Top 10 Minnesota Vikings Prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft
The Minnesota Vikings are facing a challenging season, and their chances of playoff contention are dwindling. Following a disappointing loss to the Green Bay Packers, attention is now shifting toward the 2026 NFL Draft. Currently, if the season were to end today, the Vikings would hold the No. 12 overall pick. With several tough matchups ahead, including games against the Seattle Seahawks and key divisional rivals, the team’s struggles may continue. Fans are now looking ahead to promising collegiate prospects who could make an impact next season.
Top 10 Minnesota Vikings Prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft
As the Vikings begin to plan for next year, here are ten notable prospects to watch closely throughout the college football season:
Quarterbacks
- Fernando Mendoza (Indiana) – Leading candidate for the Heisman Trophy, Mendoza has thrown 30 touchdown passes against only five interceptions, showcasing notable arm talent at 6’5″.
- Dante Moore (Oregon) – Completing 73% of his passes with 23 touchdowns and only six interceptions, Moore is known for his smooth mechanics and playmaking ability.
- Ty Simpson (Alabama) – After stepping in as a starter, Simpson has demonstrated accuracy and poise with 22 touchdowns and four interceptions in 2026.
Non-Quarterbacks
- Jeremiyah Love (RB, Notre Dame) – With 1,580 yards and 20 touchdowns this season, Love is making a strong case as the leading running back prospect.
- Caleb Downs (S, Ohio State) – Downs has emerged as a top safety, boasting 16 tackles for loss and six interceptions in his career, and could be a top-five pick.
- Mansoor Delane (CB, LSU) – Following a strong season with four interceptions, Delane is positioning himself as the top corner in the draft.
- Jermod McCoy (CB, Tennessee) – Despite recovering from an ACL injury, McCoy has shown potential, with four interceptions in the previous season.
- Peter Woods (DT, Clemson) – Renowned for disrupting both run and pass plays, Woods remains a top defensive tackle prospect despite a drop in tackles for loss.
- Kenyon Sadiq (TE, Oregon) – With eight touchdown receptions this season, Sadiq has great potential as a tight end, fitting well in the Vikings’ offensive scheme.
- Carnell Tate (WR, Ohio State) – An exceptional route runner, Tate represents a future investment for the Vikings’ receiving corps, following a lineage of successful Ohio State receivers.
As the Vikings’ season unfolds, their strategy for the offseason may heavily depend on their draft positioning. Familiarizing themselves with these ten prospects could provide invaluable insights as Minnesota prepares for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
