Marquess Wilson and the NFL: Minnesota Vikings

Marquess’ first two seasons at Washington State were undeniable and he looked destined to be at least a high day 2 pick going into 2012. But his final season was one of ups and downs before walking away from his team with just 3 games remaining. The character questions are there and on top of that there is an inconsistency concern going into April’s NFL Draft.

In 2012 MQW only caught more than 5 passes in a game twice, against Oregon (12 for 182, 1 td) and Utah (9 for 100). Also, he only caught passes for more than 100 yards 3 times (adding a 110 yard, 2 td performance vs UNLV). In the early stages of the season, some of this was attributed to penalties calling back several big gains and at least 3 touchdowns if memory serves. But more often times it was a pure lack of concentration that kept Wilson from big numbers in games, as he dropped several passes that were destined for big yards.

Regardless, Marquess Wilson is a natural big play talent who could really excel in the NFL if put into the right situation with a coach, receiving mentor and quarterback who will teach him all about being a professional and work ethic at his position. We’re examining his chances, team by team on making the roster as is with no agenda towards who the team would take otherwise at the wide receiver position.

Aug 30, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Minnesota Vikings helmet on the field before a game against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Minnesota Vikings

Stacked Against the Pick:

Minnesota surprised just about everyone in 2012 winning 10 games, and sneaking into the playoffs. This turnaround from a 3 win 2011 campaign was delivered on the running of MVP Adrian Peterson and not through the air. Their best receiver in 2012 was Percy Harvin and he only played in the team’s first 6 games due to injury.

The Minnesota Vikings need help at receiver, a lot of help. Unfortunately for Marquess Wilson by the time his name is called, if it’s called on draft day, Minnesota may have already filled the position. The Vikings recently traded Percy Harvin to Seattle for a 1st and 7^th round pick. This gives the Vikings 11 picks in April’s draft and with free agency in full swing; the chances of the Vikings still needing to select a receiver late in the draft seem slim.

The Perfect Storm:

A team like Minnesota who is in desperate need of some playmakers at wide receiver, could use a potential value pick like Marquess Wilson.  This draft is considered deep talent wise and with two 1^st round picks the Vikings could potentially take two wide receivers early in the draft. However they do have other needs, linebacker and help at the corner position among them. If the Vikings don’t sign a free agent or two at wide receiver and opt for just one receiver early in the draft they will be looking for value later on.

Likelihood of Getting Drafted by Minnesota:

If the Vikings sign a free agent like Greg Jennings, and use one of their first round picks to take a receiver, there is still a chance they look at Wilson later in the draft.

B- (1^st through 4^th rounds) With 11 picks, a 4^th round gamble on potential 2^nd round talent wouldn’t be a stretch.

A (4^th through 7^th rounds) Again enough picks to gamble with and need at receiver could help Wilson land in Minnesota.