Minnesota Vikings Top 30 Visits

In advance of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings hosted several prospects at the spectacular TCO Performance Center over the weekend. Each team is allowed to bring to their facilities 30 of the draft’s prospects. These little “meet and greets” have come to be called “Top 30” visits. It’s a bit of a misnomer as the visits aren’t necessarily with the top players on each team’s draft board. Team’s just want to get to know these players a bit better, meet a little longer. Thanks to many dedicated draft sleuths, it’s been reported that the following players visited with the Vikings this weekend.

Minnesota Vikings Top 30 Visits

Demond Claiborne, RB, Wake Forest

Jonah Coleman, RB. Washington

Emmett Johnson, RB, Nebraska

Vinny Anthony II, WR, Wisconsin

Jeff Caldwell, WR, Cincinnati

CJ Daniels, WR, Miami

Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State

De’Zhaun Stribling, WR, Mississippi

Oscar Delp, TE, Georgia

Lance Mason, TE, Wisconsin

Triston Leigh, OL, Clemson

Shiyazh Pete, OL, Kentucky

Uar Bernard, DL, no college

Darrell Jackson, DL, Florida State

Domonique Orange, DL, Iowa State

Mason Reiger, Edge, Wisconsin

Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati

Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas

Cole Wisniewski, S, Texas Tech

I’m not sure of the exact statistics but it feels like a couple, maybe a few, of the players that make these pre-draft visits are selected by the Vikings in the draft or are signed after the draft. So, a few of the above will soon be calling Minnesota home. That’s exciting as I really like several of these players. That starts with the running backs and receivers. Jonah Coleman, Emmitt Johnson, and Demond Claiborne are at the top of my running backs wish list. Receiver Ted Hurst is one of my favorite Day 2 players regardless of position. As for defense, the Vikings could use a run-stuffer. Domonique Orange and Darrell Jackson are two of best in the draft at stuffing the run. Jake Golday and Anthony Hill Jr. are two of the best linebackers in the draft. It’s a damn shame that the Vikings have only three Day 2 picks. They need five to secure Emmett Johnson, Ted Hurst, Domonique Orange, Jake Golday, and a center.

Speaking of center. The Vikings bringing no centers to TCO Performance Center might be the biggest surprise of the weekend visits. I’m guessing that the Vikings are keeping their interests in that position a secret. In my opinion, and many share it, the Vikings must come out of Day 2 with their franchise center. 

As for some of the potential Day 3 players, safety Cole Wisniewski and edge Mason Reiger intrigue me the most. The freakishly talented Uar Bernard is certainly a curiosity. His natural explosion sure has caused a stir in talent evaluation circles. Is his untapped potential enough for a team to use a late-round pick? Or is he destined to be an undrafted project? Who knows? I do know that I wouldn’t mind if the Vikings took a swing at Bernard’s remarkable potential. 

None of the 19 players listed have any first-round steam. Several are projected to be selected on Day 2, a handful on Day 3, and a few are more likely priority free agents. News came yesterday that the Vikings are bringing in a player this week that will most certainly be selected in the first round. Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq is coming to Minnesota this week. The Vikings selecting the explosive play-maker at #18 has many fans. I’m not sure if I’m one of them. While I wouldn’t protest the pick, I just see more and greater needs on defense. I also see running back and receiver as greater needs than tight end on offense. 

There are so many events in the annual draft evaluation process. It starts with the all-star games, on to the Scouting Combine, and then the Pro Days. The player visits, in particular the “Top 30” visits, are the final event. Only the Draft remains. That can’t get here soon enough. Nine more days. 

Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft Monday

It’s a Monday closer to the real draft. Only one more Monday after this one. Thankfully, the 2026 NFL Draft is almost here. It’s time for another Minnesota Vikings mock draft. 

All of these mock drafts are done with Pro Football Focus’s draft simulator. So, I’m at the mercy of their player rankings. With top draft evaluators like the Athletic’s Dane Brugler, ESPN’s Matt Miller, and NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah releasing their “final” rankings, it’s interesting to see that PFF’s evaluations often don’t match those that have been doing this a long time. It’s safe to say that they won’t match how NFL teams see the players either. PFF is what I have so I’m forced to mock with their rankings. This is what I got this week.

