2021 NFL Mock Draft: First-round projections after national championship

Kirk Cousins took his fair share of licks in 2020 and that led to a disappointing finish. The Vikings probably need defense more than anything, but offensive line is right up there with the need for defensive linemen and defensive backs.

How do you protect a quarterback who has shown that he can make the throws if given time? You bolster his offensive line.

Rashawn Slater is my No. 2 lineman in this class behind Penei Sewell and I could see him going right here as the Vikings are in dire need of linemen. The Northwestern senior stands 6-4 and 315 pounds and there’s talk of him moving to the interior of the offensive line which wouldn’t be the worst thing for the Vikings — they also need guard and center depth.

Slater opted to sit out the 2020 season but did enough in 2019 to prove that he’s well worth a first-round pick — just ask Chase Young how he liked facing Slater. His ceiling is high at center and guard but in a pinch, he could play outside.