The Minnesota Vikings signed veterans Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave this past offseason to bolster their defensive line. However, both players are over 30, indicating that the Vikings need to bolster their line with youth, both in the short- and long-term.
Unfortunately, the Vikings have underperformed so far in 2025, sitting at a 4-4 record heading into their Week 10 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. However, that means they sit comfortably in the middle of the first round in mock drafts, giving them several options at pick 15 (projected by Tankathon.
Bleacher Report has the Vikings adding Clemson defensive lineman Peter Woods with the 15th pick. They point to Allen and Hargrave’s ages (33 and 31, respectively) in 2026 as one reason to go after Woods. But his value could be intriguing as well, as his stock has been sliding.
“Peter Woods’ draft stock has been sliding since the summer, as his pass-rush production has been underwhelming with only two sacks in eight games,” Holder said. “However, Minnesota’s run defense has been soft. The Vikings are surrendering nearly 30 more yards per game on the ground compared to last season. Clemson’s 6’3″, 311-pound defensive tackle can help solve that problem and still present enough potential as a developmental pass-rusher.”
They view Woods as a player who was once thought of as a top-10 pick. If the Vikings retain Brian Flores, he may like the opportunity to mold a young lineman who isn’t needed as an immediate piece in the lineup.
However, Vikings fans would prefer to improve upon the season and select in the 20s or even 30s. Could Woods’ stock continue to fall that far?