Vikings 2026 Mock Draft Tracker: Version 3.0

Experts predict Minnesota will target defensive backs in the first round

Feb. 24, 2026 at 9:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The NFL Scouting Combine is underway, and draft experts are projecting which players the Minnesota Vikings will select with the 18th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Many analysts believe the Vikings will target a defensive back, with cornerbacks like Jermod McCoy, Brandon Cisse, and Avieon Terrell frequently mocked to Minnesota. Safety prospects Dillon Thieneman and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren have also been linked to the Vikings in these early mock drafts.

Why it matters

The Vikings' secondary was a strength in 2025, but the team may need to address the position with the potential retirement of veteran safety Harrison Smith. Upgrading the defensive backfield could help Minnesota's defense remain one of the NFL's best under coordinator Brian Flores.

The details

In the third iteration of their Mock Draft Tracker, analysts have identified 11 unique players who could be selected by the Vikings at No. 18. The most frequently mocked prospects are cornerbacks Avieon Terrell (5 mentions) and Jermod McCoy (2 mentions), as well as safeties Dillon Thieneman (2 mentions) and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (2 mentions). Other players linked to Minnesota include Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks, Penn State offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane, and Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love.

  • The NFL Scouting Combine begins on Thursday, February 24 and runs through Sunday, February 27.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23-25.

The players

Jermod McCoy

A cornerback from the University of Tennessee who has been projected as a potential first-round pick for the Vikings.

Brandon Cisse

A cornerback from the University of South Carolina who is known for his unique combination of strength and athleticism.

Avieon Terrell

A cornerback from Clemson University and the younger brother of Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell.

Dillon Thieneman

A safety from the University of Oregon who has impressed scouts with his versatility and playmaking ability.

Emmanuel McNeil-Warren

A safety from the University of Toledo who could be a good fit in Minnesota's defense under coordinator Brian Flores.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“McCoy showed good length and the ability to play man coverage and will be fully healthy in 2026. He also displayed a smooth backpedal, breaks quickly on routes and has excellent hands.”

— Blake Brockermeyer, CBS Sports

“Avieon Terrell might not have the upside that players like Mansoor Delane, Jermod McCoy and Brandon Cisse have, but his floor may be the highest of that group. At worst, he should be a starting CB like his brother, Falcons CB A.J. Terrell.”

— Tim Crean, CLUTCHPOINTS

“Are teams undervaluing the running back position again? The Vikings cannot pass on a top-three talent in this year's draft. Head Coach Kevin O'Connell will find plenty of plays for him.”

— Charles Davis, NFL Network

“Thieneman has the raw athleticism to blow up the combine and fill up the bandwagon.”

— Gennaro Filice, NFL.com

“Terrell is ideal for Brian Flores' secondary scheme.”

— Vinnie Iyer, The Sporting News

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This mock draft tracker highlights the Vikings' potential focus on upgrading their secondary in the 2026 NFL Draft, with cornerbacks and safeties frequently projected to Minnesota at pick No. 18. The team's defense was a strength in 2025, and adding more talent to the defensive backfield could help the Vikings maintain their status as one of the NFC's top teams.