The Vikings wrapped up the first round of the NFL Draft Thursday night by trading back from the 25th pick to No. 31 in a deal with the 49ers, and with that 31st selection they took TCU cornerback Jeff Gladney.
Minnesota had a major need at cornerback after seeing the departures of numerous defensive backs, including Xavier Rhodes, Trae Waynes, Mackensie Alexander, Jayron Kearse and Andrew Sendejo.
The Vikings took Gladney even though ex-Gophers All-American Antoine Winfield Jr. was still available late in the first round.
By trading the 25th pick, Minnesota also acquired the 117th pick (fourth round) and the 176 pick (fifth round) from San Francisco.
According to scouts, one of Gladney’s best traits is as a tackler as he’s willing to stick his nose into a play and get dirty. Gladney also is a solid cover corner that has great speed, technique and has the recovery skills to make plays he has very little business making.
There might be prospects with more upside, but the Vikings are in need of corners that can step in and produce. With a well-rounded game, Gladney has the ability to do just that and would pair well with either Henderson or Fulton if the Vikings use both first-round picks on corners.
Minnesota used the 22nd overall pick to draft LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson.
