Welcome to SKOL Search!
This series will be your guide to the 2024 draft class. From scouting reports to mock drafts and exploring different scenarios, we will be covering the NFL draft and the future of the Minnesota Vikings from all angles.
The focus of the draft class in this space will be on the Vikings’ major needs at quarterback, running back, defensive line and edge rusher. We will also focus on wide receiver since it’s a loaded class and an increased chance to get a Stefon Diggs-type steal in the later rounds.
The Vikings are slated to have 9 picks going into the NFL draft and they need to make the most out of them.
Background
Brock Bowers
- Georgia
- Height-6040
- Weight-240 lbs
- Third-year Junior
- 4-star recruit per 247 Sports
- Stats: 224 targets, 175 receptions, 2,541 yards, 14.5 YPR, 26 touchdowns, 19 rush, 183 yards, 5 touchdowns
- Games watched: Kentucky 2023, South Carolina 2023, Auburn 2023, Alabama 2023
Strengths
Bowers is a force in the running game. He isn’t the greatest blocker, but does it well and most importantly, gives effort in doing so.
Is a fluid mover in space. Isn’t necessarily twitched up but moves very smooth in all phases, especially after the catch where he’s so dominant.
Understands route running and does it at a high level. Knows how to outleverage defenders and uses great change of direction in doing so.
Does a great job tracking the ball in the air. Sees it very well and can attack it consistently with either one or two hands.
Weaknesses
I’m worried about his overall speed considering his usage. Will what made him special in space translate 1:1 to the NFL game? If it doesn’t, how will that change his potential? He thrived at Goergia dominating in space.
Blocking hs some skill and a lot of effort but he isn’t a great blocker at the position. He doesn’t have the strength or technique at this point to be a dominant blocker.
Route running overall could use some work. Doesn’t have the route tree yet to rely on but has the ability to develop.
Overview
| Catching | 8.5/10 |
| Release | 8.6/10 |
| Route Running | 8.7/10 |
| Tracking | 4.6/5 |
| Separation | 4.0/5 |
| Contested Catches | 8.8/10 |
| Power | 7.9/10 |
| Flexibility | 8.4/10 |
| Balance | 8.8/10 |
| Versatility | 9.1/10 |
| YAC | 9.4/10 |
| Grade | 86.8/100 First Round |
Bowers is a really good player, but I’m concerned about how he projects forward. Once we see his athletic testing, I think it will tell a better story on what he will be in the future. Regardless, he’s got a good profile with some exciting traits.
