4 Vikings Players on Thin Ice after the Draft
Jeffrey Becker The 2026 NFL Draft revealed nine new players, while undrafted free agency brought about 20 more. Accordingly, as with every cycle, a few Minnesota Vikings players were quietly and indirectly put “on notice” by Minnesota’s roster decisions . The draft did more than add rookies.
It squeezed several veterans and young depth pieces. These are those players in 2026, listed alphabetically. Minnesota’s Post-Draft Roster Bubble Is Clearer Which player is on the hot seat in your estimation?
During the 2024 season, Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Levi Drake Rodriguez celebrates with teammate Bo Richter after a key defensive play, with 2024 action reflecting the energy of a young defensive front finding its rhythm. Rodriguez’s disruption and Richter’s support showcased depth, momentum, and emerging contributors carving out roles. Mandatory Credit: Alli Rusco-Vikings.
com 1. Levi Drake Rodriguez (NT) Drake Rodriguez’s long-term outlook shifted the moment Minnesota doubled up at defensive tackle. Nobody among Vikings fans or analysts expected the team to draft two defensive tackles before the end of Round 3.
Then, when Orange was selected Friday night, the depth chart suddenly looked different. Before that pick, Drake Rodriguez still had a believable path to becoming Minnesota’s long-term nose tackle. After the pick, though, that theory vanished quickly.
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