Vikings Did Well Taking Chance on Christian Ballard

By Gabe Zaldivar

May 1, 2011

2011 NFL Draft Grades are in for the Minnesota Vikings. Their fourth round pick for Christian Ballard stole the show.

The Vikings found not only a starter in the fourth round, they found someone who will make the rest of the defensive attack better.

Ballard is a hard working end that loves the game. If there was something he loved more, it would be getting to the quarterback. His high motor will command a lot of attention on the line.

He is a bit inconsistent. If he can find some measure of a rhythm at the line, the Vikings may have the biggest value pick of the draft.

Ballard has the power and speed to be a top-tier producer. If he can find that perfect mix of skill and maturity, the Vikings will be very glad they took a shot at him in the fourth.