Vikings strike trade with Colts, take Andrew Booth Jr. at No. 42

The Minnesota Vikings selected Clemson cornerback Andrew Booth Jr. in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft after trading up to No. 42 overall.

The Indianapolis Colts traded Nos. 42 and 122 for the Vikings' Nos. 53, 77, and 192.

Booth was projected to be a late first-round pick during most of the lead-up to the draft after a standout career with the Tigers.

He started 25 games across three seasons and racked up five interceptions in his final two campaigns.

Booth is Minnesota's second addition to its secondary after safety Lewis Cine, who the team selected at No. 32 following a move back from 12th with the Detroit Lions.

Scouting profile: Andrew Booth Jr.

Evaluators considering Booth a top corner prospect after just one season as a full-time starter should tell you everything you need to know about his upside. He'll need some more time to fine-tune his craft, so he could be more of a long-term play than an instant impact star, but the potential payoff is readily apparent. Booth is a fluid athlete who has no issues in confined spaces, and his ability to make difficult plays on the ball is particularly impressive. Add in the downhill aggression that makes him an ideal run defender on the outside, and you've got the makings of an extremely well-rounded defensive back.