The 5 Best Draft Options for the Vikings at No. 18

Caitie McMekin/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images The 2026 NFL draft will kick off on April 26 in Pittsburgh, with Minnesota scheduled to select in the first round with the 18th overall pick. Sitting in the middle of the pack, the Vikings’ draft is in a bit of no man’s land. A Pivotal Draft Slot Brings Multiple Directions into Play for Vikings The more I look at this year’s draft, the more I think trade talks should be happening in Minnesota.

That could be an aggressive move up the board for starting running back Jeremiyah Love, although I think that is unlikely. A trade down looks like the safer bet and could make a lot of sense for the Vikings, given what the team potentially needs on its roster, with safety, defensive tackle, and linebacker as positions that stand out. The talent for those positions that should be on the Vikings’ radar is potentially going to be available late in the first round or on Day 2 of the draft.

It wouldn’t surprise me to see the Vikings trade back from 18 and get an extra pick. Nov 22, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon (6) catches a pass for a touchdown during the first half against the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images However, should they stick and pick at 18, who should they be looking at?

For me, with player ability, draft placement, and positional value taken into consideration. Five players would work at 18 on the Vikings draft. Makai Lemon (WR) – USC Spending a first-round pick on a WR3 feels like a bit of a luxury, but Makai Lemon is the first of two WRs on this list.