Two Michigan players picked in ESPN’s new 2024 mock draft by Vikings

Hail to the victor?

In a new post-combine, two-round mock draft from ESPN’s Jordan Reid, the Vikings spend both of their top picks on Michigan’s national championship-winning players. In doing so, they address a need on both sides of the ball.

ROUND 1, PICK 11: J.J. MCCARTHY, QB, MICHIGAN

We don’t know if free agent Kirk Cousins will return to Minnesota, but McCarthy fits coach Kevin O’Connell’s scheme perfectly. Yes, the passing sample size is small—he only completed 25 or more passes in 12 of 28 career starts—and his combine workout was erratic, but his efficiency at Michigan is impressive (72.3% completion rate). Minnesota’s infrastructure, with Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson catching passes, is ideal for developing a young signal-caller.

The Vikings appear to be ready to pounce if McCarthy makes it to 11. Depending on how they feel about him, they might even consider moving up into the 5-9 range to obtain their man. McCarthy’s volume was limited by Michigan’s run-heavy approach, but he was highly efficient and productive, especially on third down, when his team needed it the most. His athleticism, arm talent, and intangibles offer him a lot of potential at the next level, and he seems like a good fit for Kevin O’Connell and the Vikings.

ROUND 2, PICK 42: KRIS JENKINS, DT, MICHIGAN

Since taking over as Minnesota’s general manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has focused on explosive defensive prospects. Jenkins possesses those characteristics — he posted a 30-inch vertical at 299 pounds — and the Vikings’ defensive line might be in for some turnovers.

I like this option as well. Jenkins has been a standout for the Wolverines over the last several seasons, with eight tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and an interception. He’s better known as a run-stuffer than a dynamic pass-rusher, but he performed admirably in the combine (9.55 RAS), displaying explosiveness that bodes well for his potential to produce pressure at the next level. This would be a significant addition to the Vikings’ DT department, which desperately needs more talent. (Side note: Jenkins’ father, Kris, played defensive lineman for the Panthers and Jets in the 2000s, making three All-Pro teams.