Vikings eye top safety prospects for the first round, aiming to bolster Brian Flores' defense and find a Harrison Smith successor.
The safety position is trending for the Minnesota Vikings as they inch closer to the 2026 NFL draft's first round. Two prospects in particular have generated some of the most buzz: Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman and Toleda safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren.
Both players stand to upgrade the Vikings defense, but some are torn on which player will make the greatest impact. Some are uncertain if either player is a true first-round prospect or if Minnesota can find better in the first round.
Preet Shah of Zone Coverage broke down the popular pick that is being made by NFL.com and others. Shah discussed the potential selection of Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren.
"Nick Shook, NFL.com: The Vikings will need a replacement for Harrison Smith sooner or later, whether or not he retires before the season. They find one in McNeil-Warren, a high-energy safety capable of both playing in the box (where he can deliver the blow) and erasing advantages downfield; it’s the ideal blend for Brian Flores’ creative defense.
Shook also has the Vikings sticking with defense, but instead of Thieneman, he has the Vikings selecting the McNeil-Warren, the other popular safety option. Shook argues that while both players are good, McNeil-Warren is a better fit in the Flores defense with his high motor and ability to play both in the box and deep, something Smith did throughout his career.
Instead of sticking to the popular opinion, Shook veers slightly off course, providing an alternative to Thieneman, while also having the Vikings select someone who both fits their needs and is also a scheme fit in the defense."
Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) waits for the snap against the Minnesota Vikings in the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Matt Krohn-Imagn ImagesThe reasoning for why the Vikings would go after either player is clear. The team needs to find its Harrison Smith replacement at safety. The pressing draft need runs deeper than that.
Minnesota is looking to maximize its roster on the defensive side for defensive coordinator Brian Flores while it still can. The top play caller is viewed as a top coaching candidate for next season, despite the near miss in reaching a contract this season at head coach.
Maybe Flores is back after the upcoming season, and maybe not. Nevertheless, the Vikings need to take advantage of a clear window to make a postseason push in 2026 with new quarterback Kyler Murray and an already strong core. We'll see who the Vikings view as the missing piece in the first round.