1. Keldric Faulk, DL, Auburn

2. Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State

3. Connor Lew, C, Auburn

3. Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State

5. Demond Claiborne, RB, Wake Forest

6. Tanner Kozoil, TE, Houston

7. Max Dredeson, TE/FB, Michigan

7. Micah Morris, G, Georgia

7. Jakobe Thomas, S, Florida

This is one of my favorites of the Monday mocks. Keldric Faulk has emerged as one of my top choices for the 18th pick. He and Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman are currently running as my top picks. At 6’6” and about 280 lbs, Faulk is the biggest of the draft’s top edge rushers. He has the frame to add even more size. An edge rusher for most teams, I think the Vikings might see him as a defensive tackle in their defense. 

I don’t think there’s any chance for Chris Johnson to be available for the Vikings in the second round. But, it’s fun to dream. The Vikings need a center. It’s nice timing as there are a handful of centers in this draft that project as early starters in the NFL. It’s expected that they’ll come off the board as early as the second round and into the third. Connor Lew has emerged as my favorite and I’d be thrilled if he’s the pick with one of their Day 2 picks. I believe that the Vikings will select a receiver and/or a running back on Day 2. Ted Hurst is easily my favorite Day 2 receiver. If a running back isn’t one of the picks in the second and third rounds, Demond Claiborne would be an excellent option on Day 3. With no pick in the fourth round, I’d be hoping that he’s available in the fifth round. 

The final four picks in this mock draft include a couple late-round staples in Houston tight end Tanner Kozoil and Michigan blocker Max Bredeson. The mock newcomers are Georgia guard Micah Morris and Florida safety Jakobe Thomas. I’d like to see the Vikings add some offensive line depth. Tackle is probably the priority but Morris is difficult to pass on in the seventh round. I believe that he goes much earlier on Day 3. I also believe that the Vikings will address safety earlier than the seventh round in the real draft. Thomas is a nice late-round option. 

Until the next, and last, one. 

Possible Minnesota Vikings Picks

The 2026 NFL Draft is creeping closer. As it’s creeped closer, the Athletic released Dane Bugler’s “The Beast.” It’s brilliant as usual. Many of the other top talent evaluators have released their “final” rankings. ESPN’s Matt Miller is one of those evaluators. He released his ranking of the top 482 players on Friday. With nine picks in the draft, the Minnesota Vikings are projected to select nine of those players. Since Miller has taken his rankings well past the 256 players that will be selected, a few more of 482 may be coming to Minnesota as undrafted free agents. 

The nine picks currently held by the Vikings:

1(18)

2(49)

3(82)

3(97)

5(163)

6(196)

7(234)

7(235)

7(244)

As things stand, I’m going to miss that fourth round pick. It always sucks to sit out an entire round. It especially sucks when that round is the first round of Day 3. Still, it’s better than sitting out the second round. The Vikings have been sitting out second rounds since 2022. Finally having a second-round pick is a beautiful thing.

Using Matt Miller’s rankings, this is a look at some of the players that the Vikings could select at each of their nine picks.

1. Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon

2. Jaishawn Barham, LB, Michigan

3. Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State

3. Connor Lew, C, Auburn

5. Jonah Coleman, RB, Washington

6. Kaleb Proctor, DT, Southeastern Louisiana 

7. Kaden Wetjen, WR, Iowa

7. Andre Fuller, CB, Toledo

7. Tim Keenan III, DT, Alabama

The one problem, perhaps only problem, I have with the above draft haul is the lack of a cornerback before the seventh round. That problem is easily solved by swapping Jaishawn Barham for one of several corners available in the second round. Edge isn’t an immediate need but Barham is a particular favorite. I wish that Andrew Van Ginkel could play forever. Since he can’t, Barham projects as a similarly versatile defender. Perhaps, he could learn some of the nuances of Van Ginkel’s game in their time together. It’s tough to give up Barham but he is something of a luxury pick. Keionte Scott, Treydan Stukes, or Keith Abney II might be more responsible picks. 

I love the Day 1 and Day 2 picks. I’m stunned that Matt Miller has Jonah Coleman and Kaleb Proctor projected as fifth- and sixth-round picks. I often try to find ways to select both players in the third round. I’m rarely able to secure those two and the very-much needed center. 

Other than Andre Fuller, I’d project all of the above players as immediate contributors. I’d be very happy with this draft. 

Draft Night Invites

Sixteen prospects have accepted invites to the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. 

