Everyone loves to talk about “positional value” when it comes to drafting, but what does that mean? Does it really matter?
In simple terms, positional value is defined as the value of a position based on where they are drafted or how much money they are being paid. For instance, a quarterback is drafted high and paid high because the value of that position is unmatched. A kicker, however, is usually drafted very late or undrafted and is not paid very much because of the value to the team. This does not mean the position doesn’t matter, but when looking at the grand scheme of a team and value they fall at the bottom.
One of the most significant factors in positional value is WAR(Wins above replacement). In 2022 the quarterback position garnered a WAR of 53.3. As we all know, QB is the most important position in football. As you look at certain positions and their value to a team, you start to understand the draft trends. Positions like QB, DE, DB, and WR are almost always taken at the beginning of the draft. These players make the most significant difference on the field. They are considered “premium positions”. These positions make or break your team. That is why nobody blinks an eye when they are drafted high.
When a team like the Lions draft a RB at 12 and a linebacker at 18, people scratch their heads. These positions hold less value than the others and are easily replaceable. This doesn’t mean that every highly drafted player with low positional value is the wrong pick, but it is a good guideline to observe as a fan watching the draft.
In the 2023 NFL draft, the Vikings selected Jordan Addison(WR), Mekhi Blackmon(CB), and Jay Ward(S) with their first three picks. All three of these positions rank in the top 5 for WAR and positional value in the draft. Meaning that at the value of these picks, the Vikings struck gold. These players’ impact on the game makes them some of the most irreplaceable and worthwhile players in the league.
Kwesi Adofo-Mensah played into his strong suit in this draft, analytics. He leaned into what the stats and numbers said. From a value standpoint, the Vikings hit big.
For all things Vikings and more, keep it right here on NFCNorthReport
