As excitement for the 2026 NFL Draft Combine ramps up, VikingsTerritory writers have each selected one “draft crush” they believe fits perfectly into Minnesota’s needs and long-term plans. With nine picks this time around, there will be ample chances to bolster Minnesota’s roster; here are eight players our contributors have highlighted as promising choices on Minnesota’s draft board.
Eight Names We Want for Minnesota’s 2026 Draft Board
Below are our dream fits for the purple team, highlighting players who could make an impact on both sides of the ball.
1. Pat Coogan | Center, Indiana
Watch this guy’s playoff tape, and it’s hard not to appreciate his skills as an offensive lineman. Coogan is a reliable center prospect who could anchor the Vikings’ offensive line for years to come.
2. Malachi Fields | Wide Receiver, Notre Dame
A towering presence at 6’4″, Fields would fill a crucial need if the Vikings part ways with Jalen Nailor. Fields offers the “go up and get it” style of play that has been missing from the Vikings’ receiving corps. In an ideal scenario, he and Jefferson could serve as boundary receivers, with Addison operating primarily out of the slot.
3. Dillon Thieneman | Safety, Oregon
The Vikings face important questions around their first-round pick at No. 18—whether to stay put, move up, or move down. In addition, the recent firing of Kwesi Adofo-Mensah means new decision-makers will shape the draft strategy. Thieneman is a player to watch, potentially replacing Harrison Smith in the secondary. He combines solid size with high football IQ and is often described as an extension of the defensive coordinator on the field. If available in rounds two or three, the Vikings should move quickly to secure him.
4. Akheem Mesidor | EDGE, Miami
For those who appreciate elite defensive line play, Mesidor stands out. This Canadian edge rusher brings skill and tenacity, making him an appealing candidate for Minnesota’s defense.
5. Mansoor Delane | Cornerback, LSU
Cornerback remains a pressing need for the Vikings. Delane is a talented cover corner who might be gone by the Vikings’ first-round selection, but if he’s still available, he is definitely worth taking. With Isaiah Rodgers in the final year of his contract, strengthening this position is crucial.
6. Jermod McCoy | Cornerback, Tennessee
If Delane is off the board, McCoy would be a top corner target for Minnesota at No. 18. McCoy offers the potential to help solidify the secondary moving forward.
7. Nick Singleton | Running Back, Penn State
Imagine a 22-year-old back who stands 6’0″, weighs 220 pounds, runs a quick 4.39 in the 40-yard dash, hit 23.6 mph game speed, and can catch passes out of the backfield. That’s Nick Singleton. He could be available in rounds three or four and would be a dynamic addition to the Vikings’ backfield.
8. Caleb Banks | Defensive Tackle, Florida
The Vikings require reinforcement on the defensive line, and Banks fits that bill as an interior defender capable of both stopping the run and applying pressure to quarterbacks. Paired with Jalen Redmond, Banks could form an effective young duo in the trenches. At 6’6″, and 330 pounds he offers rare size combined with quickness – something Minnesota should take note of given Banks is projected as late first-round selection after his stellar Senior Bowl performance and projected as an intriguing option to increase young defensive line talent on defense.
Banks’ physicality and skill would complement the Vikings’ emphasis on building strength on both sides of the ball, giving their defensive front an added dimension of defense.