What Route the Vikings Should Take with Their 2026 First Round Pick?
The Minnesota Vikings possess the 18th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. It was a disappointing season for the Vikings, ending third in the NFC North with a 9-8 record. The team decided to go with quarterback J.J. McCarthy as their starter, despite making the playoffs the previous season with quarterback Sam Darnold. The Seattle Seahawks would win the Super Bowl with Darnold this season, leaving Vikings fans more disappointed with the decision after a tough year. Now, the lights are even brighter for head coach Kevin O’Connell, who needs to nail this year's draft and bring his team back into the playoffs. Luckily for the franchise, they have plenty of options for the direction they want to take with their first-round pick.
First Priority: Reinforce the Secondary
The position the Vikings should focus on acquiring talent for is safety. Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman should be Minnesota’s number one priority, as he would fill a much-needed spot in the defense with his explosive talent. The former Oregon Duck earned 306 total tackles, eight interceptions, and two forced fumbles in his three-season college career. His name has consistently been linked to the Vikings, leaving that option on the table for the team.
Defensive Line Help Remains on the Table
Minnesota can also opt to fill another position on defense, particularly the defensive line. Clemson defensive lineman Peter Woods could potentially still be available when the Vikings go on the clock, filling the spot after the team had some departures. Woods had 14.5 total sacks through his three seasons at Clemson, showing his dominance on the field. While the Vikings should focus on a defensive pick, they do have the option of going with an offensive pick.
A Surprise Offensive Weapon?
Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq can be an intriguing option for the team if he’s still available and provides the Vikings a chance to develop him at his position. Going this route has proven to work, as their division rival, the Chicago Bears, had major success with tight end Colston Loveland. Sadiq earned 560 yards and eight touchdowns in 2025, raising his draft stock as well at the combine, where he set a record for tight ends with a 4.39 40-yard dash. The Vikings hopefully have their answer at quarterback in Kyler Murray, who could potentially use another weapon with whom he can develop a strong relationship. With the Vikings having different options, it will be an interesting round one for Minnesota.
