Now I will be the first to say, you can’t really judge the success of an NFL Draft until about three years down the road. So, evaluating the Minnesota Vikings’ 2026 draft three days after its completion is a bit premature by any measure. But what the fans want, the fans get. So what follows is my first look opinion of how they fared in this latest draft.

Draft time has been difficult for us Vikings fans during the Kwesi Adofo-Mensah era, with many picks that never panned out and drop-back selections that were head scratchers. But with Rob Brzezinski at the helm this time, ably assisted by Minnesota head coach Kevin O’Connell and defensive coordinator Brian Flores, Purple fans were hoping for a more favorable outcome.

2026 Minnesota Vikings NFL Draft Picks

Round 1, Pick 18: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida

Count me among the many who were both confused and disappointed by the Vikings’ selection of the big Florida defensive tackle with the 18th overall pick. Banks is a terrific three-down tackle, but played inconsistently and now has suffered two serious foot injuries in the past nine months. With perfect fit Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman ready and available, Banks’ development over the next few seasons will be heavily scrutinized by Minnesota fans.

On many experts’ boards, Banks‘ value had dropped significantly, placing him in the pickable late second round territory. If this pick pans out, Brzezinski and crew look like geniuses. But if it doesn’t, there will be hell to pay.

Round 2, Pick 49: Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati 

Versatile athlete who should fit nicely into Flores’ defensive scheme. Speed to burn makes him deadly in pursuit, and his recognition of the game increased greatly this past season. Golday is still a work in progress on pass defense, but has time to grow in this area under the tutelage of Vikings veteran linebackers Blake Cashman and Eric Wilson.

Should contribute immediately on special teams and should eventually develop into a first-rate starting NFL inside linebacker. But with more critical needs in their secondary and elsewhere, why use this pick on a development player at a non-high need position?

Round 3, Pick 82: Domonique Orange, DT, Iowa State

Finally, a pick that makes sense. Not only a terrific value selection, but a player who should help the Vikings from the get-go. Massive run disruptor who runs exceedingly well for his size, and his lateral progressions are surprisingly agile. Not known as a dynamic pass rusher, but has the motor to improve. Should fit nicely as a nose tackle in Flores’ defense.

Round 3, Pick 97: Caleb Tiernan, OT, Northwestern

Really nice pickup for the Vikings, who need depth on the exterior of their offensive line. Flexible tackle who played on both sides for the Wildcats. Plays with a strong base and uses hands effectively to stave off opposition edges and blitzers. Smallish arms may eventually facilitate a move inside. Great insurance for Minnesota with the injury history of current tackles Christian Darrisaw and Brian O’Neill.

Round 3, Pick 98: Jakobe Thomas, S, Miami

I would have preferred that the Vikings choose his college running mate, Keionte Scott, or South Carolina’s Jalon Kilgore at this spot. Initially should help on a rotational basis and on special teams. Reads plays very well and is aggressive in his pursuit of ball carriers. Effective as a blitzer, but overaggressive play forces some missed tackles. Thomas needs to mature in his coverage skills. Could become a competent deep defender in the NFL.

Round 5, Pick 159: Max Bredeson, FB, Michigan

Universally loved pick, and I have to agree. Hard-nosed blocker with the flexibility to play the H-back and tight end positions. Picks up blitzers effectively and is not afraid to go toe-to-toe with bigger defensive linemen. O’Connell and the Vikings will deploy him often in passing situations similar to their usage of the just-retired C.J. Ham.

Round 5, Pick 163: Charles Demmings, CB, Stephen F. Austin

Smart later round pick for Flores’ defense. Fast, ball-hawking defender who should fit nicely into the Vikings’ scheme. Excels at bump and man coverage, and will need time to develop his potential in zone deployments. Small school background scared off some teams, but Demmnings is a hard-working, willing-to-learn athlete who projects to be an excellent outside cornerback.

Round 6, Pick 198: Demond Claiborne, RB, Wake Forest

The dynamic Claiborne should add some speed and excitement to the Vikings’ running attack. Versatile player who can beat you on the ground, with his receiving skills, and his kick return prowess. He has speed to burn, and his quick bursts leave defenders empty-handed as they try to corral him. Has a history of fumbles and dropped passes, so ball retention will be a high priority for him as he moves to the next level.

Round 7, Pick 235: Gavin Gerhardt, C, Cincinnati

It probably would have been advantageous for the Vikings to have selected a center earlier in the draft. The quality of play at the position for the last seven seasons has wreaked havoc on their offensive drives, especially in passing situations. Minnesota seems content to give the flexible Blake Brandel a shot at securing the position. Gerhardt brings plenty of experience to the Vikings and strong pass protection skills. Projects to be a valuable contributor down the road.

Summary

The development and future play of Banks will significantly determine the ultimate final grade for the Minnesota Vikings’ Class of 2026. But lengthy contributions from players such as Orange, Brederson, and Demmings might markedly improve the long-term overall value of this draft class.