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Joey Hickey
2d
Updated at Jan 18, 2026, 18:00
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Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq, a physical force with explosive potential, could revolutionize the Vikings' offense from day one.

The Minnesota Vikings (9-8) struggled offensively in 2025 to put it mildly. For any number of reasons, the offense looked lifeless at times. One player could change all of that next season. He plays tight end.

Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq is drawing high profile comparisons heading into an all-important 2026 NFL draft for the Vikings, whose most recent draft is being noted as one of the worst in the NFL for lack of immediate improvement.

Daniel Harms of "Bleacher Report" thinks that Sadiq has the ability to positively contribute to a team. Perhaps that could happen in a first NFL season. Harms made his thoughts known on the talented pass catcher from Oregon.

“Kenyon Sadiq is one of the most physical and impactful blockers in the entire class. Add in his explosive ability down the field and after the catch to maximize any passing attack, and he’s the TE1 in this class.”

“Sadiq is a former 4-star recruit, and his athletic ability as a multi-sport standout has transitioned to the football field, showcasing his incredible potential as a pass catcher. He’s been working behind the scenes at Oregon and took over as the No. 1 tight end for the Ducks after the Los Angeles Rams selected Terrance Ferguson during the 2024 draft. Pay attention as he showcases why he’s the best tight end in the country.”

Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq hurdles over USC cornerback DeCarlos Nicholson 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 ImagesOregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq hurdles over USC cornerback DeCarlos Nicholson 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 Images

Sadiq is not the perfect prospect. We don't want to build him into the next Tony Gonzalez at tight end. Those who watched the Oregon Ducks' blowout loss to the Indiana Hoosiers saw Sadiq miss on at least one block, whether or not it was his assignment or reasonable for him to make the block.

We also don't want to build up the pick so much that it is a disappointment if the Vikings draft someone else. We are approaching that territory the more Sadiq is linked to the Vikings.

What we do want to communicate is that Sadiq could legitimately improve Minnesota from the start. And that's why so many are writing about the potential move.

Physically, Sadiq is built like a wide receiver with low body fat, but has the mass of a tight end. And while tight ends are usually long limbed, Sadiq is strong, compact and muscular. He's built more like a defensive end or linebacker than tight end and perhaps that's what has scouts excited about his potential. Add in his ability to catch, block and hurdle over defenders and you have one of the more unique prospects in the draft.

We'll keep an eye on whether or not the Vikings believe the same as the draft approaches.