Minnesota Vikings Draft Guide — The Lead’s 2026 NFL Draft Previews
The Minnesota Vikings were one of the biggest ‘what-ifs’ of the 2025 NFL season. General Manager Kwasi Adofo-Mensah let the quarterback who led them to a 14-3 record just a year ago walk. Now, Darnold is a Super Bowl champion, and Minnesota will navigate the 2026 draft with an interim GM.
With an injury-prone J. J. McCarthy (or newly acquired Kyler Murray ) under center, the Vikings’ short-term outlook is uncertain at best.
After swinging and missing frequently in recent years, Minnesota will look to repair an aging roster with a strong rebound draft. Vikings Draft Picks: Round 1: Pick 18 Round 2: Pick 49 Round 3: Pick 82 Round 3: Pick 97 Round 5: Pick 163 – from Eagles Round 6: Pick 196 – from Colts Round 7: Pick 243 Round 7: Pick 235 – from Panthers Round 7: Pick 244 – from Texans Vikings Positions of Need: Cornerback: Byron Murphy Jr. is an excellent first option, and Isaiah Rodgers is coming off a breakout season.
Outside of those two, the Vikings lack the talent to support a consistent room and will likely be looking for a third starter early and additional depth late. Interior Defensive Line: Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen were both veteran signings intended to bolster a major weakness of Brian Flores’ otherwise stout defensive unit. Neither panned out entirely, and Minnesota could afford to get younger along the interior, especially with a high-ceiling three-technique prospect.
Running Back: Jordan Mason has proven to be a capable early-down hammer and plug-in starter. But with Aaron Jones on the wrong side of 30, a more explosive, pass-catching rookie will certainly be on the Vikings’ wish list. Vikings Key Draft Targets: Avieon Terrell – CB – Clemson The brother of Falcons standout A.