I didn't set out to make it a "mock draft day" on this page, but a theme has emerged. In his latest NFL mock draft — version 2.0, for those of you scoring at home — Mel Kiper Jr. has an intriguing and familiar name landing with the Vikings at No. 25: Antoine Winfield Jr.

He of course has dual local connections, as one of the defensive stars with seven interceptions for the Gophers and as the son of ex-Vikings standout Antoine Winfield.

Writes Kiper: "While interceptions can sometimes be misleading as a projection tool for prospects, he was more than a ball hawk; he also had 88 tackles, three sacks and two forced fumbles. Winfield showed great range and instincts at the position, and I really liked watching his 2019 tape."

The Vikings had one of the NFL's best safety tandems in Harrison Smith and Anthony Harris, but as Kiper notes they could need a cheaper replacement for Harris if he departs via free agency.

Read Michael Rand's blog at startribune.com/randball. michael.rand@startribune.com.