NFL draft

* MINNESOTA: If the Vikings can pull off a trade with Kansas City for defensive end Jared Allen, they likely would have to give up at least their first-round pick. The rationale: Allen is better than any player they could get at that position, anyway. Pass rusher is a glaring area of need for Minnesota, although the Vikings need help at safety and cornerback, and more depth on the offensive line.

* GREEN BAY: Other than the retirement of Brett Favre, and the trade of defensive tackle Corey Williams to Cleveland, the Packers are intact everywhere else. That doesn’t mean they don’t have needs, though. They could use a cornerback or two to back up thirtysomethings Al Harris and Charles Woodson; an outside linebacker; a tight end; and more help on the offensive line.

* CHICAGO: The Bears are old on the offensive line and would love to move John Tait from left tackle to right. If they could land Pittsburgh tackle Jeff Otah with the 14th pick, they likely would go that route. Chicago is also looking at USC guard Chilo Rachal, but could probably get him in a lower round. The Bears could also use help at receiver and running back, and there’s always the quarterback question: How long will they stick with Rex Grossman?

* DETROIT: The Lions have the later-than-usual 15th pick, which means they probably won’t be able to get a top-notch offensive tackle, which is what they sorely need. They should be able to get a very good running back, however, and they could also use one of those. There are other pressing needs, namely defensive end and middle linebacker. Basically, Detroit can use help all over, which probably means it will grab the best available player on the board.

* NEXT: AFC North. For more, including Farmer’s mock draft, go to latimes.com/nfl.