NFL Draft Expert Grades Minnesota Vikings 2026 Draft Class

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Vikings focused on balance and depth in the 2026 NFL draft, a strategy that earned a “B” grade from EasySportz’s in-house NFL analyst in its team-by-team evaluation.

Minnesota opened by selecting defensive lineman Caleb Banks in the first round, then added offensive lineman Jake Goliday in the second, addressing both sides of the line early. The Vikings followed with a trio of third-round picks — Domonique Orange, Caleb Tiernan and Jakobe Thomas — continuing to build depth across the roster.

The Vikings added fullback Max Bredeson and defensive back Charles Demmings in the fifth round, then selected running back Demond Claiborne in the sixth before closing with Gavin Gerhardt in the seventh.

EasySportz’s analyst noted the class emphasized physicality and depth rather than headline talent, with Banks projecting as a potential early contributor along the defensive front. The report also highlighted the volume of mid-round picks as a way to strengthen overall roster competition.

National evaluations reflected a similar view, with analysts pointing to solid value and roster-building strategy while noting a lack of high-end impact players.

Overall, the Vikings’ draft was viewed as a steady, workmanlike class with depth across multiple positions — reflected in the analyst’s B grade.