The Vikings have been evaluating prospects down in Mobile, AL this week.
After three days of practices, the Senior Bowl comes to an end with its highly anticipated game on Saturday afternoon. However, the practices are where players truly have the opportunity to impress scouts and elevate their draft stock. Let’s examine six players who stood out this week (based on reports from those on the scene) and could be potential targets for the Minnesota Vikings in the upcoming draft.
OL Grey Zabel, NDSU
Zabel spent five years at North Dakota State as an offensive tackle but practiced at guard this week, looking excellent and perhaps emerging as the biggest riser of the event. ESPN’s Jordan Reid mentioned that Zabel was the “most consistent of any player, regardless of position.” Standing 6’6″, he’s capable of playing all five offensive line spots, but guard seems to be his best fit. The Vikings could consider him as high as the 24th overall pick or in the late first/early second range after trading back.
DT Walter Nolen, Ole Miss
Nolen likely performed too well for the Vikings to realistically target him. With 6.5 sacks this season and an impressive Senior Bowl showing, his quickness and power may land him in the top 20. If he somehow drops to 24, the Vikings might reconsider trading down. Another intriguing defensive tackle in this range is Texas A&M’s Shemart Stewart.
DT Darius Alexander, Toledo
Alexander, who spent five years at Toledo, had a breakout week and could be more attainable for the Vikings. He’s a massive player with long arms and a powerful, explosive game. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah compared his body type to Chiefs All-Pro Chris Jones, which is high praise.
RB Devin Neal, Kansas
The Vikings could target a running back in the draft, even if they bring back Aaron Jones or Cam Akers. A realistic selection could be in the third round with their compensatory pick at No. 97 overall. Neal fits that range, having posted around 1,500 scrimmage yards and 17 touchdowns in each of the past two seasons. He also impressed with his agility and pass-catching ability at the Senior Bowl. Other running backs who stood out include Ollie Gordon (Oklahoma State) and Trevor Etienne (Georgia).
CB Azareye’h Thomas, Florida State
The Vikings will likely sign at least two starting-caliber cornerbacks in free agency, but drafting one early remains a possibility. Thomas may have had the best week of any cornerback at the Senior Bowl, showing off his length, athleticism, and fluidity to make plays. Although he only had two interceptions at FSU, he won’t turn 21 until the summer and has significant upside.
CB Maxwell Hairston, Kentucky
Hairston also had a standout week, excelling in man-to-man coverage during one-on-one and team drills. His combination of length and speed is highly sought after at cornerback, and he recorded five interceptions, including two returned for touchdowns, in 2023.
