​Summer has arrived, and with it comes the season fans love most: Summer Scouting. Each year, we kick off Summer Scouting to give Vikings supporters a preview of college football, highlighting players to watch in the fall and offering insight into potential needs for Minnesota. Will we spotlight quarterbacks, offensive tackles, or edge rushers? Absolutely. The point is simple: these players will be drafted by NFL teams, just like players at every other position. It all comes down to where they end up—whether with the Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. Our goal is to help Vikings fans stay as informed as possible. So, if you’re still with us, dive into our latest Summer Scouting report as we gear up for the fall.
Film
Iowa
Ohio
Background Info
– Listed at 6-6, 223 lbs
– 3-star recruit per 247Sports
– Played basketball in high school
– NYCHSFL AAA Defensive Player of the Year in high school
– Transferred from Rutgers to California
Notable career stats heading into 2026
– 13.7% target share of the passing offense
– 111 receptions
– 1,668 receiving yards
Notable numbers from PFF heading into 2026
– 4.1 yards after contact per reception
– 2.09 yards per route run
– Average depth of target: 13 yards
– 6 drops
– 43 contested catches
Strengths
– Incredible concentration, makes contested catches and maintains possession through contact
– Excellent size and strength for the position
– Strong body control when tracking the ball
– Reliable hands
Player Summary
Strong brings a versatile toolkit and should be a enjoyable component of the Golden Bear offense in 2026. With a solid foundation—body control, reliable hands, and ample size—he has the potential to become a standout receiver in his class. He uses his traits to make plays downfield and to fend off defenders at the line or once he’s attacking the ball. His standout body control allows him to adjust to passes and time them well enough to keep defenders from gaining the upper hand. This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 2027 NFL Draft Summer Scouting Report: Ian Strong, WR, California