Vikings 2024 NFL draft scouting report: Alabama EDGE Dallas Turner

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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

Dallas Turner

• Alabama

• Height-6040

• Weight-242 lbs

• Third-year Junior

• 5-Star recruit per 247 Sports

• Stats: 120 tackles, 58 solo, 32.5 tackles for loss, 22.5 sacks, 117 pressures, 1 pass defended, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries

• Games watched: Texas 2023, Ole Miss 2023, LSU 2023

Strengths

Turner is built like an edge rusher. He is all and long while filled with power. He generates power with ease and has good hand placement to drive back blockers.

Has some pass-rush moves in his arsenal. Speed to power, push/pull, long arm, club/rip

Does a really good job setting the edge. Holds the offensive tackle on the edge relatively easily and prevents the runner from getting around the edge and turning upfield.

Turner has position versatility. He can stand up, put his hand in the dirt and drop into coverage. With his length, he could have the ability to be a stand up rusher in the A-gap.

Weaknesses

While Turner does a good job with power, he struggles at times once he gets into the blocker. Length gives him a lot of trouble, mainly due to his lack of pass rush plan. When he gets locked up, Turner doesn’t have an answer on how to respond more often than not. When Turner gets stood up on the edge, he doesn’t shed blocks consistently to attack a passing ball carrier.

Is a good athlete with size but doesn’t have a lot of bend. Struggles to win on the outside by taking the edge.

Despite having multiple pass rush moves on tape, the only move that looks to be developed is speed to power. There are tools to work with but they need developing.

Overview

The idea of what Turner is as a prospect is good. What he needs is time to develop with a good defensive line coach. There are a lot of appealing things to work with but it’s not quite all the way there.

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Story originally appeared on Vikings Wire