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Eagan Today
By the People, for the People
Vikings Eyeing Oregon Safety in 2026 NFL Draft
ESPN confirms Minnesota's interest in versatile defensive back Dillon Thieneman
Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:49am
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A cubist interpretation of a Minnesota Vikings safety making a play, reflecting the team's interest in a versatile defensive back prospect.Eagan TodayThe Minnesota Vikings are reportedly interested in selecting Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman with their first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Thieneman is widely projected to be a top safety prospect and could be a seamless replacement for veteran Harrison Smith, who may be nearing retirement.
Why it matters
The Vikings have a need at safety with the potential departure of Harrison Smith, a longtime fixture in their secondary. Thieneman's versatility and playmaking ability could make him an ideal fit to step in and contribute immediately.
The details
ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller reported that the Vikings view Thieneman as a potential replacement for the 34-year-old Smith, who has anchored Minnesota's defense for over a decade. Thieneman, 21, is considered one of the top safety prospects in the 2026 class after a standout career at Oregon and Purdue. He impressed at the Scouting Combine, running a 4.35 40-yard dash, and is praised for his instincts, range, and ability to play multiple roles in the secondary.
- The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.
- Thieneman will turn 22 years old in August 2026.
The players
Dillon Thieneman
A 21-year-old safety prospect from Oregon who is widely projected to be selected in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Harrison Smith
A veteran safety who has been a fixture in the Minnesota Vikings' secondary for over a decade since being drafted in the first round in 2012.
What they’re saying
“What we're hearing about the Vikings' draft: Safety Dillon Thieneman (Oregon) is the most mocked player to Minnesota, and for good reason. Word is the front office views him as a seamless replacement for veteran Harrison Smith.”
— Matt Miller, ESPN Draft Analyst
“Savvy three-year starter with NFL size, speed and alignment versatility. Thieneman is an extension of his defensive coordinator, aligning and adjusting the secondary to motion and pre-snap shifts.”
— Lance Zierlein, NFL.com Analyst
What’s next
The Vikings will have to decide if safety is worth the 18th overall pick in the draft, given their other roster needs. Thieneman's status as a potential first-round pick will become clearer as the draft approaches.
The takeaway
The Vikings' reported interest in Dillon Thieneman highlights their need to find a long-term replacement for Harrison Smith in the secondary. Thieneman's versatility and playmaking ability could make him an ideal fit, but the team will have to weigh that against their other roster priorities in the first round.
