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. 

NFL Offseason Workout Dates

The ten teams with new coaches get an early start with offseason workouts. The Baltimore Ravens reported yesterday. The remaining nine teams report today. Here are the workout dates for all 32 teams.

Minnesota Vikings

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 26-27, May 29, June 1-2, June 4, June 15-18

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

Chicago Bears

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 27-29, June 2-4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

Detroit Lions

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 27-29, June 2-4, June 9-11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-17

Green Bay Packers

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 26-27, May 29, June 1-2, June 4, June 15-16, June 18

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

Dallas Cowboys

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: June 1-2, June 4, June 8-9, June 11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-18

New York Giants

First Day: April 7

Voluntary Minicamp: April 21-23

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 19-21, May 27-29, June 1-4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 8-10

Philadelphia Eagles

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 26-27, May 29, June 1-2, June 4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-10

Washington Commanders

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 27-29, June 2-4, June 9-11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-18

Atlanta Falcons

First Day: April 7

Voluntary Minicamp: April 21-23

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 18-19, May 21, May 26-27, May 29, June 8-9, June 11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-18

Carolina Panthers 

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 26-27, May 29, June 1-2, June 4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

New Orleans Saints

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 27-28, June 1, June 3-4, June 8, June 10-11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-17

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 26-28, June 2-4, June 9-11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-18

Arizona Cardinals

First Day: April 7

Voluntary Minicamp: April 21-23

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 18-19, May 21, May 26-27, May 29, June 1-2, June 4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-18

Los Angeles Rams

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 26-28, June 1-2, June 4, June 8-9, June 11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 15-16

San Francisco 49ers

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 27-29, June 1, June 3-4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-10

Seattle Seahawks

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 26, May 28-29, June 1, June 3-4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

Buffalo Bills

First Day: April 7

Voluntary Minicamp: April 20-22

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 18-19, May 21, May 26-28, June 1-4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

Miami Dolphins

First Day: April 7

Voluntary Minicamp: April 21-23

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 18-19, May 21, May 26-27, May 29, June 8-9, June 11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 2-4

New England Patriots 

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 27, May 29, June 1-2, June 4, June 8-9, June 11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 15-17

New York Jets

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 27-29, June 1-2, June 4, June 8-11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-18

Baltimore Ravens

First Day: April 6

Voluntary Minicamp: April 20-22

OTA Offseason Workouts:May 18-19, May 21, May 26-28, June 1-2, June 4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

Cincinnati Bengals

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: June 1-3, June 9-11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-18

Cleveland Browns

First Day: April 7

Voluntary Minicamp: April 21-23

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 19-21, May 26-28, June 2-5

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

Pittsburgh Steelers

First Day: April 7

Voluntary Minicamp: April 20-22

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 18, May 20-21, May 26, May 28-29, June 8-9, June 11-12

Mandatory Minicamp: June 2-4

Houston Texans

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 27-29, June 1-2, June 4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

Indianapolis Colts

First Day: April 21

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 26-27, May 29, June 1-2, June 4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

Jacksonville Jaguars

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 26, May 28-29, June 1-2, June 4, June 15-17

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

Tennessee Titans

First Day: April 7

Voluntary Minicamp: April 21-23

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 18-19, May 21, May 26-27, May 29, June 8-9, June 11-12

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-17

Denver Broncos

First Day: May 4

OTA Offseason Workouts: June 2-4, June 8-11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-18

Kansas City Chiefs

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 26-28, June 1-3

Mandatory Minicamp: June 9-11

Las Vegas Raiders

First Day: April 7

Voluntary Minicamp: April 20-22

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 18, May 20-21, May 26, May 28-29, June 1-4

Mandatory Minicamp: June 6-11

Los Angeles Chargers

First Day: April 20

OTA Offseason Workouts: May 26-27, May 29, June 2-4, June 8-11

Mandatory Minicamp: June 16-18

Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft Monday

It’s another Monday closer to the real draft. 17 more days. Here’s another Minnesota Vikings mock draft. 

1. Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

2. Jadarian Price, RB, Notre Dame

3. Kyle Louis, LB, Pittsburgh

3. Logan Jones, C, Iowa

5. Jeff Caldwell, WR, Cincinnati

6. Nick Barrett, DT, South Carolina

7. Kaden Wetjen, WR, Iowa

7. Riley Nowakowski, FB/TE, Indiana

7. Ahmari Harvey, CB, Georgia Tech

After missing all of the 2025 season with an ACL injury, it was easy to imagine Jermod McCoy being available at #18. After an explosive performance at his Pro Day last week, I don’t think he’ll be available when the Vikings are on the clock. He may now challenge Mansoor Delane as the first cornerback to be selected in the draft. If available, McCoy would be an excellent addition to the Vikings secondary.

Day 2 of this mock provides three players that would contribute immediately and soon grab starting roles. The Vikings need a young, difference-maker at running back. Jadarian Price would perfectly fill that role. Kyle Louis has emerged as one of my favorite players in this draft. Brian Flores would have a blast scheming for the versatile defender. Louis is the best cover linebacker in the draft. He may also be considered the best cover safety. He has the size and athletic ability to play both positions. Much like Josh Metellus, Louis can project nearly anywhere on the defense. While Blake Brandel is a solid placeholder at center, I think the Vikings offensive line is at its strongest when he’s backing up as many as five positions. Logan Jones could immediately step in at center and raise the floor of the starting offensive line.

