Minnesota Vikings have had the 23rd pick in the NFL draft 5 times

For the first instance of the Minnesota Vikings having the 23rd selection in the NFL draft, we have to travel all the way back before the AFL/NFL merger. The year was 1965 and the Vikings were in just their fifth year of existence. That year the 23rd pick occurred in the second round, and the Vikings had two selections prior to 23, taking Notre Dame wide receiver Jack Snow and Illinois offensive tackle Archie Sutton.

With the 23rd pick, Minnesota kept it on offense, taking Oklahoma wide receiver Lance Rentzel. Rentzel’s time with the Vikings was short, only lasting two seasons with the team. While in Minnesota, Rentzel made two starts and had just two receptions for 10 yards. Rentzel would then go on to the Dallas Cowboys, where he would have three straight seasons over 900 yards and make one second-team All-Pro.