmmm 3 TEs
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Twoods….I’m not saying that he’s short, he towers over the kicking tee.
By Spencer on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Twoods- Youre comparing Jarius Wright to Desean Jackson because theyre both 5-10…
So I can compare Devin Aromoshadu to Larry Fitzgerald because theyre both 6’3 right..?
By byron viking fan on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
they’ve had a great draft…i really don’t think they’ll look dennards way, sorry guys but i really like our secondary and recieving corps right now
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Cam Johnson DE on the board
By Twoods on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
I’m saying dont be an idiot and count a receiver out just because he is short
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Is he doesn’t make the team he can always clean under the seats.
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
* If
By Twoods on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Oh and I guess there is this guy named percy harvin who is a pretty good WR too that isn’t that tall, just heard about him
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
He can chase all the rats and stuff out of the metrodome
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
LOL Nova
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
I think Asher Allen has a tough time making the team this year
By hognuts on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Packers just loading up on defense.
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
and I guess Jasper Brinkley be our MLB?
By Mike R. on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Terrell Manning gone……..,,
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Manning OLB gone to GB, this sucks
By hognuts on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
We should have Mike Tomlin as our head coach. Not the Steelers!!!
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
CBs
Safe
Chris Cook ………… 25 … didnt play last 10 weeks
Antoine Winfield … 34 … missed 11 games
Josh Robinson …… 21 … rookie
IMO 2 of these guys get cut and 1 goes to the practice squad
Zack Bowman …… 27 … free agent addition
Chris Carr …………. 28 … free agent addition
Asher Allen ……….. 24 … sigh
Marcus Sherels …. 24 … doesnt look good
Brandon Burton …. 22 … time is on his side
Probably doesnt belong on this list
Robert Blanton …… 22 … might play safety
Cut
Reggie Jones …….. 26 … no chance
Nick Taylor ………… 24 … point guard
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Either that or we tell EJ we want him back…
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Cole / Burfict time to get a LineBacker!
By hognuts on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Cut Asher Allen for sure.
By hognuts on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Anyone know for sure when the Senate and House debate the stadium bill? I’ve heard so many different times for both.
By Mike R. on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Darius Fleming LB from Notre Dame gone…
Why didn’t we take him? Make it ND defense connection
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
or it could be this 6 – CBs on the 53
1- Chris Cook
2- Antoine Winfield
3- Josh Robinson
4- Zack Bowman
5- Chris Carr
6- Asher Allen
Practice squad
1- Brandon Burton
2- Marcus Sherels
Cut
1- Reggie Jones
2- Nick Taylor
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Hognuts – Acho first. He’s the best LB still on the board.
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
GB jumped us for a linebacker. must be getting ready to pick one!
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Shawn, if Longwell sucks this year, we will need Nick Taylor to hit the 3-pointer.
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
what happened to our 5th rounder ???
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
good points Nova
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Shawn – we gave it to the Lions for a future 4th rounder. We used CLE’s 5th rounder on Childs.
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
wobs saying should be done with WR no dale moss
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Huge value for the Ravens, getting a 3rd round WR (Criner) in the 5th. About 100 picks later than he was projected.
By rlntlss on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
IMO as a Notre Dame fan for many years I can tell you Blanton was a great pick at this point. He is a very good cover guy and is really good in run support. The reason he does not have better stats is because teams exposed the other corner Gray(Better known as Toast) who could not cover my grandmother.
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Draft rintlss’ grandmother….How tall is she?
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
*Raiders, not Ravens
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
______________Raymond_______________HSmith______________
________________________________________________________
__Robinson________________________________________Cook__
________________________Brinkley_________________________
________Greenway______________________Henderson________
______________JAllen__Guion__Williams__Robison_____________
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Nova – I think you misunderstood him. Rltlss’ grandmother always runs up a huge bar tab.
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
tyler neilson/ jerry franklin
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
OK thanx … Childs was the 5th rounder I was thinking he was a 4th
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Here comes round 6. Acho’s still there…
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Parody….I like her already !