With each of these mocks, I’m always foolishly hoping to address all of the Vikings biggest needs in the first three rounds. With only four picks it’s impossible to address every need. It’s one of the reasons I wouldn’t be surprised if the Vikings trade back in the first round and add a Day 2 pick. This mock is helped by the addition of Kyle Louis. His versatility potentially addresses needs at linebacker and safety. In this mock, it’s defensive tackle and receiver that slip into Day 3. At 6’5” and 4.31 forty, Jeff Caldwell intrigues with his size and speed. The Vikings have no receiver that big or that fast. Day 3 is often for players with particular traits and Caldwell is loaded with particular traits. Nick Barrett is a big, run-stuffer, space-eater. The Vikings could use one of those on the defensive line. As always, the sixth and seventh rounds include some of my late-round favorites. While Myles Price shined as a returner in his rookie season, Kaden Wetjen is a whole other type of returner. He could immediately be one of the league’s best. Riley Nowakowski is a C.J. Ham replacement as a fullback and extra blocker. Ahmari Harvey has become a seventh-round regular in these mock drafts. 

Until this next one. 

Here’s Another Mock Draft

It’s been a couple weeks. It’s time for another mock draft. 

I don’t like mocking trades in mock drafts. Mock drafts are a fairly silly thing to start. There are so many variables and guesses without inserting the variables and guesses that come with trades. Who wants to trade back? Who wants to trade up? How far up? How far back? Who has the assets to make a trade? Who’s willing to use those assets? That being said, if I were to mock a trade in this draft, it would be the Arizona Cardinals trading the third pick in the draft. Without a second or third quarterback worthy of the third pick, the Cardinals are probably looking at an offensive lineman. They can probably get that same offensive lineman a bit later. While I don’t believe that the Cardinals will stay put, I’m projecting that they will in this mock. 

1.   Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

2.   New York Jets: Arvell Reese, Edge, Ohio State

3.   Arizona Cardinals: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami

4.   Tennessee Titans: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame

5.   New York Giants: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

6.   Cleveland Browns: David Bailey, Edge, Texas Tech

7.   Washington Commanders: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State

8.   New Orleans Saints: Rueben Bain Jr., Edge, Miami 

9.   Kansas City Chiefs: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

10. Cincinnati Bengals: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU

11. Miami Dolphins: Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia

12. Dallas Cowboys: Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

13. Los Angeles Rams (from Falcons): Makai Lemon, WR, USC

14. Baltimore Ravens: Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Akheem Mesidor, Edge, Miami

16. New York Jets (from Colts): Jordan Tyson, WR, Arizona State

17. Detroit Lions: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah

18. Minnesota Vikings: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo

19. Carolina Panthers: Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana

20. Dallas Cowboys (from Packers): CJ Allen, LB, Georgia

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon

23. Philadelphia Eagles: Blake Miller, OT, Clemson

24. Cleveland Browns (from Jaguars): Denzel Boston, WR, Washington

25. Chicago Bears: Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon

26. Buffalo Bills: Keldric Faulk, Edge, Auburn

27. San Francisco 49ers: Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama

28. Houston Texans: Peter Woods, DT, Clemson

29. Kansas City Chiefs (from Rams): Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson

30. Miami Dolphins (from Broncos): Cashius Howell, Edge, Texas A&M

31. New England Patriots: TJ Parker, Edge, Clemson

32. Seattle Seahawks: Jadarian Price, RB, Notre Dame

Until the next one. 

Vikings Safeties

Finally, this pre-draft run through the position groups of the Minnesota Vikings concludes with the safeties. 

Minnesota Vikings Safeties

Harrison Smith

Josh Metellus

Jay Ward

Theo Jackson

Tavierre Thomas

Kahlef Hailassie

Technically, Harrison Smith is no longer on the roster. The Vikings released him earlier this offseason as a procedural move. Personally, Smith isn’t off the roster until he officially retires. He’s yet to do that. I believe the longer it takes to make the decision the more likely it is that he returns for another season. He’s only 37. 

With Harrison Smith in the lineup, the safety position is in decent shape. Josh Metellus isn’t a traditional safety. His strength is his versatility. He can play all over the defensive formation. Finding him and figuring out his role on a given snap can be a chore for the offense. Jay Ward was primarily a special teams staple for his first two seasons in Minnesota. Last season, he was getting some run with the defense. He likely played his way into an expanded role this season. Theo Jackson was penciled in last season as the replacement for Cam Bynum. Jackson started the first several games while Smith was sidelined with a health issue. Upon Smith’s return, Jackson assumed more of a rotational role. Tavierre Thomas is on the roster for his special teams play. Kahlef Hailassie started last season on the Vikings practice squad. The Jacksonville Jaguars signed him to their active roster on September 17 and was waived on November 17. The Vikings signed him to the practice squad a week later. So, the season ended where it started for Hailassie. He was signed to a reserve/future contract after the season.

Whether Harrison Smith returns or retires, safety is a draft need for the Vikings. Even at 37, Smith will be difficult to keep off the field. One would imagine that his snaps might be reduced. I’m not so sure it plays out that way. As recently as a couple years ago, safety was arguably the Vikings strongest position group. With Cam Bynum’s departure in free agency last year and Smith inching toward retirement, cracks are appearing in the position. Josh Metellus has his unique role and can hardly be considered a traditional safety. Among the players currently on the roster, Jay Ward is the wildcard. Despite not earning a significant defensive role in his first three seasons, he intrigues me. He always has. He played slot and safety at LSU. He can cover and play in the box. He can blitz and make plays against the run. He’s a candidate for a breakout season. With Smith nearing retirement, Metellus’s nebulous role, and a bunch of questions, I expect the Vikings to address safety early in the draft. 

Vikings Cornerbacks

The pre-draft run through the position groups of the Minnesota Vikings continues with the cornerbacks. 

