Allen Trade Looks Better And Better

Minnesota knew they had to get a defensive end to fix a struggling pass rush, and if they hadn't trade for Jared Allen, they would have turned to the draft. But the worry was that by the time pick No. 17 arrived, there wouldn't be a defensive end worth taking.

If Derrick Harvey had somehow slipped to No. 17, the decision to trade a first and two thirds for Jarred Allen may have looked a little foolish. Harvey could end up being the kind of player that Allen is for a lot cheaper.

But the Vikings' hunch has proven correct. With Jacksonville trading up to No. 8 to take Harvey, the top three defensive ends are all off the board, leaving a big gulf to the next best defensive end (probably Phillip Merling). Chris Long, Vernon Gohlston and Harvey are thought to be immediate impact guys, but none of the remaining defensive ends are thought to be guys who can step in and star.

Given the choice between picking up another project at defensive end or a proven star, Minnesota's gamble seems more and more like the right call.

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

4-27-2008 @ 12:21AM

Tony Linder said...

That does it, Until the Vikings can Childress I will look for a new team. One that puts winning ahead of trying to prove everyone wrong on a lousy pick for starting QB. Jackson is another Quincy Carter and will be someones backup, if still in the league next year when Childress is gone and the Vikings eek out a .500 season after being forced to start Frerotte in the second half. They will be left with NO QB of the future. (After Gus is gone )

4-27-2008 @ 3:41AM

Lou said...

I love the Jarred Allen T trade. T Jack will be good as long as Childress doesn't put too much responsiblity in his hands. They have 2 great running backs amd a stout defense. That adds up to a division championship as long as they don't let T Jack become the mad bomber.

4-27-2008 @ 10:36PM

DB Ballantine said...

Don`t put too much responsibilty in your starting QB`s hands ?? I couldnt have said it any better myself. That is the Vikings (and Childress`s) whole problem. Who`s hands should they put it in ? , The safety ? the left guard ? Other than no QB, they look pretty good, trouble is, your team sinks or swims with the QB, Brad !