Minnesota Vikings set to have a strong contingent at Ohio State pro day. Here’s what that means

It’s quite a large contingent for the Vikings.

Tyler Forness — NFL & College Football News Writer
Add as preferred source on Google
Ohio State Buckeyes safety Caleb Downs (2) and linebacker Arvell Reese (8) celebrate during the NCAA football game against the Texas Longhorns at Ohio Stadium on Aug. 30, 2025.
Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The NFL Draft could go a multitude of different ways for the Minnesota Vikings, and one thing that could happen is prioritizing the best defense in college football. The Vikings are set to have a strong contingent at the Ohio State Buckeyes’ pro day, with three assistant coaches, all of whom focus on defense: Senior defensive assistant Mike Siravo, assistant defensive backs coach Chenzo Funari, and defensive run game coordinator Ryan Nielsen.

Vikings to have strong contingent at Ohio State pro day

It shouldn’t be much of a surprise that the Vikings are prioritizing the Ohio State pro day. That defense is likely going to have four starters go in the first round, with multiple others being selected. The top prospects from this defense are likely going to work out:

  • S Caleb Downs
  • LB Arvell Reese
  • LB Sonny Styles
  • DT Kayden McDonald
  • CB Davison Igbinosun
  • CB Jermaine Mathews Jr.
  • S Lorenzo Styles

The top three players on this list are likely going to be gone in the top-10, but Downs could end up sliding down the draft board. Seeing him work out and speaking with him could give them incentive to trade up for Downs.

The most likely player they are there to see is McDonald, especially since there are multiple spots open on the defensive line after moving on from both Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave. He isn’t a high-end pass rusher like those two were in their past, but he is very good at stopping the run. Nielsen being in attendance is very likely why McDonald is going to be a target for the Vikings.

The defensive backs are going to be day two or three targets, but they all have the requisite experience necessary to play in a Brian Flores defense.

What will be interesting is seeing where Flores might end up this week, as there are a lot of pro days this week.

Related Articles