Minnesota Vikings Cornerbacks

Byron Murphy Jr.

Isaiah Rodgers

James Pierre

Dwight McGlothern

Zemaiah Vaughn

Like Isaiah Rodgers last year, the free agency signing this year of James Pierre feels like a strong, under-the-radar signing. The addition gives the Vikings a solid top trio. At 6’2”, Pierre also gives the defense some size at corner. Youngsters Dwight McGlothern and Zemaiah Vaughn provide depth and have intriguing potential. Both are also over 6’2” so they bring some size as well. 

There was some free agency hope that the Vikings would make a big-time corner signing like Jamel Dean or Jaylon Watson. There wasn’t really the salary cap capacity for that sort of free agency addition. I don’t know if many had James Pierre as a target. I do know that there was significant relief when the signing was announced. Everybody loved his sterling PFF grades. Many liked his size and overall solid play. I know that I liked that Vikings new secondary coach Gerald Alexander coached Pierre with the Pittsburgh Steelers. I’ve been a fan of Alexander’s coaching and ability to develop players since his days at Cal nearly a decade ago. If he likes James Pierre, I like James Pierre. 

Cornerback is often a draft need for the Vikings. From first round to seventh round, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see corner be the pick at just about any round of the upcoming draft. A top-notch rookie corner making the trio of Byron Murphy Jr., Isaiah Rodgers, and James Pierre a quartet is an exciting prospect. 

Up next: Safeties

Vikings Linebackers

The linebackers are next in this pre-draft run through the position groups of the Minnesota Vikings. 

Minnesota Vikings Linebackers

Outside

Jonathan Greenard

Andrew Van Ginkel

Dallas Turner

Bo Richter

Tyler Batty

Chaz Chambliss

Inside

Blake Cashman

Eric Wilson

Ivan Pace Jr.

Jacob Roberts

Josh Ross

The outside and inside linebackers are very different position groups. It’s best to separate them.

With Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Dallas Turner at the top of the depth chart, outside linebacker is a Vikings strength. The biggest problem with the three is finding enough snaps for all of them. It’s a luxury for defensive coordinator Brian Flores and his coaches. Bo Richter, Tyler Batty, and Chaz Chambliss were all undrafted and provide some rotational snaps.

As for the inside linebackers, Blake Cashman has been brilliant, when healthy, both of his seasons in Minnesota. The fact that he’s missed some time each season is the only concern. Eric Wilson was signed last season for his special teams play. He earned a contract extension this offseason for his excellent play on defense. In Cashman and Wilson, the Vikings have a strong inside linebacker duo. Ivan Pace Jr. has had an up-and-down three years with the Vikings. In his high moments, he looked like a future franchise fixture. In his down moments, he looked like a solid special teams player. His contributions last season were mostly on special teams. If he rebounds this season, the Vikings have a strong interior trio. Jacob Roberts and Josh Ross signed reserve/future contracts in January. Roberts was signed out of the Canadian Football League.

The biggest question about the Vikings linebacker group is probably the age of Andrew Van Ginkel, Blake Cashman, and Eric Wilson. While each will be over 30 at the start of the season, I believe that all have at least two more strong seasons in them. Is that enough to not see either linebacker group as a need in the upcoming draft? Not at all. I can easily see the Vikings using a high pick on an inside or outside linebacker. Especially outside linebacker. An NFL team can never have enough pass rushers. 

Up next: Cornerbacks

Vikings Defensive Line

It’s on to the defense. The defensive line is next in this pre-draft run through the position groups of the Minnesota Vikings. 

Minnesota Vikings Defensive Line

Jalen Redmond

Levi Drake Rodriguez

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins

Taki Taimani

Elijah Williams

Jaylon Hutchings

A year ago, the Vikings defensive line was topped by somewhat big free agent additions in Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave. Seeing as both have moved to different teams, it’s safe to say that things didn’t work as hoped. Instead of impact plays consistently coming from Allen and Hargrave, Jalen Redmond emerged as one of the better interior defensive linemen in the league. He now tops this plucky group. All six of the above defensive linemen were either late-round picks or undrafted.

Jalen Redmond - undrafted

Levi Drake Rodriguez - seventh-round

Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins - fifth-round

Taki Taimani - undrafted

Elijah Williams - undrafted

Jaylon Hutchings - undrafted

This unheralded and mostly undrafted group of football players have become one of my favorite position groups on the Vikings. Playing in the shadow of Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave last season, Jalen Redmond, Levi Drake Rodriguez, Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins emerged, especially Redmond. People outside of Minnesota might look at the group and exclaim “Who the hell are they?” I kinda like that in a “chip on the shoulder” sort of way. Now, that doesn’t mean that this unheralded group is headed to Canton. Far from it. It definitely looks like the Vikings have found a gem in Redmond. His is an unusual case. If not for a battle with blood clots in college, he might’ve been an early-round pick rather than being ignored in the 2023 NFL Draft. After being released by the Carolina Panthers, he kept his football dream alive playing a few games with the Arlington Renegades of the XFL. That’s where the Vikings found him in 2024. He played a bit that year and earned a starting role last summer. Rodriguez could be the next defensive lineman to step from his unheralded beginnings. He earned a rotational role as a rookie in 2024. That role increased last season. It remains to be seen if he can handle a starting role. Perhaps his ceiling is as a rotational player. His dedication and work ethic seems to make anything possible. Whatever his role, I love his energy and I love having him on the team. Ingram-Dawkins might be the biggest wildcard of the group. It was generally thought that he would’ve been better off staying at Georgia another season rather than entering the 2025 NFL Draft. If he’d stayed in college, he might’ve been an early-round pick this year. Who knows? What is known is that the Vikings might’ve gotten a steal in the fifth round. Now, it’s on Ingram-Dawkins to play to his potential. Elijah Williams might be another 2025 steal. There’s a too long history of players from HBCUs being under-valued and often ignored completely. Williams should’ve been drafted. He didn’t play a lot last season but he did show that he belonged. Taki Taimani is the only defensive lineman on the roster with nose tackle size. He’s bounced between the practice squad and active roster in his two years with the team. The Vikings signed Jaylon Hutchings in January. He was undrafted in 2024, signed by the Chicago Bears, released by the Bears, and signed by the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League. His path to Minnesota resembles that of Redmond. He’s yet to take a regular season NFL snap but it’s easy to dream of Hutchings turning into another defensive lineman gem.

