2016 NFL Mock Draft: Full First-Round Projections, Super Bowl Edition

23. player. 60. <p>It’s not a flashy pick for the Vikings, but it’s a pick that fills a huge need. Minnesota suffered this past season due to their poor pass blocking, specifically at the tackle positions. Although the preseason loss of Phil Loadholt (and subsequent insertion of T.J. Clemmings into the starting lineup) certainly hurt, the play of Matt Kalil was detrimental to the Vikings’ overall offensive output.</p> <p>By adding Conklin to the mix, the Vikings would be giving themselves a potential replacement for Kalil who can at the least serve as a valuable backup and injury insurance in the short term. In the long term, Conklin should be able to take Kalil’s place in the starting lineup while saving them some money.</p> <p>The Michigan State product shows above average athleticism, good footwork and outstanding strength. He’s a bully in the running game, and has displayed the potential to excel as a left tackle in the NFL. Conklin is the best offensive lineman on the board at this point in the draft, so the Vikings will take what they can get to help keep Teddy Bridgewater off of the turf and Adrian Peterson in the end zone.</p>. Offensive Tackle. Michigan State. Jack Conklin