Vikings Mailbag Looks Ahead to NFL Draft

With the draft just a week away, Minnesota fans have questions about free agency and the team's QB situation.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:30pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football game, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes in the Vikings' signature colors of purple and gold.The Vikings' offseason moves and draft strategy will shape the team's trajectory for the 2026 season and beyond.Grand Forks Today

The Minnesota Vikings mailbag covers a range of topics as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, including free agency moves, the team's quarterback situation, and expectations for the upcoming draft.

Why it matters

The Vikings are looking to build on a disappointing 2025 season and return to the playoffs. Their decisions in free agency and the draft will be crucial in shaping the roster for the 2026 campaign.

The details

Fans weighed in on the Vikings' free agency moves, with some wishing the team had done more to address needs on the offensive and defensive lines. There was also discussion around the team's quarterback situation, with Kyler Murray joining Carson Wentz and J.J. McCarthy. The mailbag also touched on the team's draft strategy, with a focus on positions like safety, center, and linebacker.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is just one week away.
  • The Vikings' offseason program opens on April 20.
  • Organized team activities and minicamp will provide further insight into the team's plans.

The players

Kyler Murray

The veteran quarterback signed with the Vikings in free agency and is expected to compete for the starting job.

Carson Wentz

The former first-round pick joined the Vikings last season and will provide depth at quarterback.

J.J. McCarthy

The Vikings' 2025 first-round pick is looking to take a step forward in his development after a challenging rookie season.

Harrison Smith

The veteran safety is a free agent, and the Vikings may look to the draft to find his eventual replacement.

Dillon Thieneman

The Purdue and Oregon safety is a popular mock draft projection for the Vikings in the first round.

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What they’re saying

“Time to learn from past mistakes!!”

— Roman, Fan from Grand Forks, North Dakota

“New year, new hope!”

— Roman, Fan from Grand Forks, North Dakota

“Hoping for playoffs and possible Super Bowl this season. Have to think positive, been waiting for a long time. Purple People Eaters have risen!!”

— William, Fan from Florida

What’s next

The Vikings will continue their offseason program, with organized team activities and minicamp providing more insight into the team's plans for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Vikings are facing a critical offseason as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign. Their decisions in free agency and the draft will be crucial in shaping the roster, and fans are eager to see how the team's quarterback situation plays out.