David Bailey, Edge, Texas Tech

Rueben Bain Jr., Edge, Miami

Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU

Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

Keldric Faulk, Edge, Auburn

Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee

Makai Lemon, WR, USC

Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame

Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami

Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State

Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama

Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State

Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama

Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State

Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State

With their life-long dreams becoming real, it’s a big night for the 16 prospects. Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza will be celebrating his likely #1 selection with family at home in Miami. 

With nearly a third of the invites, Ohio State players are expected to dominate the first night of the draft. 

Caleb Downs

Kadyn McDonald

Arvell Reese

Sonny Styles

Carnell Tate

All but Kadyn McDonald should be among the first ten selections. They may even be among the first six or seven selections. 

Perhaps the most curious of the 16 invites is Tennessee corner Colton Hood. He may be one of the best cornerbacks in the draft but he isn’t the top-ranked cornerback on his own college team. The top-ranked Volunteers corner is Jermod McCoy. He should challenge LSU’s Mansoor Delane as the first corner selected and will surely be off the board before the draft is half complete. Hood should hear his name in the second half of the first round. Or early on Day 2. 

If Colton Hood is selected in the first round, I believe the Green Room will be empty at the start of Day 2. Depending on the ranker, Ty Simpson might be the lowest ranked of the 16. It shouldn’t surprise if the second quarterback in this draft is selected in the first round. The NFL is all about the quarterback. 

Congratulations to the 16 prospects on the invites to their big night. 

Minnesota VIkings Second Round Draft History

Yesterday was a look at the first round draft history of the Minnesota Vikings. Today, it’s the second round. Over 65 drafts, the Vikings have selected 61 players in the second round. Here are those second round selections:

1961: Rip Hawkins, LB, North Carolina

1962: No Pick

1963: Bobby Bell, LB, Minnesota

1964: Hal Bedsole, TE, USC

1965: Archie Sutton, OT, Illinois

          Lance Rentzel, RB, Oklahoma

1966: Jim Lindsey, RB, Arkansas

1967: Bob Grim, WR, Oregon State

1968: Charlie West, DB, Texas-El Paso

1969: Ed White, G, California

1970: Bill Cappleman, QB, Florida State

1971: No Pick

1972: Ed Marinaro, RB, Cornell

1973: Jackie Wallace, DB, Arizona

1974: John Holland, WR, Tennessee State

          Matt Blair, LB, Iowa State

1975: Art Riley, DT, USC

1976: Sammy White, WR, Grambling

1977: Dennis Swilley, C, Texas A&M

1978: John Turner, CB, Miami

1979: Dave Huffman, C, Notre Dame

1980: Willie Teal, CB, LSU

1981: Mardye McDole, WR, Mississippi

          Robin Sendlein, LB, Texas

          Jarvis Redwine, RB, Nebraska

1982: Terry Tausch, OT, Texas

1983: No Pick

1984: No Pick

1985: Issiac Holt, CB Alcorn State

1986: No Pick

1987: Ray Berry, LB, Baylor

1988: Brad Edwards, S, South Carolina

1989: David Braxton, LB, Wake Forest

1990: No Pick

1991: No Pick

1992: Robert Harris, DE, Southern

1993: Qadry Ismail, WR, Syracuse

1994: David Palmer, RB/WR, Alabama

1995: Orlando Thomas, S, SW Louisiana

          Corey Fuller, CB, Florida State

1996: James Manley, DT, Vanderbilt

1997: Torian Gray, S, Virginia Tech

1998: Kailee Wong, LB, Stanford

1999: Jim Kleinsasser, TE, North Dakota

2000: Fred Robbins, DT Wake Forest

          Michael Boireau, DE, Miami

2001: Willie Howard, DT, Stanford

2002: Raonall Smith, LB, Washington State

2003: E.J. Henderson, LB, Maryland

2004: Dontarrious Thomas, LB, Auburn

2005: Marcus Johnson, G, Mississippi

2006: Cedric Griffin, CB, Texas

          Ryan Cook, C, New Mexico

          Tarvaris Jackson, QB, Alabama State

2007: Sidney Rice, WR, South Carolina

2008: Tyrell Johnson, S, Arkansas State

2009: Phil Loadholt, OT, Oklahoma

2010: Chris Cook, CB, Virginia

          Toby Gerhart, RB, Stanford

2011: Kyle Rudolph, TE, Notre Dame

2012: No Pick

2013: No Pick

2014: No Pick

2015: Eric Kendricks, LB, UCLA

2016: Mackensie Alexander, CB, Clemson

2017: Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State

2018: Brian O’Neill, T, Pittsburgh

2019: Irv Smith Jr., TE, Alabama

2020: Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State

2021: No Pick

2022: Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson

          Ed Ingram, G, LSU

2023: No Pick

2024: No Pick

2025: No Pick

A Breakdown:

Hall of Famers:

Bobby Bell

From 1960-65, the National Football League and upstart American Football League waged an annual recruiting war for college football players. Each league had a draft and then the race was on to get the players signed. Some unusual tactics were used. Some ran real close to kidnapping. The more established NFL usually had the edge but the AFL stole more than a few college stars. The recruiting and signing war was the reason for the NFL-AFL merger in 1966. From 1961-65, nearly all of the Vikings draft picks ended up in Minnesota. The big one that got away is Bobby Bell. He signed with the Kansas City Chiefs. Bell was the best outside linebacker of his era and one of the best outside linebackers of any era. His great career earned him a bust in Canton. I’ve spent many sleepless nights imagining Bobby Bell playing behind the great Purple People Eaters. Vikings history would be so different if Bell was a significant part of it. 

Hall of Fame adjacent is 1964 second-round pick Hal Bedsole. In 1967, the Vikings traded Bedsole, Tommy Mason, and a second round pick to the Los Angeles Rams for a first round pick. The Vikings used that first round pick to select Alan Page.

The Vikings Second Round By Position: 

Quarterbacks (2)

Bill Cappleman

Tarvaris Jackson

Running Backs (6)

Lance Rentzel - played receiver in the NFL

Jim Lindsey

Ed Marinaro

Jarvis Redwine

Toby Gerhart

Dalvin Cook

Receivers (7):

Bob Grim

John Holland

Sammy White

Mardye McDole

Qadry Ismail

David Palmer

Sidney Rice

Tight Ends (4):

Hal Bedsole

Jim Kleinsasser

Kyle Rudolph

Irv Smith Jr.

Offensive Linemen (11):

Archie Sutton

Ed White

Dennis Swilley

Dave Huffman

Terry Tausch

Marcus Johnson

Ryan Cook

Phil Loadholt

Brian O’Neill

Ezra Cleveland

Ed Ingram

Defensive Linemen (6):

Art Riley

Robert Harris

James Manley

Fred Robbins

Michael Boireau

Willie Howard

Linebackers (11):

Rip Hawkins

Bobby Bell

Matt Blair

Robin Sendlein

Ray Berry

David Braxton

Kailee Wong

Raonall Smith

E.J. Henderson

Dontarrious Smith

Eric Kendricks

Defensive Backs (14):

Charlie West

Jackie Wallace

John Turner

Willie Teal

Issiac Holt

Brad Edwards

Orlando Thomas

Corey Fuller

Torian Gray

Cedric Griffin

Tyrell Johnson

Chris Cook

Mackensie Alexander

Andrew Booth Jr.

Some Second Round Observations:

In 1981, the Vikings traded the 12th pick in the 1981 NFL Draft to the Baltimore Colts for two second round picks and a fifth round pick. As a result, the Vikings had three picks in the second round. No first round pick. But three second round picks. At the time, I had mixed feelings about this trade. I could understand adding a couple more shots at picking a keeper(s). I just wasn’t sure if two seconds and a fifth equaled the 12th pick. Before the second round, I didn’t like the trade. After the second round, I liked the trade. 

Mardye McDole

Robin Sendlein

Jarvis Redwine

Mardye McDole was a receiver I liked at the 12th pick. The Vikings got him with the 39th pick. I also liked what I’d seen of Robin Sendlein and Jarvis Redwine in college. McDole, Sendlein, and Redwine played a combined 10 seasons for the Vikings. McDole did little. Sendlein started a handful of games. Redwine was a decent returner for a couple years. Hindsight makes things even more painful as Mike Singletary, Howie Long, and Rickey Jackson were second round picks that year. Russ Grimm went in the third. All four ended their great careers in Canton. The Vikings could’ve selected at least a couple of them. Hindsight is fun. 