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
markelle martin/ antonio allen
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
brandon washington OG miami
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Audie Cole is my guess for the 6th
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Brady was picked in the 6th? wasnt Webb a 6th? connection?
By hognuts on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
By Goon Squad on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
James Brown with 175.
By Titus on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Get ready to jump to another blog.
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Tysyn Hartman FS/Kansas State he been picked yet?
By Mike R. on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
K Zeurlein gone to the stacked Rams
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Titus, I would, but my hamstring is killing me.
By Titus on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
I feel like popcorn.
By Cody C on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Burfict is still there so is Dennard
By Titus on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
We’re up next!
By Cody C on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
On the Clock – This will be a good player in a couple years hopefully
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
ryan steed / leonard johnson / minnifield, three good corners left
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Come on Acho!
By Mike R. on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Special teams gunners that could work into their positions…
RB Tauren Poole
LB Josh Kaddu
LB Noah Keller
S Sean Richardson
S Neiko Thorpe
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
That’s odd Titus, because you smell like Twizzlers
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Walsh – At least we got our kicker!
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
#2 rated kicker!
By Matthias on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
New kicker!
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
HAHAHHAAHA Parody !
By KoN on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Blair Walsh, good choice. I think they would have preferred Zeurlein, but the Rams took him already.
By Titus on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Parody, that makes no sense– I am talking about the rate blogs pop up.
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
sand he was the ranked 1 kicker this year
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1632083/blair-walsh
By jdude on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Well there’s the kicker of the future. Hope he can be like mason Crosby for us.
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Lance – Rebuilding year. Longwell’s time is up. Kickers can’t learn much by watching other kickers do it. Let Longwell go, free up about $2.5M in cap space and start seeing if the new guy can learn the job.
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Jarius Wright could probably stand under Longwell.
By Titus on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Nova, don’t encourage him. I will call in Larsonfamily.
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Titus – All you said was “I feel like popcorn”
It could have been interpreted in many different ways, and I chose to interpret it in the most unlikely way. Just messing with ya.
By OTKalil2012 on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
03/13/2012 – It didn’t escape the notice of a few of the top kickers in the 2012 draft class that five players at their position were designated as franchise free agents before a Monday deadline for applying such tags. The five kickers tagged — Connor Barth (Tampa Bay), Phil Dawson (Cleveland), Mike Nugent (Cincinnati), Matt Prater (Denver) and Josh Scobee (Jacksonville) — represented the most franchise players at any position. “Those guys win games,” said Blair Walsh of Georgia, who is rated by many as the top kicker prospect available in April, despite a subpar 2011 performance in which he converted only 21 of 35 field-goal attempts. Added Carson Wiggs of Purdue, who is also highly
regarded by pro evaluators: “Maybe it’s a little surprising to some people (that so many kickers were tagged), but it just magnifies how important kickers really are.” There hasn’t been a kicker chosen above the third round since 2005, when the New York Jets selected Nugent in the second round, and that streak will doubtless continue this year. But in 12 of the past 13 drafts, and 17 of the past 20 years, at least one kicker was picked. Not many teams figure to have kicker as a high priority for the ’12 draft, but someone like Walsh, Wiggs, or perhaps Randy Bullock of Texas A&M could sneak into the lottery. – Len Pasquarelli, The Sports Xchange
By Nordeast on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
or it could be this 6 – CBs on the 53
1- Chris Cook
2- Antoine Winfield
3- Josh Robinson
4- Zack Bowman
5- Chris Carr
6- Asher Allen
Practice squad
1- Brandon Burton
2- Marcus Sherels
Cut
1- Reggie Jones
2- Nick Taylor
Right on the Money Shawn, with Blanton as possibly the backup FS? Sherels and/or Burton will be playing on the team at some point in the season almost guaranteed. Allen I could see being cut and going to another team needing depth at CB though. If Raymond is our starting SS… we’re in trouble!
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
woot we got K Blair Walsh … that my 3rd correct pick
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
I am just saying Blair could be a bust right? But longwell is old but consistant. Best to keep them both one year incase blair lacks something.
By 61Vikings on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Kicker Blair Walsh 6th rd.pick!! Spells the end of Ryan Longwell!!
