The 8 Best Draft Picks in Vikings History

From Fran Tarkenton to Justin Jefferson, these are the stars who changed the franchise

Mar. 30, 2026 at 12:05am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft, so the team's fanbase is reflecting on the best draft picks in franchise history. This article ranks the top 8 Vikings draft selections that had the biggest impact on the team, from legendary quarterback Fran Tarkenton to rising star wide receiver Justin Jefferson.

Why it matters

The Vikings have a storied history of finding elite talent through the draft, from Hall of Famers like Alan Page and Randy Moss to modern standouts like Adrian Peterson and Justin Jefferson. Revisiting the team's best draft picks provides valuable context as the Vikings prepare for another crucial draft that could shape the future of the franchise.

The details

The article breaks down the top 8 Vikings draft picks of all time, analyzing their statistical accomplishments, awards, and overall impact on the team. The list is headlined by quarterback Fran Tarkenton, who spent 18 seasons with the Vikings and held numerous passing records upon his retirement in 1978. Other top picks include defensive tackle Alan Page, wide receiver Randy Moss, running back Adrian Peterson, and current star wideout Justin Jefferson.

  • The Minnesota Vikings are set to participate in the 2026 NFL Draft in 25 days.
  • Next week, the article will profile the worst draft selections in Vikings history.

The players

Justin Jefferson

A wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings who was drafted in the 1st round in 2020. He has been named to 4 Pro Bowls and 2 First-Team All-Pro teams, and has the most receiving yards through the first 6 seasons of an NFL career.

Adrian Peterson

A running back who played for the Minnesota Vikings from 2007 to 2016. He was a 7-time Pro Bowler, 4-time First-Team All-Pro, and is second in the NFL in career rushing yards and rushing touchdowns.

Chris Doleman

A defensive end who played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1985 to 1993 and 1999. He was an 8-time Pro Bowler, 3-time First-Team All-Pro, and ranks 7th on the NFL's all-time sacks list.

Randy Moss

A wide receiver who played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1998 to 2004. He was a 4-time First-Team All-Pro, 6-time Pro Bowler, and is second in NFL history in receiving touchdowns.

Randall McDaniel

An offensive guard who played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1988 to 1999. He was a 12-time Pro Bowler and 7-time First-Team All-Pro, anchoring the Vikings' offensive line during his career.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Next week, the article will profile the worst draft selections in Vikings history.

The takeaway

The Minnesota Vikings have a rich history of finding elite talent through the draft, from Hall of Famers like Fran Tarkenton and Alan Page to modern stars like Adrian Peterson and Justin Jefferson. As the team prepares for the 2026 NFL Draft, revisiting their best draft picks provides valuable context and insight into the franchise's ability to identify and develop top-tier players.