Defense dominates Vikings' 2026 draft priorities. Cornerback and linebacker needs loom large, but a surprising quarterback consideration could shake things up.
The Minnesota Vikings (9-8) have a big draft ahead. It's important because of how many pressing needs the team has across its roster.
Bleacher Report noted a handful of potential needs the team will need to fill in the upcoming NFL draft. Their list may surprise.
Four of the six top positions of need land on the defensive side despite a strong season for several Minnesota defenders. The uncertainty around defensive coordinator Brian Flores' return might be the motivation for adding players on the defensive side.
Bleacher Report's first position of need was at cornerback. They highlighted Clemson defensive back Avieon Terrell, Texas defensive back Malik Muhammad and Duke defensive back Chandler Rivers as potential additions the team could make at the position. They wrote the following of the cornerback position need.
"Byron Murphy Jr. leaves something to be desired as defense's No. 1 cornerback, meaning the Vikings could use some added talent at the position for the immediate future. Also, Isaiah Rodgers is only signed through 2026, so the team could use some long-term help at that spot, too."
Surprisingly quarterback was named as a potential draftable position despite the Vikings drafting a quarterback just two offseasons ago. Presumably one would expect that Minnesota would be averse to making the same mistake it made putting its eggs in one basket by drafting starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy. One would think adding a free agent would make more sense. Bleacher Report reasoned differently and said the following.
"The biggest decision the Vikings will have to make this offseason is whether or not they'll stick it out with J.J. McCarthy. An argument could be made in either direction, and how the organization feels about the 2026 quarterback class could be the deciding factor."
Certainly, the Vikings will probably add a quarterback this offseason as insurance. Yet unless a high caliber quarterback falls to No. 18, it's likely Minnesota will focus more on free agent additions than through the draft.
Bleacher Report added linebacker as its final need with the following explanation.
"Eric Wilson is only on a one-year deal and will turn 32 in September. Ivan Pace Jr. has been more of a rotational player after getting benched about halfway through the season and is a restricted free agent this offseason.
Also, Blake Cashman is only signed through 2026. So, Minnesota should be looking to add a young linebacker during this year's draft."
The loss of Wilson, should he not re-sign with the Vikings, would leave a huge void on the Vikings defense. Linebacker could be a good way to go with the first-round pick, and No. 18 could be the perfect place in the draft to make it happen.
The Vikings will look to address all their needs over the 2026 offseason.