The Vikings added depth to their defensive front over draft weekend.
Minnesota on Saturday selected Georgia defensive lineman Tyrion (pronounced TY-ree-ahn) Ingram-Dawkins with the 139th overall pick of the 2025 NFL Draft.
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SKOLLLLLLLLL 💛💛💜💜
— Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins (@TID9ine3) April 26, 2025
Last season for the Bulldogs, he logged career bests of 17 tackles, 3.0 sacks, eight tackles for loss and two pass breakups, earning invites to the Reese’s Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine. Ingram-Dawkins was Georgia’s only defensive lineman invited to the Senior Bowl.
He enthusiastically told Twin Cities media members via videoconference he “fell in love” with the Vikings organization, facilities and coaching staff during a Top 30 visit this spring.
“I’m excited to get up there and work with them,” Ingram-Dawkins said. “I’m very excited to get up to Minnesota and get in that Brian Flores defense.”
Here are five things to know about the Vikings new defensive lineman:
The Minnesota Vikings selected Georgia defensive lineman Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins with the 139th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Here are five key things to know about the versatile and athletic addition to the Vikings’ defensive front.
1. A Versatile and Athletic Defender
Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, pronounced TY-ree-ahn, brings a rare combination of size, strength, and athleticism to the Vikings’ defense. Standing at 6’5” and weighing 276 pounds, he has the frame to play multiple positions along the defensive line, from edge rusher to interior tackle. His explosive first step and agility were on full display at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, where he recorded a 4.86-second 40-yard dash, a 1.69-second 10-yard split (fastest among defensive tackles), a 36-inch vertical jump, and a 10’4” broad jump, earning a 9.79 Relative Athletic Score (RAS). This athletic profile makes him a scheme-versatile prospect who can fit into various roles in Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores’ creative defensive schemes.
2. A Late Bloomer with High Potential
Ingram-Dawkins was a highly recruited four-star prospect out of Gaffney High School in South Carolina, ranked as the No. 107 overall prospect in the 2021 class. However, his college career at Georgia was marked by limited playing time early on due to a stacked defensive line and a foot injury that sidelined him for much of the 2023 season. He emerged as a starter in 2024, recording career highs of 19 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, and 3.0 sacks across 14 games. While his production was modest, his flashes of dominance and elite athletic traits suggest significant upside. NFL analysts describe him as a “project” with the tools to develop into a high-impact player with proper coaching.
3. Two-Time National Champion with Georgia
During his four years at the University of Georgia, Ingram-Dawkins contributed to two national championships (2021 and 2022) under head coach Kirby Smart. Playing in a rotational role behind first-round talents like Travon Walker and Mykel Williams, he appeared in 37 games with 10 starts, totaling 37 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, 4.0 sacks, and two forced fumbles. His experience in Georgia’s elite defensive system, combined with his work ethic, has prepared him for the NFL. Georgia coach Kirby Smart praised Ingram-Dawkins’ maturity and growth, noting his ability to seize opportunities when given a larger role in 2024.
4. Hometown Connection to a Vikings Legend
Ingram-Dawkins hails from Gaffney, South Carolina, the same hometown as former Vikings wide receiver Sidney Rice, a second-round pick in 2007 who had a standout 1,312-yard season in 2009. Ingram-Dawkins shares a close relationship with Rice, as their families know each other, and both attended Gaffney High School. Ingram-Dawkins expressed excitement about joining the Vikings, citing Rice’s legacy with the organization as a source of pride for their community. This connection adds a personal layer to his arrival in Minnesota, as he aims to represent his hometown on a bigger stage.
5. A Perfect Fit for Brian Flores’ Defense
The Vikings targeted Ingram-Dawkins for his versatility and athleticism, qualities that align perfectly with Brian Flores’ aggressive and flexible defensive approach. During a pre-draft Top 30 visit to Minnesota, Ingram-Dawkins fell in love with the team’s facilities and coaching staff, particularly admiring how Flores utilizes his defenders. He joins a revamped defensive line featuring veterans Jonathan Allen, Javon Hargrave, and Harrison Phillips, providing an ideal environment to develop. Ingram-Dawkins has expressed a willingness to learn from these experienced players, focusing on refining his technique and instincts to earn a role in the rotation.
Outlook
Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins may not contribute immediately, given his raw skill set and the Vikings’ veteran-laden defensive line. However, his elite athleticism, versatility, and high character make him an exciting Day 3 pick with the potential to become a significant contributor. As he develops under Brian Flores and learns from established pros, Ingram-Dawkins could prove to be a steal for the Vikings in the 2025 NFL Draft.