Despite my fondness for this plucky group of football players, it’s easy to see the Vikings spending an early-round draft pick on the position. My biggest defensive line question is whether Brian Flores wants a big, space-eating, block-taking nose tackle-type of player in his defense. I think of his Vince Wilfork days with the New England Patriots and believe that he might. This draft has a few of those players. 

Next up: Linebackers 

Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft Monday on Tuesday

With the double-whammy passings of Minnesota Vikings legends Jeff Siemon and Joey Browner, it was a rough, sad weekend. I wasn’t ready to dabble with a mock draft on Monday. The draft is inevitable and Monday’s Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft falls on Tuesday. 

1. Makai Lemon, WR, USC

2. Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State

3. Kyle Louis, LB, Pittsburgh

3. Jonah Coleman, RB, Washington

5. DeMonte Capehart, DL, Clemson

6. Tanner Koziol, TE, Houston

7. Parker Brailsford, C, Alabama

7. Kaden Wetjen, WR, Iowa

7. Max Bredeson, TE/FB, Michigan

This draft started different than most with USC receiver Makai Lemon dropping to the Vikings at #18. I’ve often resisted the receiver temptation when Jordan Tyson’s been available but I couldn’t resist when Lemon dropped. It feels weird to select a position other than safety, corner, defensive line. A Vikings receiving trio of Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and Makai Lemon would be a beautiful thing. 

The surprises continued with the Vikings next two picks. Chris Johnson had been a second-round regular in early mock draft exercises. He hasn’t been recently as he seems to have risen closer to a first round pick rather than a mid-second round pick. He’s an easy pick here. I believe that Johnson would be an immediate contributor at outside corner for the Vikings. 

Simply put, Kyle Louis is one of my favorite players in the draft. I feel that Brian Flores would love working with this skilled and versatile defender. I know that I would love seeing Louis play in Flores’ defense. I’d be stunned and thrilled if Louis is still available in the third round.

I’m convinced that the Vikings will draft a running back on Day 2 of the draft. I like all of the running backs that should be available and Jonah Coleman is one of my favorites. 

The Vikings need to supplement the defensive front. DeMonte Capehart in the fifth feels like a steal. All of the Vikings picks in this mock feel like steals. Capehart would be a nice addition to the defensive line rotation. 

The Vikings don’t need a tight end this year. They will need one next year as T.J. Hockenson’s re-worked contract currently has him walking next offseason. Tanner Kozoil would be a nice contributor as a rookie and starter in 2027. 

I like just about everything about this mock draft. I don’t like that center isn’t addressed until the seventh round. I believe that finding an immediate starting center in this draft is one of the Vikings biggest needs. However, having Blake Brandel as a place-holder at center takes off some of the pressure of finding one. Perhaps that’s a reason I passed on Connor Lew, Jake Slaughter, and Logan Jones earlier. At least Parker Brailsford was found in the seventh round of this mock. At 6’2” and 290lbs, he’s even smaller than Garrett Bradbury. That thought likely sends chills down the spine of Vikings fans everywhere. While Brailsford might be a decent center project, I doubt that he bumps Brandel from the starting lineup and into a versatile reserve role this season. 

It’s easy to have favorites at the top of the draft. You do enough of these mocks and favorites are found at the bottom of the draft. Kaden Wetjen and Max Bredeson have become two of my favorites. I thought that Myles Price did a nice job as the Vikings kick and punt returner as a rookie last season. Wetjen could take the return game to a whole other level. Bredeson would immediately be penciled in as the heir to C.J. Ham’s fullback/extra blocker role. 

Until the next one. 

RIP Joey Browner

Well, this can stop. While mourning Saturday’s loss of Jeff Siemon came Sunday’s news that Joey Browner had passed the same day. It’s been a rough weekend. Siemon was only 75. Browner was only 65. I wish the naive thoughts of my youth held true and all my Vikings heroes would play and live forever. 

I don’t even know what to think about the loss of Joey Browner following the loss of Jeff Siemon. How do you process the second when you haven’t fully processed the first? 

