Vikings’ Playoff Hopes Dim as Quarterback Struggles Spark Draft Discussions
The unfortunate reality for the Minnesota Vikings has arrived far sooner than anticipated. Following a demoralizing defeat against the Green Bay Packers, the Vikings find themselves effectively out of playoff contention. With the team on a downward spiral, attention is already shifting to next year’s NFL draft.
If the season were to conclude today, Minnesota would secure the No. 12 overall pick. However, the likelihood of further losses looms large if the current quarterback play remains uninspiring. The Vikings are set to face the formidable 8-3 Seattle Seahawks on the road this week, alongside remaining matchups against both the 7-win Packers and Lions, as well as an improved Dallas Cowboys team.
As the season progresses into its final six weeks, the implications for Minnesota’s strategy in the upcoming draft become increasingly significant. Though it may seem premature, Vikings fans should begin familiarizing themselves with some of the collegiate prospects likely to enter the 2026 draft. Here are ten names that could emerge as early-to-mid first-round picks and should be on the radar as the college football season unfolds.
Quarterbacks
It’s impossible to overlook the quarterback position, especially given the current struggles of J.J. McCarthy. With six games remaining – potentially fewer if he fails to clear concussion protocol – there’s a pressing need for him to demonstrate improvement. The worst-case scenario, where he proves unfit to be the starting quarterback in 2026, is increasingly plausible. Should this unfold, Minnesota may find itself following a path similar to that of the Arizona Cardinals in 2019, who drafted Kyler Murray a year after selecting Josh Rosen 10th overall. While the Vikings are unlikely to find themselves with the No. 1 overall pick, they could still decide to pursue a new first-round quarterback option.
Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Mendoza has emerged as a frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy, showcasing an outstanding season with the undefeated Hoosiers. The Cal transfer leads the nation with 30 touchdown passes against just five interceptions, averaging an impressive 9.5 yards per attempt. While he may not possess the elite physical attributes expected of a top pick, his 6’5″ frame and substantial arm talent, coupled with his intelligence on the field, make him a player to watch.
Dante Moore, Oregon
Moore is also enjoying a remarkable season, having thrown 23 touchdowns with only six interceptions and completing 73% of his passes. His mechanics and decision-making are smooth, and he has demonstrated the ability to execute impressive throws at all levels. While he could opt to return to Oregon for another year, the temptation of being a top-ten pick may be too enticing to resist.
Ty Simpson, Alabama
Simpson, once a backup for the Crimson Tide, has stepped into the starting role this season and established himself as a potential mid-first-round selection. Completing 67% of his passes with 22 touchdowns and four interceptions, he may lack standout physical tools but compensates with his sharp processing skills and accuracy. Comparisons to Mac Jones, who was drafted 15th overall in 2021, are inevitable due to their shared Alabama lineage.
Non-quarterbacks
Should McCarthy demonstrate even modest progress, the Vikings may opt to enter next season with a quarterback room featuring him alongside a veteran presence—potentially someone like Jones—to foster competition. This would allow them to focus on securing an impactful player at another position with their first-round pick.
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
Love has taken the crown as the top running back in college football, making a compelling Heisman case for himself. In 11 games, he has amassed 1,580 yards from scrimmage and 20 touchdowns, averaging an astonishing 7.1 yards per carry and 10.5 yards per reception. His explosiveness places him in the same conversation as elite prospects like Bijan Robinson and Jahymr Gibbs. While the Vikings have a solid duo with Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason, Love’s potential could add a dynamic element to their backfield.
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
Downs is likely to be a top-ten pick and could even breach the top five. After a stellar freshman year at Alabama, he has blossomed into a standout player for the Buckeyes. With 16 career tackles for loss and six interceptions, his versatility and explosive playmaking ability would be a welcome addition to a Vikings safety corps that has underwhelmed this season.
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Delane, a transfer from Virginia Tech, is positioned as a leading candidate to be the first cornerback selected in April’s draft. With four interceptions last year and two more this season, he has proven to be a smooth and athletic option capable of excelling in press coverage. The Vikings currently have Byron Murphy Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers under contract beyond this season, but securing a star cornerback could still be on the table.
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
Another strong contender for the cornerback position is McCoy, who has been sidelined this season due to an ACL tear suffered in January. Last season, after transferring from Oregon State, he made a name for himself with four interceptions. NFL teams will need to weigh his talent against the challenges posed by his recovery from injury.
Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
While Woods’ tackle-for-loss production has dipped slightly from last season, he remains a disruptive force on the defensive line. The Vikings invested heavily in veteran defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave this offseason, yet the results have largely been disappointing. With Jalen Redmond emerging as their best interior player, Minnesota might consider moving on from one of the veterans and looking to draft the best player available.
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
T.J. Hockenson has been a disappointment this season, managing just 38 catches for 299 yards in 11 games. With two expensive years left on his contract and the Vikings facing salary cap constraints, they may explore options to move on from Hockenson’s deal. Sadiq presents an exciting tight end prospect, boasting eight touchdown receptions this season and the ability to block effectively—making him an appealing fit for the Vikings’ offensive scheme.
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
While it’s unlikely the Vikings will target a wide receiver in the first round again, it’s worth noting the potential presence of Tate. With uncertainty surrounding Jordan Addison’s long-term future and Jalen Nailor entering free agency, the Vikings could find themselves in a position to consider another wideout if they deem it necessary.
As the Vikings navigate the remainder of this challenging season, the focus will increasingly shift toward the draft, where new possibilities await amidst the disappointment of this year’s campaign.
