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EXPLORING VIKINGS DRAFT TRENDS
A HISTORY OF RICK SPIELMAN'S DRAFT TRADES
VAN JEFFERSON
HEIGHT/WEIGHT/AGE
6-foot-1
200 pounds
23 years old
BIG PICTURE
Van Jefferson's father, Shawn Jefferson, recorded over 7,000 yards as NFL receiver. Now his son looks to pick up where Dad left off. The four-star recruit began his career outproducing D.K. Metcalf and A.J. Brown at Ole Miss but struggled to ascend beyond that. Played two years for the Rebels before transferring within the SEC to Florida, where he caught 12 touchdowns over two years. Showed he could be a deep threat at Florida, but didn't produce very consistently with the Gators. Has worked out of the slot at times. May fall in the draft because of offseason surgery on a Jones fracture. Turns 24 before the regular season, which may reduce his value.
COMBINE NOTABLES
DNP
VIKINGS COMPATIBILITY RANKING
2 out of 5. Because of injury concerns and lack of upside, Jefferson doesn't feel like a sure bet to fill the Stefon Diggs void, but if he dropped significantly the Vikings could snare him as additional receiver depth.
HIGHLIGHTS
WHAT DRAFT EXPERTS SAY
Lance Zierlein, NFL.com: "Versatile, skilled receiver who has played all three receiver spots but is likely to do most of his damage from the slot. Jefferson has average size and won't run away from quality man coverage, but he will separate from it with premium route-running and unique looks and angles that keep cornerbacks on their heels. He needs to prove he can deal with NFL size and strength banging on him at the catch point. Jefferson is a pro-ready receiver whose skill level and competitive nature outweigh average explosiveness and he should find quick work as a WR3/WR4."
Kyle Crabbs, Draft Network: "Van Jefferson is a pro-ready wide receiver who should have little issue fitting into any system at the pro level. Jefferson is silky smooth on his routes, plays with a lot of cerebral nuance and illustrates excellent hands through contact. He may never been a focal point receiver but as a secondary target, Jefferson figures to have a long and productive pro career. His best routes work into the MOF and allow him to defeat coverage inside — continued work as an RPO target is advisable."
WHAT PFF SAYS
Only 3 broken tackles last season
50% contested catch rate (above average)
5 deep receptions (T-183rd)
CHECK OUT THE REST OF THE ZONE COVERAGE DRAFT GUIDE:
EXPLORING VIKINGS DRAFT TRENDS
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