Minnesota Vikings get new name on defense in Field Yates' 2026 NFL Mock Draft
The Vikings are coming off a draft with limited picks, but they're now heading into 2026 reloaded. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has shown he can build a roster through free agency, but the draft remains a work in progress. He has improved significantly since his first class in 2022, but 2026 is expected to be a pivotal year.
The latest mock draft we get to see before the start of the college season comes from ESPN's Field Yates. The ESPN fantasy and draft analyst gave the Vikings a player that is going to be new to fans, as is the position being mocked to them, as he gave them Northwestern edge rusher Anto Saka.
He writes, "Saka is one of those players who immediately widens your eyes when you watch his tape. His incredible explosiveness puts pass protectors on their heels. Saka's numbers are just OK through two seasons (nine sacks over 22 games), but he draws a lot of attention from opponents and is still a bit raw as a prospect. The starter kit of desirable traits is there."
Yates admits the need isn't huge for them, but he also reminds everyone that having an arsenal of pass rushers is helpful.
"Is edge rush a gigantic need for the Vikings? No. Is there such a thing as too much depth at that position? Also no. Saka could fit in nicely with Jonathan Greenard, Andrew Van Ginkel and Dallas Turner."
The Eagles showed last year, and the Chiefs and Bucs have shown in others, that having a deep group of pass rushers is effective. The offensive line cannot take out their players, but defenses can rotate their guys in and out when they have the depth to do it.
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