While Notre Dame linebacker Manti Te’o has been closely tied to the Vikings in many mock drafts, NFL Network’s Mike Mayock disagrees.
Mayock, who most consider the ultimate mock drafter, released his coveted mock draft Wednesday night and he has Te’o going to the Bears at No. 20.
At No. 23, Mayock has the Vikings selecting Tennessee wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson. Here’s what Mayock had to say about the potential pick.
“This kid is special with the football in his hands. Like Tavon Austin, he’s one of the most explosive players in the draft. There are some immaturity issues; can he learn an offense? All those things come into play. But I really think GM Rick Spielman will be stunned and happy if he falls to here.”
At No. 25, Mayock has North Carolina defensive tackle Sylvester Williams going to the Vikings.
“Highly recruited, really gifted kid. For sure a two-down run defender. I also think he can push the pocket in sub situations. I think Sly Williams is a perfect fit for the Vikings.”
The Business Insider took a look at 22 draft experts, to see who they thought would pick Te’o. Eleven of them said he’ll likely go to the Vikings.
Chicago and Baltimore were the other teams mentioned.
There are some, including ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. , who doubt that Te’o will be available at No. 23, and that the Vikings will have to trade up to get him.
Pioneer Press columnist Charley Walters is also in the Kiper camp, writing today that Te’o will likely be selected by the Bears (20th pick), and Minnesota should instead select North Carolina tackle Sylvester Williams.
On the other side of the river, the Star Tribune’s Mark Craig — in his mock draft — goes with T’eo at No. 23.
