Should the Vikings accept these trades?
Bill Barnwell at ESPN wrote an article detailing a potential trade at each spot in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft on Monday, April 6. The Minnesota Vikings were mentioned in three transactions, ranging from trading up, trading down or even moving on from JJ McCarthy.
While these are purely speculation, let’s see how Barnwell did and grade each of the Vikings proposed draft-day trades.
Vikings get: 1-25 and 2-60
Bears get: 1-18 and 5-163
Grade: A
This draft class lacks elite talent, but compensates with numerous contributors on day-two. As a result, trading back and acquiring more picks is smart. Having an extra second-round selection gives the Vikings more flexibility and doesn't force them to address the secondary in round-one.
Adding Emmanuel McNeil-Warren or Dillon Thieneman to bolster the defense is still ideal, but wouldn’t be necessary in this scenario. For example, the Vikings can opt for a defensive back later if they fall in love with a wide receiver or defensive lineman.
The Vikings should jump at the opportunity to trade back and gain future picks. This trade proposal gives them that opportunity - they shouldn't think twice.
Vikings get: 1-9 and Felix Anudike-Uzomah
Chiefs get: 1:18, 3-97 and Jonathan Greenard
Grade: B
This trade makes sense in one instance: Caleb Downs is still available. The price is steep, but adding a franchise cornerstone is worth the cost.
The Vikings’ willingness to ship off Jonathan Greenard will be telling of his rehab. He’s an excellent piece when healthy, reeling in 12 sacks and 18 tackles for loss in 2024, but has battled with injuries and will be 29 in May. Because of this, adding Felix Anudike-Uzomah - a former first-round pick who’s struggled to produce - could make sense. He’s unproven, but can still become an impactful presence.
Vikings get: 1-13
Rams get: 1-18, 3-97 and JJ McCarthy
Grade: F
This trade would be detrimental to the Vikings’ future. First off, it's irrational to give up on JJ McCarthy after one season. His inconsistencies are frustrating, but he still has potential. They brought in Kyler Murray as a contingency plan, but not as the long-term starter. If McCarthy fails, this can be re-evaluated next season, but for now, it isn’t an option.
Additionally, who would the Vikings be trading up for? Caleb Downs is the obvious answer, but he’s likely gone by this point. Either Dillon Thieneman or Emmanuel McNeil-Warren will be available at pick 18 - it doesn’t make sense to give up future value. The Vikings shouldn’t touch this trade offer with a 39 and a half foot pole.