PFF's Controversial 2021 Re-Draft Shakes Up Vikings' History with Unexpected Pick

In the ever-evolving world of NFL analysis, re-drafts serve as fascinating hypothetical exercises, allowing us to reconsider past choices with the benefit of hindsight. Pro Football Focus (PFF), a leading voice in football analytics, recently unveiled their 2021 NFL re-draft, and their proposed pick for the Minnesota Vikings at No.

14 overall has certainly sparked discussion, if not outright disbelief among the fanbase.

Originally, with the 14th pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings shrewdly selected offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw. Since then, Darrisaw has blossomed into one of the league's premier left tackles, anchoring the Vikings' offensive line with exceptional play that has made him an indispensable asset and a fan favorite.

His consistent performance has firmly established him as a cornerstone of the franchise's future.

However, PFF's re-draft throws a curveball. Instead of Darrisaw, they have the Vikings selecting defensive end Kwity Paye at 14th overall. Paye, who was originally taken 21st overall by the Indianapolis Colts in the actual 2021 draft, has had a solid, albeit not spectacular, start to his NFL career.

He's proven to be a reliable pass rusher and run defender for the Colts, demonstrating the talent that made him a first-round pick.

The controversy arises precisely because of Darrisaw's outstanding play. To suggest the Vikings would, or should, pass on a player who has already proven to be an elite talent at a premium position for a player who, while good, hasn't reached the same heights, feels like a bold and perhaps unjustified re-evaluation.

Vikings fans have grown accustomed to Darrisaw's dominant presence, and the idea of swapping him out for anyone, let alone a player picked seven spots later in the original draft, is a tough pill to swallow.

While re-drafts are designed to correct perceived mistakes or highlight hidden gems, this particular scenario challenges the notion of what truly constitutes a 'better' pick.

Darrisaw's trajectory and impact for the Vikings have been undeniable, making PFF's alternative choice a stark reminder of how subjective and debatable these retrospective analyses can be. It certainly makes for intriguing conversation, but for Vikings faithful, the comfort of knowing they have Darrisaw protecting their quarterback remains far more appealing than any re-draft fantasy.