Importance of First-Round Picks
Securing successful first-round picks in the NFL draft is crucial, but it’s only part of the bigger picture. This decade, the Vikings have actually performed quite well in the first round. They’ve successfully selected players like Justin Jefferson, Christian Darrisaw, Jordan Addison, and potentially Dallas Turner and Donovan Jackson (only time will tell). Although they missed on Jeff Gladney and Lewis Cine, and J.J. McCarthy seems to be heading that way as well, a 5 out of 8 success rate—featuring one all-time superstar—is commendable.
Struggles with Day 2 Picks
The Vikings have encountered challenges with their Day 2 selections both in Rick Spielman’s last two years and throughout Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s four seasons. They have not derived significant value from Ezra Cleveland, Cameron Dantzler, Kellen Mond, Chazz Surratt, Wyatt Davis, and Patrick Jones II in the 2020-21 drafts. Under Adofo-Mensah, notable Day 2 picks included Andrew Booth Jr., Ed Ingram, Brian Asamoah, Mekhi Blackmon, and Tai Felton, alongside several trades made in recent years.
Significance of Day 2 Picks
The second and third-round selections are essential for building a strong roster, just as uncovering value on Day 3 is important. This year, the Vikings will have a second-round pick (No. 49) and two third-round picks (Nos. 82 and 97), all of which will be pivotal for the team’s future direction.
Strategic Approach to Drafting
According to ESPN’s Matt Miller, the Vikings must improve their success rate with Day 2 picks. He indicated that the team may target players known for higher college production rather than merely focusing on potential or physical traits.
Evaluating College Production
The process of evaluating college production against factors such as raw athleticism and future potential is vital during the NFL draft. Each team has its unique way of assessing this dynamic. Should Miller’s information hold true, and if the Vikings prioritize prior performance on Day 2 this year, there are eight players who could be strong candidates for selection.
Potential Picks for the Vikings
Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
Rodriguez was a unanimous All-American and a Heisman finalist in the 2025 season, recording 128 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, four interceptions, and seven forced fumbles. He was highly productive the previous year as well. With incredible instincts and high football IQ, he’s on the smaller side for an NFL linebacker, but if still available at pick 49, he could be a strong attraction for the Vikings.
Lee Hunter, DT, Texas Tech
Defensive tackle Lee Hunter was a significant contributor to Texas Tech’s defense. A UCF transfer, he notched 10.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks during his tenure, totaling 31 tackles for loss over three seasons. His athletic metrics may not shine, but his on-field performance indicates his ability as a run defender.
D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
Ponds excelled at Indiana, achieving 11 passes defended, two interceptions, a forced fumble, and four tackles for loss. With a PFF grade just shy of 90, he excelled in both pass coverage and run defense. Despite being only 5’8″ and 182 pounds, which may affect his draft position, his talent could persuade the Vikings to consider him.
A.J. Haulcy, S, LSU
Haulcy had significant success at several schools, demonstrating his skills with 87 tackles as a freshman and five interceptions in his junior year. During his last year at LSU, he recorded 88 tackles and three interceptions. Standing just under six feet, he may not be the fastest athlete, but he’s a consistent disruptor in the secondary.
Logan Jones, C, Iowa
Logan Jones, a notable center from Iowa, needs to be on the Vikings’ radar for the third round. A consensus All-American and winner of the Rimington Trophy, he demonstrated impressive skills with a 90.7 PFF pass-blocking grade. Although undersized and set to be 25 as a rookie, his play at Iowa is hard to ignore.
Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
The standout tight end last season was Stowers, who recorded 62 receptions for 769 yards and four touchdowns. At nearly 6’4″ and 240 pounds, he has the versatility of both a tight end and receiver. He showcased an impressive 45-inch vertical leap at the combine, making him an intriguing option for the Vikings.
Skyler Bell, WR, UConn
Bell was a standout receiver last season, catching 101 passes for a total of 1,278 yards and 13 touchdowns. Although he’s on the smaller side at 6 feet and 192 pounds, his masterful route-running ability and impressive YAC potential have drawn attention, making him a valuable prospect.
Emmett Johnson, RB, Nebraska
Johnson had a standout season as one of the top running backs, with 251 carries for 1,451 yards and 12 touchdowns. He’s also shown versatility with 46 receptions for 370 yards. Although he may not be an explosive athlete, his statistics and on-field performance indicate he could be a fun addition to the Vikings’ backfield if selected in the third round.
