Vikings Defensive Coordinator Tips Hand on Favorite DE Rookie Prospect

Minnesota Vikings co-defensive coordinator, Andre Patterson, has a reputation in purple and gold circles as an “EDGE whisperer.” The 60-year-old Patterson — also the team’s assistant head coach — is credited with cultivating talents like Danielle Hunter, Linval Joseph, Everson Griffen, and Ifeadi Odenigbo since joining the franchise in 2014.

Inside the 2021 NFL Draft two weeks ago, general manager Rick Spielman found a couple of new prospects for Patterson to develop. The first was Patrick Jones II, a defensive end from the University of Pittsburgh. Jones is a former teammate of Minnesota’s right tackle, Brian O’Neill. He was the Vikings fifth pick of the event, following in order the…