The 2027 NFL Draft will take place in Washington, D.C. next year. In that draft, the Vikings still have their first-round pick, but a lot could happen in the next 9 months. Before then, though, there will be plenty of speculation and buildup for the team and who they may add to the roster through the draft in a class that many are saying could be one of generational wealth.
of the cycle, which has the team going with a new defensive addition in one of the top cornerbacks out of the SEC. Kelley Jones, who plays for Mississippi State, has become a hot name for folks looking for a dynamic playmaker on the back end of their defense.
Rang explains the Jones pick, writing, "The Vikings surprised some during the 2026 draft with the gamble on uber-talented but inconsistent defensive tackle Caleb Banks. I could see defensive coordinator Brian Flores pushing for a similarly unique prospect in Jones at cornerback. The 6-foot-4, 196-pound Jones allowed a total of 11 receptions last season, corralling receivers with his long arms and shockingly light feet. New general manager Nolan Teasley saw a lot of success in Seattle with oversized cornerbacks and might also be willing to bet big on Jones’ potential. "
Jones, beyond just the physical traits, is an aggressive cornerback. When I watched him in the summer, I thought he was right down the Vikings' alley in terms of being the perfect prospect. Look for this to be a popular mock draft pick over the next couple of months.
This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: