Jake Locker

The first round of the NFL draft is tonight and the Vikings hold the 12th overall pick. Carolina will select first and is expected to take Auburn quarterback Cam Newton. Vikings Vice President of Player Personnel Rick Spielman says the Vikings are more likely to trade down than trade up but they may keep that pick and make a selection.

The Vikings have the 12th overall pick in Thursday night's NFL draft. Most experts thought quarterback Jake Locker of Washington would be a reach for them with the 12th pick but now Locker may be gone when the Vikings pick. Both Tennessee and Washington are reportedly interested in taking Locker. Tennessee has the 8th pick while Washington has the 10th pick.

The Vikings will embark on a critical NFL draft in 10 days. Minnesota has the 12th overall pick in the first round and drafting a quarterback is a priority for this team. Most experts expect Cam Newton and Blaine Gabbert, the top two quarterbacks available, to be taken prior to #12.