The Vikings have officially signed their entire draft class. The team announced that they’ve inked seventh-round running back DeWayne McBride to his four-year rookie pact.
McBride spent three years at UAB, including a 2022 campaign where he earned C-USA Offensive Player of the Year honors after collecting 1,723 yards from scrimmage and 19 touchdowns. This performance followed a breakout 2021 season where he rushed for more than 1,300 yards and scored 13 touchdowns.
His fumbling issues and lack of pass-catching ability led to him slipping to the seventh round of the draft. Fortunately for the rookie, he could have a chance to contribute with Dalvin Cook potentially out the door. Alexander Mattison would likely get the starting role if/when Cook is gone, but McBride could compete with 2022 fifth-round pick Ty Chandler for backup reps.
The Vikings finished the draft having selected six rookies, and each of those first-year players have now been signed to contracts. That grouping includes:
- Round 1, No. 23: Jordan Addison, WR (USC) (signed)
- Round 3, No. 102 (from 49ers): Mekhi Blackmon, CB (USC) (signed)
- Round 4, No. 134 (from Chiefs): Jay Ward, S (LSU) (signed)
- Round 5, No. 141 (from Raiders through Colts): Jaquelin Roy, DT (LSU) (signed)
- Round 5, No. 164 (from 49ers): Jaren Hall, QB (BYU) (signed)
- Round 7, No. 222 (from Broncos through 49ers): DeWayne McBride, RB (UAB)
With McBride under contract, Dalvin Cook could be released any day now, according to unnamed sources who spoke on condition of anonymity.