During the 1983 season, the Vikings traded their 1984 second round pick for Archie Manning. The Chicago Bears damn near killed Manning in a game during the 1984 season. He retired after that season. History will hold Peyton and Eli as better quarterbacks but Archie was the more talented quarterback. History would be kinder to Archie Manning if he didn’t have to start his career with such a shit New Orleans Saints team.

The second round can be a tease. It’s close enough to the top of the draft that it’s expected to be something like a 1a. In reality, it’s more of a crap shoot than the first round and the first round is already a crap shoot. 

One of the best examples of the second round being a tease is 2002 second round pick Raonall Smith. I saw him several times while he played at Washington State. He was a terrific football player, a first round talent, and a steal in the second round. Unfortunately, the touch of a feather could put him on IR. 

Matt Blair is the only second round pick in the Vikings Ring of Honor. Ed White should join him. Jim Kleinsasser and Kyle Rudolph should join him as well. 

Speaking of Matt Blair, several of my favorite Vikings players over the years have been selected in the second round. 

Ed White (I’ll always favor Cal players)

Matt Blair

Sammy White

Orlando Thomas

Jim Kleinsasser

E.J. Henderson

Sidney Rice

Kyle Rudolph

Eric Kendricks

Dalvin Cook

Brian O’Neill

The Vikings second round history is a mixed bag. As soon as I start thinking why bother and trade that second for a third and a fifth, the Vikings pull in a Matt Blair or a Jim Kleinsasser. Rip Hawkins was the first second round pick in franchise history. He became a defensive cornerstone at middle linebacker from 1961-65. He paved the way for Lonnie Warwick, Jeff Siemon, Scott Studwell, E.J. Henderson, and Eric Kendricks. Hawkins started a strong Vikings tradition of middle linebackers. I like many of the Vikings second round picks. I really like a few of them. If the Vikings had managed to pull Bobby Bell from the Chiefs, the Vikings second round history, and franchise history, would be a whole lot different. 

Minnesota Vikings First Round Draft History

The Minnesota Vikings have been taking part in the NFL Draft for 65 years. In those 65 drafts, the Vikings have selected 68 players in the first round. Here are those first round selections:

1961: Tommy Mason, RB, Tulane
1962: No Pick
1963: Jim Dunaway, DT, Mississippi
1964: Carl Eller, DE, Minnesota
1965: Jack Snow, WR, Notre Dame
1966: Jerry Shay, DT, Purdue
1967: Clinton Jones, RB, Michigan State
          Gene Washington, WR, Michigan State
          Alan Page, DT, Notre Dame
1968: Ron Yary, OT, USC
1969: No Pick
1970: John Ward, OT, Oklahoma State
1971: Leo Hayden, RB, Ohio State
1972: Jeff Siemon, LB, Stanford
1973: Chuck Foreman, RB, Miami
1974: Fred McNeill, LB, UCLA
          Steve Riley, OT, USC
1975: Mark Mullaney, DT, Colorado State
1976: James White, DT, Oklahoma State
1977: Tommy Kramer, QB, Rice
1978: Randy Holloway, DE, Pittsburgh
1979: Ted Brown, RB, North Carolina State
1980: Doug Martin, DE, Washington
1981: No Pick
1982: Darrin Nelson, RB, Stanford
1983: Joey Browner, S, USC
1984: Keith Millard, DE, Washington State
1985: Chris Doleman, LB, Pittsburgh
1986: Gerald Robinson, DE, Aubrun
1987: D.J. Dozier, RB, Penn State
1988: Randall McDaniel, OG, Arizona State
1989: No Pick
1990: No Pick
1991: No Pick
1992: No Pick
1993: Robert Smith, RB, Ohio State
1994: DeWayne Washington, CB, North Carolina State
          Todd Steussie, OT, California
1995: Derrick Alexander, DE, Florida State
          Korey Stringer, OT, Ohio State
1996: Duane Clemons, DE, California
1997: Dwayne Rudd, LB, Alabama
1998: Randy Moss, WR, Marshall
1999: Daunte Culpepper, QB, Central Florida
          Dimitrius Underwood, DE, Michigan State
2000: Chris Hovan, DT, Boston College
2001: Michael Bennett, RB, Wisconsin
2002: Bryant McKinnie, OT, Miami
2003: Kevin Williams, DT, Oklahoma State
2004: Kenechi Udeze, DE, USC
2005: Troy Williamson, WR, South Carolina
           Erasmus James, DE, Wisconsin
2006: Chad Greenway, LB, Iowa
2007: Adrian Peterson, RB, Oklahoma
2008: No Pick
2009: Percy Harvin, WR, Florida
2010: No Pick
2011: Christian Ponder, QB, Florida State
2012: Matt Kalil, OT, USC
          Harrison Smith, S, Notre Dame
2013: Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida
          Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State
          Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee
2014: Anthony Barr, LB, UCLA
          Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville
2015: Trae Waynes, CB, Michigan State
2016: Laquon Treadwell, WR, Mississippi
2017: No Pick
2018: Mike Hughes, CB, Central Florida
2019: Garrett Bradbury, C, North Carolina State
2020: Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
          Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
2021: Christian Darrisaw, OT, Virginia Tech
2022: Lewis Cine, S, Georgia

