In the latest episode of Vikings Report with Drew and Ted, we delve into the analysis of the entire 2024 draft class for the Minnesota Vikings. Today, we’re focusing on a pick that stirred up some mixed reactions—Alabama kicker Will Reichard, selected with one of the Vikings’ two sixth-round picks in April’s draft. If you want to see the full breakdown, you can watch the episode linked below.
Kickers often don’t get the spotlight in football, even those who are drafted. However, Vikings fans know the significance of having a reliable kicker, especially given the team’s rocky history with crucial field goals. Reichard brings a noteworthy resume as the all-time leading scorer in NCAA history, coupled with substantial big-game experience from his tenure with the Crimson Tide.
In addition to the draft analysis, the episode kicks off with a discussion about a famous Alabama alumnus, Forrest Gump. The conversation humorously explores the character Jenny, labeling her as one of the greatest cinematic supervillains of modern times. This light-hearted banter provides a fun prelude to the more serious football talk.
The series is wrapping up its draft analysis with one more episode focusing on the final two players from the Vikings’ 2024 draft class. After that, Vikings Report will take a break for July but will return once Training Camp begins. The hosts are also planning a live watch party for the Vikings’ nationally televised preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders on August 10.
For ongoing updates and discussions, fans are encouraged to share their thoughts on the Vikings Report with Drew and Ted YouTube page or other social platforms.
In other Vikings news, there’s speculation about the team’s performance for the upcoming season. The Minnesota Vikings have parted ways with Kirk Cousins and used their first-round pick to draft J.J. McCarthy, the quarterback from the reigning National Champion Michigan Wolverines. Under head coach Kevin O’Connell’s guidance, the team hopes McCarthy will be their quarterback of the future, although he might not start right away. Instead, veteran Sam Darnold is expected to be the starting QB for the season opener.
FanDuel Sportsbook projects the Vikings’ win total for the 2024 season at 6.5 games. This modest projection reflects uncertainties, especially at the quarterback position. Last season, injuries severely impacted the Vikings, with Cousins suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon and star receiver Justin Jefferson missing multiple games. Despite these setbacks, the team remained competitive, largely due to an improved defense under coordinator Brian Flores. Flores is returning to lead the defense, now bolstered by first-round pick Dallas Turner, who is expected to enhance their pass rush.
However, the offense still has significant questions, particularly at quarterback. With Darnold starting over McCarthy, the Vikings hope to gradually integrate the rookie into the NFL. Darnold has shown potential in the past but hasn’t consistently performed at a high level. This uncertainty leads to tempered expectations for the Vikings’ performance this season. The team’s success will largely depend on whether Darnold can maintain steady play or if McCarthy is ready to step up if needed.
Overall, the Minnesota Vikings face a season of cautious optimism. Coach O’Connell has previously demonstrated his ability to exceed expectations with his teams. Whether he can replicate that success this season amidst the ongoing quarterback questions remains to be seen.