Following the “glory years” of the 1970s, the 1980s were a different sort of time for the Minnesota Vikings. For one thing, they moved from the outdoor wildness of Metropolitan Stadium into the indoor predictably of the Metrodome. For another, wins come as easily. Bud Grant retired after the 1983 season, came back after the disastrous 1984 season, and retired again after the 1985 season. The 1980s were a very different decade after the great success of the 1970s. Seeing as the Vikings won none of the three Super Bowls they played in during the 1970s, any success of that decade is relative. A consistent highlight for the Vikings through the 1980s was the strong play of safety Joey Browner. The 1983 NFL Draft was and will always be best known for the quarterbacks selected in the first round. John Elway, Todd Blackledge, Jim Kelly, Tony Eason, Ken O’Brien, and Dan Marino. All of the six were good. Three of them were great. Elway, Kelly, and Marino have busts in Canton. It was a loaded first round with running back Eric Dickerson, tackle Jimbo Covert, and corner Darrell Green joining the three quarterbacks in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The Vikings selected Joey Browner with the 19th pick in the 1983 NFL Draft. It was one of the best picks in franchise history. This was one of the league’s historic first rounds and Browner was a big part of that history. He was a great football player. If not for the injuries that shortened his career, he’d have a bust in Canton. He still played 10 years and was one of the best safeties in the league for about eight of them. For a few of those years, he was the best. Safety peer Kenny Easley played fewer years and was great for fewer years and he just got past the erratic Hall of Fame voters. Browner deserves the same. He probably tops my list of Vikings players that have long waited for and deserves to get that Hall call. For what it’s worth, he has received induction into the Pro Football Researchers Association’s Hall of Very Good. That’s been a stepping stone to Canton for many deserving players. 

Since the 1970s, it seems that each decade has brought a singular player that’s become a near universal favorite of Vikings fans. In the 1990s, that player was John Randle. In the 2000s, that player was Randy Moss. For some, that player may have been Antoine Winfield. For the 2010s, that player was, and still is, Harrison Smith. The 2020s are still going but it’s hard to imagine any player topping Justin Jefferson. In the 1980s, that player was Joey Browner. From the safety position, he was a one-man wrecking crew. I will always remember the playoff game against Los Angeles in which he simply took apart the Rams offense. After the game, Rams head coach John Robinson (Browner’s head coach at USC) said that his former player was the best defensive player in the league. He wasn’t wrong. Joey Browner was a great football player. Somehow, he was a great football player that’s ridiculously underrated. 

Losing people is perhaps the most painful price for seeing more years. I’ve been a fan of the Minnesota Vikings for over 50 years. Every player that’s played and every coach that’s coached for the team means something to me. Losing Jeff Siemon and Joey Browner in one day is a rough one. 

RIP Joey Browner

RIP Jeff Siemon

As a young fan of the Minnesota Vikings in the 1970s, I naively believed that all of my heroes would play forever. My earliest football memories were the Vikings annually competing for and in the Super Bowl. From 1973-76, they played in three of the four Super Bowls. If not for a dreadful push-off, it would’ve been four of four. It felt like the Vikings were always going to be playing for NFL titles. Unfortunately, this little kid had it all wrong. Players don’t play forever and the Vikings haven’t been back to a Super Bowl since their loss to the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XI. Players also don’t live forever. As had become a recurring theme in Super Bowls, not a lot went right for the Vikings in that game against the Raiders. One of the few bright spots that day was the play of linebacker Jeff Siemon. It felt like he made every tackle. For a great player with a lot of great games, it might’ve been his best game. Yesterday, Jeff Siemon passed at the age of 75.

Other than his going to Stanford, I liked everything about Jeff Siemon. In a strange Cal-Stanford connection for the Vikings, Siemon was selected with the first round pick acquired from the New England Patriots for quarterback Joe Kapp. Siemon is the best Stanford player to ever play for the Vikings. If not the best, Joe Kapp is the most significant Cal player to ever play for the Vikings. Anyway, Siemon’s play on the field easily erased any stupid Stanford issues that I might’ve had. The Vikings annually fielded outstanding defenses in the late 1960s and into the 1970s. Those defenses were known for and fronted by one of the greatest defensive lines in NFL history. Alan Page, Carl Eller, Jim Marshall, and Gary Larsen/Doug Sutherland cast a long shadow over the defenders that played behind them. In Roy Winston, Lonnie Warwick, and Wally Hilgenberg, the Vikings had good, solid linebackers. They cleaned up nicely what that menacing front line left behind. Jeff Siemon is arguably the first great Vikings linebacker. He was the first that was able to emerge from the shadow cast by Page, Eller, and Marshall as an outstanding football player like them rather than because of them. Bud Grant never really trusted rookies to start right away. Alan Page was the first that truly challenged that lack of trust. Siemon was the second. He replaced Warwick in the lineup six games into his rookie season. My first Vikings linebacker trio was Roy Winston-Jeff Siemon-Wally Hilgenberg and I loved them. Despite being the youngest by several years, Siemon was easily the standout. That trio was together from 1972 until Matt Blair fully bumped Winston in 1976. It’s strange to look back and see that Siemon played at 235 lbs. He always looked bigger than that. Maybe it’s because Page, Eller, and Marshall weren’t much bigger. Maybe it’s simply because I was smaller. All of those Vikings were giants to me. Who knows? I do know that these young eyes could see that Siemon excelled at everything demanded of a linebacker in those days. He could defend the run. He could drop back in coverage. He was always where he needed to be. He was a great football player. 

Jeff Siemon was a great football player at every level of the game. His play at Bakersfield High School earned him induction into the California High School Hall of Fame. He was an All-American at Stanford and helped lead that pompous school to back-to-back Rose Bowl wins. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. He was a first round pick in the 1972 NFL Draft and earned Pro Bowl honors in four of his first six years with the Vikings. His excellent 11-year career in Minnesota earned him a spot in 2010 among the 50 Greatest Vikings. If the Vikings had managed to win even one of the three Super Bowls he played, Siemon would have an argument for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He was one of the best middle linebackers of his era. Oh, that era. The 1970s were my introduction to football, the Minnesota Vikings, and the National Football League. I will always look back at those days with fondness. Honestly, it doesn’t really feel that long ago. On good days, Super Bowl XI doesn’t feel 50 damn years ago. On other days, I feel the time. I probably feel it most by those no longer here. That linebacker trio of my youth are all gone now. It takes the wind out of me. 

