With limited draft picks in 2025, every selection the Minnesota Vikings make holds added significance for the future.
This year, Minnesota only has four picks in the NFL Draft, and many analysts expect them to focus on bolstering their defense. Most mock drafts suggest the Vikings will target a defensive back or an interior defensive lineman in the first round.
As rookies begin their 30 visits before the draft on April 24, one player who stands out is Kentucky defensive back Zion Childress, who is expected to meet with the Vikings. A source informed The Draft Network’s Ryan Fowler on Monday that Childress has scheduled a 30 visit with the team, with a possible visit to the Houston Texans as well.
Childress is considered a versatile secondary option, having played over 850 snaps at nickel, box, and free safety during his college career. After spending his first two seasons at Texas State, he transferred to Kentucky for his final three years. In his last season at Kentucky, he recorded 55 tackles, a career-high six tackles for loss, two pass deflections, one forced fumble, and one sack in 12 games.
Draft projections have Childress slated for a day-three pick. His most valuable asset is his flexibility to shift between linebacker and safety. His background as a quarterback in high school has also given him a strong football IQ, enabling him to anticipate quarterback strategies.
The Vikings’ defense aims to find versatile players who can thrive in defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ system, making Childress a potential fit as either a safety or outside linebacker. To make the roster, Childress would likely need to prove himself on special teams, particularly in kickoff coverage.
With two of their four picks on day three, the Vikings’ selections on that day will be crucial. As the team might be active in trades, unearthing hidden gems in the draft will be just as critical.