One of the most celebrated transfers of the offseason, Scourton returned to his home state of Texas after leading the Big Ten with 10 sacks a year ago at Purdue (among his 50 overall stops, including 15 tackles for loss). At 6-foot-4 and 280 pounds, Scourton combines prototypical size with good snap anticipation and power.
Minnesota's interior defensive line lacks a consistent presence, and Harrison Phillips is entering the final year of his contract. Graham is a rugged, heavy-handed run defender and disruptive pass-rusher. He had 7.5 tackles for loss and three sacks last season, and he'd fit great with defensive coordinator Brian Flores' scheme.
The Vikings are going to need as many pass rushers as possible in a division featuring quarterbacks Caleb Williams, Jordan Love and Jared Goff. After spending his first two years at linebacker for the Nittany Lions, Carter is moving to edge next season, where he can utilize his special movement ability to rush the passer. The Micah Parsons comparisons will be unavoidable.
The Irish coaches say it was clear from the moment Morrison arrived in South Bend that he is an alpha. With his size and athletic profile, he stays attached to routes and has a great feel for finding the football.
Minnesota made nice mid-round cornerback selections over the past two years. Here, they take a top-tier talent in Notre Dame's Benjamin Morrison. He posted an 84.6 coverage grade in 2023, breaking up eight passes and intercepting three more along the way.
J.T. Tuimoloau has been a multiple-year starter at Ohio State, racking up 17.5 tackles for a loss over and 8.5 sacks during the last two seasons. He's got great size and could reduce inside in nickel situations. He should be in for a massive season in Year 4.
The 6-0, 186-pound Morrison has been a standout from the outset of his time with the Fighting Irish, recording nine interceptions in the last two years. Cornerback has been a sore spot for the Vikings for a while, but Minnesota has had to deal with higher-order priorities in pivoting at quarterback and retooling its pass rush.
Burke embraces press-man coverage, he stays in phase -- and in position to challenge for the ball at the catch point -- and plays with physicality throughout route.