RIP Jeff Siemon

Vikings Offensive Line

The pre-draft run through the position groups of the Minnesota Vikings brings us to the offensive line.

Minnesota Vikings Offensive Line

Starters:

Christian Darrisaw

Donovan Jackson

Blake Brandel

Will Fries

Brian O’Neill 

The rest:

Ryan Van Demark

Michael Jurgens

Walter Rouse

Joe Huber

Henry Byrd

Vershon Lee

Caleb Etienne

Last offseason, the Vikings stressed improvement of the interior of the offensive line. Guard Will Fries and center Ryan Kelly were signed in free agency. Guard Donovan Jackson was selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. On paper, it looked like a success. On the field, it never really got started. Due to injuries, the projected starting offensive line played together for about 80 plays. Over the 17-game season, the re-made Vikings starting offensive line was on the field for the equivalent of about one game. The pre-game and in-game shuffling of the group was a significant reason for quarterback injuries and a wildly inconsistent offense. It’s a minor miracle the Vikings managed to win nine games. 

That was last season. This is a look at this season’s offensive line. The biggest change among the starting five is the retirement of center Ryan Kelly. For now, Blake Brandel is the placeholder at the position. Last season was his first time playing in the middle. He held up well. He held up well enough that he’s considered the potential starter now. Perhaps the biggest hope for the offensive line is that left tackle Christian Darrisaw returns to his form before the October 2024 kneed injury. His rehab from that injury seemed to be going well through training camp. Then came the regular season. Nearly every week was a “will he or won’t he play” question. Several times that decision came down to game time. Never knowing if or how long Darrisaw would play in each game was a problem. One of many problems. As a rookie, left guard Donovan Jackson improved throughout the season. As a big free agent signing returning from a significant leg injury, right guard Will Fries also improved throughout the season. The best days for both are in front of them. While tipping the clock at 30, 31 in September, Brian O’Neill is still an excellent and reliable at right tackle. 

With a healthy Christian Darrisaw and Brian O’Neill at the tackle spots and Donovan Jackson and Will Fries at the guard spots, the Vikings have the foundation for one of the better offensive lines in the league. I expect the Vikings to find their center on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft. With that, the starting offensive line has to stay on the field. A consistent offensive line and the Vikings are a contender. Because of the injuries and inconsistencies, the free agent signing of Ryan Van Demark is one of the most significant additions of the offseason. Finding a center in the draft allows Blake Brandel to back up nearly every position on the line. Van Demark and Brandel are outstanding, versatile backups and give the Vikings a strong seven offensive linemen. They need improvement from the remaining depth. Perhaps that improvement will come from one or more currently on the roster. As an undrafted rookie, Joe Huber showed potential in the one game he was forced to play last season. Former late-round pick tackle Walter Rouse certainly looks the part, After two seasons on the roster, he needs to show he’s more than ready if needed. The same can be said of center/guard Michael Jurgens. 

Up next: Defensive Line

Vikings Tight Ends

The tight ends are next in this pre-draft dive into the position groups of the Minnesota Vikings.

Minnesota Vikings Tight Ends

T.J. Hockenson

Josh Oliver

Ben Yurosek

Gavin Bartholomew

Bryson Nesbit

The Vikings tight end situation is remarkably similar to their running back position. Both position groups are topped by a talented player likely in their final year with the team. T.J. Hockenson has been mostly great in his 3.5 years in Minnesota. He’d probably be even better if it wasn’t for the knee injury that came from another Kerby Joseph cheap shot. That injury ended his 2023 and mostly wrecked his 2024 season. If it wasn’t for that injury, it’s possible that his contract wouldn’t have needed re-work and this 2026 wouldn’t be his last with the Vikings. When he’s healthy and the Vikings quarterback situation is healthy, Hockenson is a weapon. Josh Oliver is an excellent compliment to Hockenson and an outstanding blocker. Oliver’s role in the Vikings offense is significant. Gavin Bartholomew was a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He missed all of his rookie season with a preseason back injury. Ben Yurosek and Bryson Nesbit were undrafted free agents. Yurosek earned some playing time and had a couple catches. Bartholomew, Yurosek, and Nesbit are developmental prospects with a new position coach in Ryan Cordell. 

Like the Vikings running backs position, the tight end position isn’t an immediate need. That’s because the player that tops the depth chart is on the roster for one more season. It wouldn’t be a surprise if the Vikings address the tight end position at any point in the draft. 

Next up: Offensive Line

Vikings Receivers

The receivers are next in this pre-draft look at the position groups of the Minnesota Vikings

Minnesota Vikings Receivers

Justin Jefferson

Jordan Addison

Tai Felton

Myles Price

Jeshaun Jones

Dontae Fleming

Joaquin Davis

With the free agency departure of productive WR3 Jalen Nailor, the Vikings receiver group has become Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and a bunch of guys. Jefferson and Addison are the best receiving duo in the league. Well, as long as Addison keeps himself on the field and out of trouble, they are the best receiving duo in the league. Tai Felton was drafted in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft to possibly replace Nailor as WR3. In his rookie season, he developed into a very good gunner. He had only a few appearances on offense. He had three catches for 25 yards in those appearances. Felton has terrific speed and natural athletic ability. Coming into the league, he was pigeon-holed as a receiver that needed touches manufactured for him. He can be a terror with the ball in his hands. He just has to refine and develop some of the nuances of the receiver position. The Vikings need Felton to take some steps forward on offense. As an undrafted rookie, Myles Price emerged as an impact returner last season. I’m not sure if much is expected from him on offense. Jeshaun Jones has spent two seasons on the Vikings practice squad. He did get promoted and appeared in one game last season. He had a couple catches in that game. Dontae Fleming was signed last spring after going undrafted. He spent the season on the practice squad. Joaquin Davis was signed to the practice squad in December and signed a reserve/future contract in January. The thing about Davis that stands out most is his 6’4” size. And he has decent speed for that size. 

