The Minnesota Vikings did not attend LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels’ pro day, likely intending to gather more information during a private workout, given his status as a top-three pick prospect. However, they’ve encountered resistance from Daniels’ representation.
According to KSTP’s Darren Wolfson, scheduling a private meeting with Daniels has been challenging for the Vikings due to doubts from his representatives about the Vikings’ ability to trade up into the top three picks to select him.
Wolfson emphasized the Vikings’ keen interest in connecting with Daniels, but his camp believes he’s likely to be picked second by the Washington Commanders or at worst third, possibly by the New England Patriots. They question the necessity of additional meetings with the Vikings given the extensive pre-draft process.
The Vikings have taken an unconventional scouting approach this year, with Kevin O’Connell opting out of attending pro days and focusing on private meetings with prospects. However, with the draft approaching, O’Connell hasn’t witnessed Daniels’ performance firsthand, and this may not change if the Vikings can’t demonstrate their ability to move up in the draft order.
Despite the challenges, the Vikings aim to convince Daniels’ camp of their strong interest and potential to acquire him. However, their trade-up efforts face obstacles, particularly with the Patriots, who have yet to budge from their third overall pick and are also being courted by other teams.
The Vikings possess the means to offer an enticing trade package, possibly the most valuable among teams looking to move up. However, if teams in the top five aren’t willing to trade down, the New York Giants could emerge as a significant player, especially if they only need to offer a Day 2 pick to secure their desired spot.
There’s speculation that the Giants could pursue a trade with the Patriots, complicating matters for the Vikings. The Patriots must weigh the Giants’ offer against the Vikings’, which could include multiple first-round picks.
In summary, the Vikings are determined to engage with Daniels but face challenges in securing a private meeting due to doubts about their ability to move up in the draft and compete with other interested teams like the Giants and Patriots.
