Daniel Jeremiah released his latest 2023 NFL Mock Draft on Tuesday morning, and in this latest mock: NFL Network the analyst has the CBA for the Vikings. With the 23rd overall pick, Jeremiah selected Maryland CB Deonte Banks to the Vikings.
Banks’ best line is how physical he can be in press coverage, using his size to dominate the line of scrimmage. Here’s an excerpt from my own scouting report on Banks as part of the ongoing Vikings Draft Thermometer series:
“Deonte Banks brings ideal size as a boundary corner and he uses it perfectly in press man coverage. He’s very physical and has top speed ability to keep up with opposing receivers.”
“Seeing that the Vikings need a true lock in Brian Flores’ defense, this strength makes him a very intriguing option. Banks may be well-suited to take over the reins of secondary.”
Compare that to what Jeremiah says about Banks in his mock draft, and it looks like we have very similar thoughts on the Maryland CB as a prospect;
“Banks is well-sized and I think you’ll see its stock rise as the valuation process unfolds. The cornerback is physical and tough.”
Daniel Jeremiah over Deonte Banks
Especially with the Vikings hiring Brian Flores in the defensive system, it seems like a strong presence at cornerback who can consistently win one-on-one battles against wide receivers should be a big focus for Minnesota this offseason.
Duke Shelley took over that role somewhat in 2022, but he’s undersized and set to hit free agency. There will always be the fear that he has been a “flash” player until he proves he can play at an elite level on a consistent basis over several seasons.
Perhaps the Vikings would like to take that chance, but given that this franchise seems intent on improving enough to meet their self-imposed standard of championship contention, it seems counterintuitive to risk going into the 2023 season leaning on Shelley. in the starting position.
Minnesota has other options in free agency, of course. However, if they want to maximize the value of the position, they might be best off trying to find a true lock guy in the draft who can have a rookie-scale contract. Banks has the potential to be that type of player.
Josh Frey is a Class of 2020 graduate of The College of Idaho with a BA in Creative Writing. She also earned minors in History, Human Biology, and Journalism. When he’s not writing about the NFL, Josh enjoys marathon training, playing video games, or rooting for the Milwaukee Brewers and Bucks. For more of his opinions, check out his Twitter account: @Freyed_Chicken.