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Titus, I think Larson Family is busy with his ant farm.
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
If Blair lacks something, we still need to find someone else, young. As I said in an earlier blog, Longwell is a black squishy banana. It’s time to throw him out and start shopping for some new fruit!
By vikesfan5.0 on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Is McNutt,Burfict,Dennard,Moss still on the board. I was out playing baseball with my kids.
By Titus on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Parody, I am laughing at it all. Buffalo Bills will win their division this year.
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
we could bring back morten andersen? haha
By Lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
SOrry its hard to enjoy the draft im still upset with the rams taking Tru
one pick before we would have!!!
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
yea all four on the board
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
3 picks left
CB Alfonzo Dennard
WR Marvin McNutt
LB Audie Cole
Vontaze Burfict and Dale Moss as undrafted free agents
By Woodboat on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
I don’t get why you fellas are down on the Wright kid. Sounds like a Percy Harvin type player to me… you remember, Harvin… maybe the BEST PLAYER ON OUR TEAM. Yeah, I said it. When he’s right, I’d take him over Peterson… much more productive in the passing game and can run it as well.
If Wright can compare favorably with Harvin, pair them up with Carlson and Rudolph on the field and we have a pretty darned respectable receiving corps. I’m very pleased with what Spielman has done this offseason. If they can get one of the young guys to knock Loadholt off his starting RT position, I’m going to be stoked.
Kalil – C Johnson – Sullivan – Schwartz – (Someone other than the LOAD).
Not a bad line, right there.
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Oh guess!! that would Rock shawn
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Just having fun, Woodboat. You know I would love to see him shine.
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Shawn – We won’t be drafting any more WRs or DBs. We’re already going to have to cut a few players at both positions.
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Just getting ready for the 5:15 (AST) announcement…..
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Woodboat … The point is we already have a Percy Harvin type. His name is Percy Harvin.
By Woodboat on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Longwell has been a very good kicker, but he lacks distance. It’s not quite as critical to kick-off out of the back of the endzone as it once was, but it’s still a good thing to make the returner have to think about downing it. Ryan doesn’t give them a choice… they HAVE to run it.
Adam V won the Patriots / Colts how many superbowls? Without his sure foot, they’d have beeen watching the other team lift the trophy.
Welcome aboard, Walsh!
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Parody … depends. I think getting a second round talent in the 7th round in Alfonzo Dennard and the fact Asher Allen still holds a roster spot. I think its possible
By vikesfan5.0 on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Parody- Who do you think we should take in the last three picks?
By Nordeast on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
One thing to keep in mind during all of this is that we’re most likely going to be playing a lot of Nickel packages with 3CB and 2LB so we don’t have as glaring of a need at LB as we might think and CB is a higher priority than it has been before. Also, Winfield will be playing that nickel CB role, and he can hit just as hard as most OLBs, so it’s almost like playing a 4-3 anyway. This is a good setup for what they have on the team right now.
By 61Vikings on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
3 picks in the 7th rd. Positions still needed LB,OG and either DT/DE!!
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Parody … also as a Hawkeye / Marvin McNutt fan as long as he is available … I will keep hope alive
I was sure Singleterry would be allowed Audie Cole
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Is there any live link for this announcement?
By byron viking fan on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
dennard was mocked in the 2nd round in every draft i seen…i know what i said earlier but for if he still there @ 223, why not
By sandiamond on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
James Brown OG troy steal here! day1 starter they say
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
nova
http://www.nfl.com/draft/2012/tracker/by-round#dt-by-round-input:6/dt-tabs:dt-by-round
By Parody on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Vikesfan – we haven’t taken a LB yet. We lost a starter and a backup or two. So I think we need to go ILB, OLB, Guard/utility offensive lineman.
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Thanks Shawn, but I meant the Stadium announcement.
By Woodboat on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
61Vikings… we don’t need an OG. From what I am reading, they are moving Charlie Johnson to LG, and Schwartz will play RG.
By NovaScotiaVike on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
By hognuts on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
tomscheck@tomscheck
Gov. Dayton and DFL leaders are holding a news conference at 3:15 to announce that the DFL votes are there for a Vikings stadium……???????
