Vikings’ top 2026 NFL Draft options at No. 18 overall could give them exactly what they need to get back to the playoffs

The Vikings have a lot of intriguing options in the first round.

Tyler Forness — NFL & College Football News Writer
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Jan 4, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell is seen during warmups prior to the game against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

When it comes to what the Minnesota Vikings will end up doing at 18th overall, there are quite a few different options available to them. Overall, the Vikings have a lot of needs:

  • Defensive tackle
  • Cornerback
  • Inside linebacker
  • Safety
  • Edge rusher
  • Wide receiver
  • Tight end

When you look at how the first round could shape up, the best overall players may not end up fitting the biggest needs for the Vikings, but finding talent is key. Who are the most talented players that could be available? Let’s take a look at the most talented players who should be selected by the Vikings.

5a. KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M

Scouting Report

Wide receiver isn’t the most pressing need for the Vikings, but the board could end up being very fruitful at wide receiver. So fruitful, in fact, that it may be in their best interest to take one. Concepcion is my WR3 in this class and thrives in just about every area on the field. The Vikings have a need at WR3, and taking a player who could thrive in Kevin O’Connell’s offense with a skill set he prioritizes could be a good option for them.

5b. Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn

An edge rusher feels like an odd selection for the Vikings, especially with the 6-6 285 pound frame that Faulk has. What he does offer is a fascinating profile. His pass rush ability needs developing from an overall level, but his size and surprisingly good bend, allows him to be a versatile player on the interior. With Jonathan Greenard possibly being on the move, Faulk could play that role, while also contributing on the inside in certain packages.

4. Makai Lemon, WR, USC

Scouting Report

Lemon is my top wide receiver in the NFL Draft, and it’s surprising how he’s not viewed more higly across the the industry. He plays similarly to fellow USC alumus Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jordan Addison, which would fit perfectly with what O’Connell wants to do. He’s at his best creating space with his route running, and would thrive with the route concepts in his offense.

3. Peter Woods, DT, Clemson

Defensive tackle is a massive need for the Vikings, and Woods is one of the more intriguing options. He was widely viewed as a top-five talent going into the season after an excellent first two seasons for the Clemson Tigers. His pre-draft process after a relatively down year hasn’t been great, but there is still a lot to like with Woods. His experience with twists and stunts paired with his pass rush repertoire makes Woods a really good value here at 18th overall.

2. Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson

Scouting Report

Cornerback is an incredibly deep class this year, and it might be the best position in the entire draft. Even so, Terrell is worth the selection at 18th overall. He might not be the biggest player at 5-11 and 190 pounds, but he can thrive in any situation. His athleticism, ball skills, versatility, and click-and-close ability are top notch, and will thrive in Brian Flores’ defense.

1. C.J. Allen, LB, Georgia

Scouting Report

I’ve already gotten a lot of pushback on the idea of taking a linebacker at 18th overall, especially one that struggles in man coverage. I believe that can improve, but where he thrives is with his intelligence. The athletic profile isn’t fully fleshed out with athletic testing, but he sure looks the part on tape, along with defensive coordinator for the Georgia Bulldogs Glenn Schumann trusting him to run a relatively complex scheme. Intelligence is such a big factor in how Flores runs his defense, and Allen could come in and do the same.

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