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Three Minnesota cornerbacks played more than 160 defensive snaps last year, and two of them--Patrick Peterson (884) and Mackensie Alexander (689)--are headed toward free agency. If Stingley isn't CB1, chances are that Gardner will be. With ideal length and smooth footwork, the ball-hawking--three interceptions in each of past three seasons--cornerback has the versatility to excel in either press or off coverage.

There's an irony in the Vikings taking a corner in their first year after moving on from Rick Spielman, but it's a void now. They simply didn't make enough plays on the ball and allowed way too many yards to opposing receivers. Stingley has top-10 talent but also some questions after a few injury-marred seasons. Reuniting with Justin Jefferson should lead to some epic practice showdowns, too.

Despite the recent resources they've invested at the position, the Vikings still need more help at corner, and this scenario is a fantastic way to make that happen. Stingley's film is inconsistent, and his injury-riddled 2021 campaign begs durability questions, but there's no denying his skill set and potential.

The Vikings have used four first-round picks on defensive backs since 2013, and one more here would tie them with the Packers for the most over that 10-draft span. It's still an issue. Minnesota allowed 5.7 yards per play in 2021 (26th), and its top two cornerbacks -- Patrick Peterson and Mackensie Alexander -- aren't under contract. McDuffie is smooth and displays good route recognition.

As an aside: This is another spot where quarterback wouldn't be shocking. Kirk Cousins has one more year left on his deal, so perhaps new GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and new coach Kevin O'Connell opt to take a step toward the future, especially with Liberty's Malik Willis still available.

Despite a talented roster, the Vikings finished a disappointing 30th in the NFL in overall defense, largely due to a secondary that was consistently torched by opposing passing attacks.

Booth does not receive the hype of some of the other cornerbacks in this class, but he's a legitimate top-15 talent who is just as physical in run support as he is sticky in coverage.

A plug-and-play cover man who's made to order for a defense that's been sabotaged by the position in recent years. McDuffie allowed 22 catches in his last 15 games for the Huskies. The Vikes are also scheduled to lose veteran CBs Patrick Peterson and Mackensie Alexander in free agency, further underscoring the need for such a quality replacement.

Viking fans are probably sick and tired of seeing cornerbacks mocked to them in the first round but the fact of the matter is, with Patrick Peterson and Mackensie Alexander slated for free agency, this team still has a big need at the position. Together with Cameron Dantzler, Gardner would give this team a solid cornerback duo to build around.

The Vikings will no doubt have more of an analytics look with new general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah coming in, but this pick is all about the best possible value. Stingley fills a need and when healthy would be a top five player in this class.

Stingley's instincts and ball skills would be welcomed in the Vikings' secondary. After missing all but the first three games of last season due to injury, Stingley will need to use the NFL Scouting Combine to display the strong hands and short-area quickness needed to be a stopper on the outside.

The Kwesi Adofo-Mensah era kicks off with a fairly safe player at a valuable position. Karlaftis earned a 90.6 pass-rushing grade in 2021 despite seldom leaving the field.