The talents of Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison can mask the need at the receiver position. The need is such that the Vikings should sign a free agent skilled and experienced enough to immediately step in as WR3. The position should also be considered early in the draft. Even if Tai Felton steps up and plays to the level expected of a player selected in the third round, receiver needs to be addressed in both free agency and early in the draft.

Next up; Tight Ends

Vikings Running Backs

In this pre-draft trip through the position groups of the Minnesota Vikings, it’s time for the running backs. 

Minnesota Vikings Running Backs

Aaron Jones

Jordan Mason

Zavier Scott

The Vikings entered this offseason with a significant salary cap situation. They were about $45 million over the cap. Aaron Jones was a casualty of the situation. For ten days, it looked like team and player were going their separate ways. Then the Vikings signed Jones to a new, more affordable deal. For a third season, it looks like he’ll top the running back depth chart. When he’s healthy, Jones is still a versatile, dynamic running back. Jordan Mason returns as a bigger, hard-charging change of pace. Jones and Mason complement each other well. After spending the 2024 season on the practice squad, Zavier Scott earned some playing time last season. Running backs with a receiver past have always intrigued me. There aren’t a lot of backs that can legitimately run a receiver route tree. Scott played both running back and receiver in college at Connecticut and Maine. Scott is a good running back. His touchdown catch last season showed that he also has receiver skills. For now, he looks like a solid and versatile, third running back.

With Aaron Jones re-signed and Jordan Mason returning, running back isn’t an immediate draft need. Still, Jones is 31. Mason is on the last year of his contract. Moving forward, running back is a need. I expect the Vikings to select a running back on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft. If a particular running back falls to the #18 pick, I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s the pick. In fact, I’d be surprised if he wasn’t. 

Next up: Receivers

Vikings Quarterbacks

With NFL free agency in its final waves and the 2026 NFL Draft a month away, it’s a fine time to look at each of the Minnesota Vikings position groups. As always, it starts with the quarterbacks. 

Minnesota Vikings Quarterbacks

Kyler Murray

J.J. McCarthy

Carson Wentz

Max Brosmer

No Vikings position group has been more transformed this offseason than the quarterbacks. There’s a reason for that. Since Kevin O’Connell was hired as the head coach in 2022, the Vikings were 27-7 in the two seasons with, at least, average quarterback play. In the two seasons in which injuries wiped out any hope of quarterback consistency, the Vikings were 16-18. In 2023, the Vikings played four quarterbacks. Josh Dobbs was signed just days before he was forced to play in a game. Late-round rookie Jaren Hall wasn’t close to being ready to play in an NFL game and he started two of them. In 2025, the Vikings played three quarterbacks. Two had never taken an NFL snap before the season. Like Hall, undrafted Max Brosmer wasn’t ready for an NFL game and he started two and played in seven. The Vikings don’t want a repeat of the quarterback disasters of 2023 and 2025. At the Scouting Combine, both O’Connell and interim general manager Rob Brzezinski stressed the need for a deep and capable quarterback room. Hopefully, the Vikings never again have the quarterback injuries of those two seasons. If a third quarterback is needed in 2026, there must be a third quarterback that can confidently come in and win a game, or more. No more rookies not ready for an NFL regular season game. No more desperate, in-season trades. 

Overall, the Vikings have not been active in free agency. They have been active in the quarterback market with the signing of Kyler Murray and re-signing of Carson Wentz. The Arizona Cardinals are paying nearly $40 million of Murray’s 2026 salary. That generosity gave the Vikings the opportunity to sign Murray for a league-minimum $1.3 million. It’s the league’s best bargain. As Kevin O’Connell said after the signing, he doesn’t have to name a starting quarterback in March. That’s true. There will be a competition. Despite that competition, the easy assumption is that Murray will be the starter in September. Many talking heads have speculated that the signing of Murray and re-signing of Wentz will spark the end of J.J McCarthy’s short time in Minnesota. It’s a knee-jerk, idiotic take. McCarthy is the only quarterback on the roster signed beyond 2026. The Vikings liked him enough in the 2024 NFL Draft to trade up a spot to secure his selection with the 10th pick. His ten starts last year had more bright than shaky moments. Most of his shaky moments followed injuries. He had three injuries that caused him to miss games. A curious thing about those injuries was that he continued to play after each. Five of his seven interceptions came while he continued to player injured. In that sense, he and the coaches could’ve been smarter last year. I don’t see Murray or Wentz on the roster as a threat to McCarthy’s present or future time in Minnesota. The signings of Murray and Wentz were simply to give the Vikings the best possible quarterback options this season. Anything after that is a question for next season. 

After a season peppered with problems at football’s most important position, the Vikings decided that they had to build a strong quarterback room. It’s only March and it’s only on paper but it looks like the Vikings can now confidently go three-deep at quarterback. 

Next up: Vikings Running Backs

Minnesota Vikings Mock Draft Monday

It’s another Monday closer to the 2026 NFL Draft. Here’s another swing at a mock draft for the Minnesota Vikings.

1. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo

2. Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State

3. Jake Slaughter, C, Florida

3. Kaleb Proctor, DL, Southeastern Louisiana

5. Demond Claiborne, RB, Wake Forest

6. Tyren Montgomery, WR, John Carroll

7. Noah Thomas, WR, Georgia

7. Max Bredeson, FB/TE, Michigan

7. Cole Payton, QB, North Dakota State

These mocks are often frustrating because I’m at the mercy of the rankings created by Pro Football Focus. I rarely agree with PFF’s view of football. I doubt that the views of the league’s decision-makers align with the PFF grades either. For example, since the scouting combine, Oregon safety Dillion Thienemen never gets close to the Minnesota Vikings 18th pick. Despite all of that, mock drafts are fun and I kinda like this one.

I see the Minnesota Vikings entering the 2026 NFL Draft with the following needs. 

Safety

Cornerback

Defensive Line

Center

Running Back

Receiver

Linebacker

Basically every position can be considered a Vikings need. It’s the first four of the above positions that must be filled in the draft. In every mock draft I do, safety, corner, defensive line, and center are addressed with the early picks. This mock draft does that. 

More often than not, safety or corner is my pick in the first round. Just to shake things up, I sometimes take a swing at a defensive lineman. I really hope the Vikings come out of the real first round with one of the following players.

Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon

Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson

Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo

In this draft, the pick is the Toledo safety. I believe that he’d be a Day 1 starter. I feel that I lucked into corner Chris Johnson in the second. Come draft day, I believe that Johnson will be a consideration for teams at the end of the first round. The 17th pick in the second round isn’t likely. If the Vikings do luck into Johnson in the second round, I believe that he’d join McNeil-Warren as a Day 1 starter. 

While Blake Brandel is a nice place-holder, I believe that the Vikings must draft a starting center. It’s a good year to need a center as there are few in this draft that could start right away. The Vikings will probably have to use one of their three Day 2 picks on that center. In this mock, it’s their first pick of the third round. With Jake Slaughter, this mock draft would provide the Vikings with three immediate starters in the first three picks. 

I’ve really come to like Kaleb Proctor from what might be considered the second tier of this draft’s defensive linemen. If the position is addressed in the third round of these mocks, I often have to decide between Proctor and Missouri’s Chris McClellan. At more than 320lbs, McClellan is the much bigger player. In deciding between the two, it’s a decision between the smaller, quicker Proctor and the bigger, line-plugger McClellan. 

After bringing back Aaron Jones, running back isn’t an immediate need. This isn’t the running back daft class that last year’s draft brought to the league. There’s still a few intriguing backs that should be available on Day 2 and a couple into Day 3. Demond Claiborne might be one of those available on Day 3. I wish the Vikings had a fourth-round pick to secure one of those intriguing backs. In this mock, Claiborne was an easy pick in the fifth. 

As easy as Demond Claiborne was to pick in the fifth round, selecting Tyren Montgomery in the sixth round was even easier. I assume that he’s being undervalued for playing at itty bitty John Carroll. Don Shula made it work. Maybe Montgomery follows Shula’s path to NFL glory.

Of the last three picks, Max Bredeson is probably the one with the best chance to find an immediate role. I see him as a successor to C.J. Ham at fullback. I’m curious about Noah Thomas for his 6’5” size. I believe that the Vikings could really use a receiver of that size. 

Good things can happen when a team adds a developmental quarterback in, or after, every draft. Cole Payton is this year’s quarterback. 

Until the next mock draft. 

A Vikings Defense

Most of the offseason talk has been about the Minnesota Vikings offense. That happens when there’s quarterback questions. It’s always about the quarterback in today’s NFL. This is a look at a potential Vikings defense. 

Vikings Defense

DE	Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins
NT	Taki Taimani
DE	Jalen Redmond
OLB	Jonathan Greenard
LB	Blake Cashman
LB	Eric Wilson
OLB	Andrew Van Ginkel
CB	Byron Murphy Jr.
CB	Isaiah Rodgers
S	Josh Metellus
S	Harrison Smith

Brian Flores has become one of the league’s highest-paid coordinators for a reason. He crafts a defense that gives offenses problems. The Vikings have improved in each of his three years in Minnesota. Over those three years, the talent has improved. Flores didn’t have much to work with that first year. He has some players now. That’s only helped his schemes. 

The above defense is pulled from the players currently on the roster. Due to salary cap constraints, it’s been a modest free agency. James Pierre was signed early during the “legal tampering” stage and is a nice addition to the cornerback room. Unless the Vikings sign a player or two in the latter stages of free agency, any contributing players to the defense will be found in the draft. 

The big remaining move before the draft may be the career decision of safety Harrison Smith. Technically, he’s already been released. It isn’t official until he announces that he’s done. Personally, I’m nowhere near ready for Smith to retire. I can’t imagine a Vikings defense without #22. I believe that he returns. With or without his return, safety is a need. His 2026 return would simply lessen safety as an immediate need. 

The above defense doesn’t include Dallas Turner. He might be the most physically gifted player on the Vikings defense. I believe that he’s on the verge of ripping up the NFL. Somehow, Flores must get Turner on the field without significantly cutting into the snaps of Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel. The three of them on the field together is an exciting thing. 

It’s easy to see every level of the Vikings defense as draft needs. There’s potential on the defensive line but Jalen Redmond is the only proven presence. At linebacker, Blake Cashman and Eric Wilson are great but both will be over 30 at the start of the season. Cashman has also battled through injuries in each of his two seasons in Minnesota. Cornerback always seems to be a need. Safety is a need partly because Harrison Smith can’t play forever. 

It’s difficult to imagine a 2026 Vikings draft not topped by defensive players. It’s impossible to imagine the Vikings 2026 starting defense not including a pick, or two, from the draft.