2023: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

2024: J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

          Dallas Turner, Edge, Alabama

2025: Donovan Jackson, G, Ohio State

A Breakdown:

Hall of Famers:
Carl Eller
Alan Page
Ron Yary
Chris Doleman
Randall McDaniel
Randy Moss

Adrian Peterson will soon join this list.

Kevin Williams should.

If I were to pick a past first round pick that hasn’t received the Hall of Fame consideration that he deserves, that player would be Chuck Foreman. There was a four-five year stretch in which he was arguably the best running back in the league. He was certainly the most versatile. He was such a fun back. 

Joey Browner and Keith Millard would be in Canton if injuries hadn’t whittled away at their career. 

By position:

Quarterbacks (5):
Tommy Kramer
Daunte Culpepper
Christian Ponder
Teddy Bridgewater

J.J. McCarthy

Running Backs (10):
Tommy Mason
Clinton Jones
Leo Hayden
Chuck Foreman
Ted Brown
Darrin Nelson
D.J. Dozier
Robert Smith
Michael Bennett
Adrian Peterson

Receivers (9):
Jack Snow
Gene Washington
Randy Moss
Troy Williamson
Percy Harvin
Cordarrelle Patterson
Laquon Treadwell
Justin Jefferson

Jordan Addison

Offensive Linemen (11):
Ron Yary
John Ward
Steve Riley
Randall McDaniel
Todd Steussie
Korey Stringer
Bryant McKinnie
Matt Kalil
Garrett Bradbury
Christian Darrisaw

Donovan Jackson

Defensive Linemen (18):
Jim Dunaway
Carl Eller
Jerry Shay
Alan Page
Mark Mullaney
James White
Randy Holloway
Doug Martin
Keith Millard
Gerald Robinson
Derrick Alexander
Duane Clemons
Dimitrius Underwood
Chris Hovan
Kevin Williams
Keneche Udeze
Erasmus James
Sharrif Floyd

Linebackers (7):
Jeff Siemon
Fred McNeill
Chris Doleman
Dwayne Rudd
Chad Greenway
Anthony Barr

Dallas Turner

Cornerbacks (5):
DeWayne Washington
Xavier Rhodes
Trae Waynes
Mike Hughes
Jeff Gladney

Safeties (3):
Joey Browner
Harrison Smith
Lewis Cine

It’s interesting that defensive line is by far the most popular first round position but a defensive lineman hasn’t been selected in the first round since 2013. While not technically a defensive lineman, the Vikings did address their pass rush in 2024 with the selection of outside linebacker Dallas Turner. 

During the NFL-AFL bidding wars of the 1960s, drafted players had options. They could sign with the established NFL team that drafted them or they could sign with the newbie AFL team that drafted them. The Vikings lost 1963 first-round pick Jim Dunaway to the Buffalo Bills. He developed into an integral player on one of the best defenses in the AFL. He would’ve paired quite nicely with Alan Page in the middle of Vikings defensive line. Or, maybe the Vikings don’t draft Page if Dunaway is already playing well on the line. We’ll never know. 

The Vikings traded 1965 first-round pick Jack Snow to the Los Angeles Rams before he ever played a snap in Minnesota. Despite playing college football in the Midwest at Notre Dame, I believe Snow didn’t like the snow and wanted to play professionally closer to his Southern California home. 

