2021 NFL Mock Draft: Minnesota Vikings Select DE/OLB Kwity Paye at No. 14

With the 14th pick of the 2021 DBN Community NFL Mock Draft, the Minnesota Vikings select...

Kwity Paye, DE/OLB, Michigan

The selection and write-up were made by eauclairefan:

2020 was a disappointment for the Vikings and their fanbase. After a poor start, they rebounded a bit, but still fell short of the playoffs in the NFC. Even with their struggles last year, they should still be the chief challenger to the Packers in the NFC North, and if they can collectively rebound, should challenge for a playoff spot in 2021.

While the Vikings offense was prolific last year in spite of average play by their offensive line, their defense was the worst in the Mike Zimmer era. Both sides of the line of scrimmage are in need of immediate support. As of the moment, the Vikings also do not have a 2nd round pick, so they will need to make an impact with their first round selection. With multiple picks in the 3rd and 4th round available, they are candidates to package those picks and move back into the second round to fill a need. In short, the Vikings need help on both the offensive and defensive lines.

With tackles Slater and Darrisaw off the board, the Vikings selection will come down to their preferred DE or USC Guard/Tackle Alijah Vera-Tucker. With the 14th pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, the Vikings select Kwitty Paye, DE, Michigan.

Paye showed consistent improvement every year at the college level and is capable of playing all three downs. He is an outstanding athlete, fills an immediate need and will look good opposite Danielle Hunter as the Vikings look to re-establish their defensive prowess.

Pokorny: “Not having a second-round pick, Minnesota needs to hit on this pick to make some progress in 2021. I think they could end up taking the best offensive lineman available, even with Slater and Darrisaw both selected already, but taking the first edge rusher in the draft is also a good pick and fills a need for the Vikings.”

The New England Patriots are up next, led by Bo154033.