By Woodboat on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
OR…. if they DO take an OG, MAYBE Charlie Johnson can handle the RT spot… but I doubt it.
By Shawn on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
new blog
By vikesfan5.0 on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Im kinda thinking BPA.9% of 7th round picks start in the NFL
By Woodboat on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Shawn…. obviously I realize we have a Harvin type. Would you rather have another Percy Harvin, or a sub par edge receiver that just happens to be tall?
By cursedvikingfan on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
After the Kalil pick, which should’ve been used on a playmaker, we have done nothing to excite me in this draft. It looks like all the drafts from the previous years when we thought Childress was the brains behind it. We added ZERO, ZERO playmakers to this team in 3 days. I hope I am wrong, but the Vikes get a D+ from me.
By lance on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Cursed, playmakers was not our problem, it was quarterback protection, opening holes for our playmakers, and spreading the field. All of these needs have been answered, so what were you looking for in the draft. We needed defense more than offense, we got a great safety, possibly two, plus a good cornerback in Robinson. We got a kicker who is very highly rated. This has been a top notch draft.
By jack the viking on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
Good draft-both SC players are studs-Ellison can contribute at many levels, Kalil is the best player in the draft-like the hard hitting Notre Dame boys roving centerfield-not sure about two hogs at receivers- and those of you asking for Burdict-there is a reason nobody wants him -has no idea what team means Audie Cole is a Greenway type player who hits like a trin.
By benvinking on Apr 28, 2012 | Reply
decent draft would of liked to seen us get someone to push ponder to greatness
By Nelson on Apr 29, 2012 | Reply
I hope we bring EJ back for a couple years. who is going to lead the defence without him? we didnt draft any starting LBs and we didnt get any LB free agents. sign him for a 2 or 3 yr incentive laden contract and let him lead as we improve our front seven in the next draft.
By zuehlke on Apr 29, 2012 | Reply
i agree ej is a huge must sign i think the draft and him seeing the talent for future of this defense will sway him to take little less money even though he deserves every penny outstanding middle line backer and leader
By puckertrucker on May 1, 2012 | Reply
To all The Minnesota Vikings Fans and Voters of MN: ITS TIME TO REFRESH THE MEMORIES OF THE POLITICIANS OF MINNESOTA THAT ARE HEMMING AND HAWING ON THE STADIUM BILL, REMEMBER THAT NOVEMBER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER AND THAT THE POLITICIANS THAT WANT TO VOTE AGAINST THE STADIUM BILL, THEIR POLITICAL FUTURES COULD BE AT STAKE, IT SEEMS TO ME THAT THEY DON’T HAVE THE STATES WELFARE, OR THE CITIZENS WELFARE AT HEART AND ALL THEY WANT IS WHAT THEY CAN STEAL FROM THE CITIZENS OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA. JUST REMEMBER IT’S THE VIKINGS THAT ARE THE STRONG COMMODITY FOR THE STATE, AND THE NEW STADIUM COULD CREATE ALOT OF JOBS THAT WE SORELY NEED AND THE INCREASED TAX BASE THAT THE VIKINGS WILL PROVIDE IS WHAT WE NEED. SO JUST REMEMBER CITIZENS THERE WILL ALWAYS BE POLITICIANS LOOKING TO GET VOTED INTO OFFICE, BUT THERE IS ONLY ONE MINNESOTA VIKINGS TEAM AND WE DON’T WANT THEM TO LEAVE OR COULD THIS STATE AFFORD TO HAVE THEM LEAVE. The One and Only PuckerTrucker! Skol fans
By D Anthony on May 1, 2012 | Reply
1- Chris Cook
2- Josh Robinson
3- Zack Bowman
4- Chris Carr
5- Brandon Burton
Practice squad
1- Brandon Burton
2- Antoine Winfield
3-Asher Allen
Cut
1- Reggie Jones
2- Nick Taylor
By D Anthony on May 1, 2012 | Reply
EJ Henderson Signed With The Dolphins!!!!!!