While I initially liked the selection of Lewis Cine. It’s no stretch to say that he’s fallen far short of the other two safeties the Vikings have selected in the first round. Joey Browner was and Harrison Smith continues to be outstanding. 

Picks that thrilled me to the point of hyperventilation:
Joey Browner
Randall McDaniel
Dwayne Rudd
RANDY MOSS
Chris Hovan
Bryant McKinnie
Chad Greenway
Adrian Peterson
Percy Harvin
Harrison Smith
Anthony Barr
Teddy Bridgewater
Justin Jefferson

J.J. McCarthy

Dallas Turner

The selection of Randy Moss in 1998 damn near killed me.

Then, there’s this one. 
I had watched a lot of Darrin Nelson at Stanford and he was a terrific back. I was thrilled when the Vikings drafted him but my thrill was muted a bit by the fact that Marcus Allen was still available. I hadn't seen as much of Allen in college as I'd seen of Nelson but I'd seen enough. I knew that Allen was going to be the better professional running back but I did really like the potential of Nelson’s versatility in the Vikings offense. 

Picks that disappointed so, so much as players:
Dwayne Rudd
Bryant McKinnie

I was thrilled when both players were drafted but I can't remember ever being thrilled watching either play. Dwayne Rudd put more energy into celebrating routine plays than he ever put into actually making plays. For the entirety of his career, Bryant McKinnie simply showed no energy and no interest while he was on the field. He made one Pro Bowl, probably because Brett Favre made him look better than he was, and was sent home before the game was even played. Who does that? McKinnie being sent home from the Pro Bowl was less surprising than his being selected for the game. I've never been one to hate the players that play for the team that I love but I hated seeing these two players play for the Vikings. I was thrilled when both were drafted but I was more thrilled when they left.

On eleven occasions, the Vikings made multiple picks in the first round. The success with those multiple picks is wide-ranging. There’s the high of selecting Clinton Jones, Gene Washington, and Alan Page in 1967. There’s the brutal low of selecting Troy Williamson and Erasmus James in 2005.

On nine occasions, the Vikings made no selections in the first round. Four of those were the rough draft years of 1989-92. The Vikings traded their 1989 first round pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers for linebacker Mike Merriweather. That was a good trade. The Vikings traded their 1990-92 first round picks, several other picks, and several players to the Dallas Cowboys for Herschel Walker. That was a bad trade. A very bad trade.  

As a youngster in California, I fell for the Vikings in the early 1970s. The first draft that I really remember following was the 1976 draft that brought James White (first round) and Sammy White (second round) to Minnesota. Thanks to the tremendous work during my formative years of Joel Buschbaum, Paul Zimmerman, and Mel Kiper, I gradually started to understand and appreciate the football fun of the NFL Draft. I look forward to every round of every draft but the first round, for obvious reasons, is always my favorite four hours of the NFL offseason. Especially those several minutes when the Minnesota Vikings are on the clock. 

Minnesota Vikings Pre-Draft Roster

The 2026 NFL Draft is two weeks from tomorrow. In advance of the fast approaching draft, here’s a look at the Minnesota Vikings depth at each position. 

Minnesota Vikings Pre-Draft Roster

Offense

Quarterbacks

Kyler Murray

J.J. McCarthy

Carson Wentz

Max Brosmer

The Vikings completely remade their quarterback room this offseason. That happens when a team is forced to field at least three quarterbacks two of the last three seasons. Both seasons were derailed when the third quarterback couldn’t reach a mediocre bar. The Vikings now have three quarterbacks that can win games. Quarterback isn’t a draft need. Maybe a late-round or undrafted project to challenge Max Brosmer.

Running Backs

Aaron Jones

Jordan Mason

Zavier Scott

With Aaron Jones back for one more season, running back isn’t an immediate need but it is need. I’d be surprised if the Vikings don’t come out of Day 2 with a running back. 

Receivers

Justin Jefferson

Jordan Addison

Tai Felton

Myles Price

Jeshaun Jones

Dontae Fleming

Joaquin Davis

In Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, the Vikings have the best receiving duo in the league. As a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Tai Felton was selected as the eventual replacement for Jalen Nailor as the Vikings WR3. Nailor left for the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency. Felton earned a signifiant special teams role but did little on offense. He needs to step up in his second season. Whether it’s Felton, an early draft pick, or a free agent, the Vikings need a third receiver to take some pressure off Jefferson and Addison. 

