The Alec Lewis Show Yahoo! Sports’s Nate Tice talks Kyler Murray, fit with Kevin O’Connell and 2026 Vikings draft plan: Ep. 152 | Presented by First Resource Bank
Mar 25, 2026
Nate Tice, NFL writer and quarterback scout for Yahoo Sports and co-host of Football 301. He breaks down Kyler Murray’s fit with Kevin O’Connell and what Murray’s tape suggests. He outlines how a low-cost veteran QB could free resources. He previews Minnesota’s draft approach, preferring move-back strategies and targets on defense and day-two value.
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Don't Draft Simpson Or Nussmeier In Round One
- Avoid taking Ty Simpson or Garrett Nussmeier in Round One; target them on Day Two when their limitations and upside align with backup-to-starter roles.
- Tice grades both as late second/early third round prospects due to size, injury history, and limited starts.
Kyler Murray Is A Better Fit Than Public Perception
- Kyler Murray is undervalued but still a top-half NFL starter who fits Kevin O'Connell's offense.
- Nate Tice notes Kyler ranked 18th in EPA/play and had a 46% drop-back success rate across full seasons, showing reliable production when healthy.
Scheme Adjustments Can Hide Kyler's Height Limits
- The middle-of-field and between-the-numbers passing is a real concern for Kyler with Kevin O'Connell's scheme.
- Tice emphasizes KOC will adapt concepts (like throwing overs/outbreakers) to put Murray in space instead of forcing throws into tight seams.