An expert unveils a surprising take on the Vikings' draft board, challenging popular opinion on a highly-touted prospect at pick 18.
The Minnesota Vikings have a diverse set of opinions across the long list of those that cover the team. That much was true all of the 2025 season.
The past season tested just how different each individual expert's thoughts on team building actually are, as Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy's season created one of the more polarizing storylines of the entire NFL season. It was arguably more polarizing inside the Minnesota fanbase than outside.
Now, as the Vikings have a real shot to return to contention the strong team building takes are pouring in from those who cover the NFL. A to Z Sports' Tyler Forness had some head turning opinions as we move closer to the start of the draft. Forness believes that the Vikings should avoid drafting Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman at pick No. 18 despite what seemed to be a growing consensus he could be a steal at that spot.
Here's what Forness shared about the risk of drafting the Oregon safety at No. 18.
"I'm on somewhat of an island here, as I have a high third-round grade on Thieneman and he’s 47th overall on my big board. He's a good player who will end up being a good player for a defense, but that doesn't scream first-round talent. Thieneman has been the most popular with our mock draft tracker by far.
For me, his testing didn't turn up on tape, and he struggled to play as a deep safety. Where he thrived was in the box. The Vikings already have a really good player in the box in Josh Metellus, and having someone who isn’t limited in playstyle like Lewis Cine should be what the Vikings look for. I wish I had seen his athleticism pop on film, but it just didn't for me."
Oregon head coach Dan Lanning, left, talks to defensive back Dillon Thieneman during Oregon Pro Day on March 17, 2026, at the Moshofsky Center in Eugene, Oregon Ben Lonergan/The Register-Guard-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn ImagesThieneman may not have impressed Forness, but he impressed others. The talented safety proved to be one of the most athletic players in this year's draft class by his testing numbers. Forness did not see it translate to the field, and he may not be the only one.
Several NFL scouting departments are going to differ on whether or not a player is a good pick. If Forness were picking at No. 18, however, it is clear that Thieneman would not be in consideration midway through the first round of picks.
We will monitor where the Vikings tier the talented Oregon player as the draft pulls within a week of kicking off in Pittsburgh.