Tight Ends

T.J. Hockenson

Josh Oliver

Gavin Bartholomew

Ben Yurosek

Bryson Nesbit

The Vikings tight end position is similar to the running back position. It’s not an immediate need but T.J. Hockenson’s contract was re-done to allow his free agency departure next offseason. The position will soon be a significant need. It might be best to get ahead of it with a talented prospect in this draft. 

Tackles

Christian Darrisaw

Brian O’Neill

Ryan Van Demark

Walter Rouse

Caleb Etienne

The Vikings have strong bookend tackles in Christian Darrisaw and Brian O’Neill. Darrisaw struggled to stay on the field last season in his return from a 2024 ACL injury. If those struggles are behind him, the Vikings are set at tackle for as long as O’Neill plays. Hopefully, he has a handful of years remaining in him. Ryan Van Demark was a significant depth addition this offseason. 

Guards

Donovan Jackson

Will Fries

Joe Huber

Henry Byrd

As a rookie, Donovan Jackson improved through the season. Coming off a significant leg injury in 2024, Will Fries did the same. They should form a formidable guard duo in their second season with the Vikings. As an undrafted rookie, Joe Huber played well in his single start last season. While not a significant need, a team should never pass up a chance to provide more depth to the offensive line. 

Centers

Blake Brandel

Michael Jurgens

Vershon Lee

It feels like Blake Brandel is a placeholder at center. I expect the Vikings to find their franchise center on Day 2 of the draft. If that happens, Brandel would provide strong depth at all of the interior offensive line positions. If the Vikings can’t find their center in the draft, Brandel would be a solid option at the position. However, the offensive line depth would take a hit. 

Defense

Defensive Line

Jalen Redmond

Levi Drake Rodriguez

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins

Elijah Williams

Taki Taimani

Jaylon Hutchings

This is a very young and very interesting group. Jalen Redmond arrived last season. He’s a problem for offenses. Levi Drake Rodriguez emerged last season in a rotational role. Perhaps, he breaks out this season like Redmond did last season. The same could be true of Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins. Elijah Williams appeared in seven games as an undrafted rookie. He has intriguing potential. Taki Taimani is the only defensive lineman on the roster with nose tackle size. Jaylon Hutchings is a signing out of the Canadian Football League. While I really like the talent and potential of this young group, defensive line could be, and should be, addressed early in the draft. 

Outside Linebackers

Jonathan Greenard

Andrew Van Ginkel

Dallas Turner

Bo Richter

Tyler Batty

Chaz Chambliss

With Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Dallas Turner, outside linebacker is a Vikings strength. Perhaps the biggest challenge is finding enough snaps for the trio. Still, a team can never have enough pass rushers. And Van Ginkel, unfortunately, can’t play forever. I can see a pass rusher selected early in the draft. 

Inside Linebackers

Blake Cashman

Eric Wilson

Ivan Pace Jr.

Josh Ross

Jacob Roberts

Blake Cashman is brilliant when he’s on the field. Eric Wilson was a revelation last year. They are a terrific duo. Cashman turns 30 this year. Wilson turns 32. I’d like to see the Vikings add a promising linebacker in the draft. 

Cornerbacks

Byron Murphy Jr.

Isaiah Rodgers

James Pierre

Zemaiah Vaughn

Dwight McGlothern

With the free agency addition of James Pierre, the Vikings now have a solid corner trio. Byron Murphy Jr. is 28. Isaiah Rodgers is 28. Pierre will be 30 at the start of the season. The Vikings could use a talented rookie. Perhaps a first-round corner.

Safeties

Joshua Metellus

Theo Jackson

Jay Ward

Tavierre Thomas

Kahlef Hailassie 

Perhaps Harrison Smith as well.

Harrison Smith has yet to announce his retirement. I believe the longer it takes, the more likely it is that he returns. He’s only 37. With or without Smith, safety is a need. There’s a reason safety is the position most frequently mocked to the Vikings. 

Special Teams

Kicker

Will Reichard

Will Reichard is the best kicker in the league. 

Punter

Johnny Hekker

The Vikings signed Johnny Hekker this offseason. I wish that they were getting Hekker of about ten years ago. He’s still a solid punter and excellent holder. 

Long Snapper

Andrew DePaola

At 38, Andrew DePoala is still the best long snapper in the league.