Vikings may target versatile Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq. His proven playmaking and blocking ability make him a surprising "best player available" option.
The Minnesota Vikings are getting set to draft in the 2026 NFL draft in Pittsburgh. One name that surfaced early in the draft process as an option appears to be back on the table.
The Vikings were long considered a potential landing spot for Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq early in draft projections, but some have moved away from Sadiq as the choice in Minnesota. One Minnesota writer says Sadiq is still a very real option at No. 18.
Dustin Baker of Vikings Territory discussed why the Vikings are capable of drafting Sadiq despite having needs elsewhere.
"Minnesota’s tight end room is currently stocked. T.J. Hockenson is under contract through 2026, with a recent restructure potentially extending financial flexibility into 2027. Josh Oliver capably fills the TE2 role, providing a dependable blocking presence, in addition to redzone prowess. On the surface, there’s no immediate urgency to add another tight end.
However, Sadiq remains a wise target. He doesn’t fit the typical “developmental tight end” mold, as he’s already active in the passing game and demonstrates capability as a willing blocker. This versatile combination is crucial for Minnesota’s offense, which prioritizes players who can stay on the field in all situations — a need Sadiq clearly addresses.
The approach aligns with Minnesota’s alleged draft philosophy. Rob Brzezinski has consistently championed a “best player available” strategy in recent weeks. If Sadiq’s grade is high enough within their evaluation, the current depth chart won’t impede his selection."
Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq hauls in a touchdown catch as the Oregon Ducks host the USC Trojans on Nov. 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon. Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn ImagesThe appeal of Sadiq is the offensive playmaking that would inevitably come with adding him to the roster. The Oregon tight end has proven an adept pass catcher in his short time at the college level. Even so, he adds more than that.
Sadiq has seen buzz as a run blocker, which provides an added element to the potential pick at No. 18. The Vikings would be getting pass catching help that they are not getting at the third receiver position and run blocking help that they are not getting from the offensive line. Incidentally, the Vikings were one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL by several metrics.
Sadiq is not an offensive fix-all pick. The Vikings need a center to help replace the loss of retired center Ryan Kelly. They have other places where they could improve, like the running back position. Still, the Oregon tight end could be a huge addition for an offense that struggled in 2025.