With Harrison Smith entering free agency, and potential retirement, the Minnesota Vikings are in need of a new safety. Luckily for them, the 2026 NFL Draft may offer the franchise their best long-term option.
The Vikings-safety connection has been no secret, with numerous mock drafts making the fit. The hype is not dying down of Minnesota selecting Oregon’s Dillon Thieneman with their No. 18 overall pick, via Matt Miller of ESPN.
“Safety Dillon Thieneman (Oregon) is the most mocked player to Minnesota, and for good reason,” Miller wrote. “Word is the front office views him as a seamless replacement for veteran Harrison Smith. The Vikings must hit at a higher rate on Day 2 picks, and with that in mind I’ve heard the team will target players with higher college production over potential or traits.”
Thieneman spent his first two collegiate seasons before transferring to Oregon for one final year. Over 39 games total, he put up 306 tackles, 14 passes defended and eight interceptions. As a freshman, the safety was named Third-team All-American after putting up a career-high six interceptions. Thieneman ended his career as a First-team All-American as his 89.9 grade from Pro Football Focus ranked eighth out of 914 safeties.
Even if Smith were to return for his 15th season, the Vikings need a long-term option at safety. With Brian Flores still the defensive coordinator, he’ll be looking for playmakers and defensive backs who fit his scheme perfectly. With Thieneman mocked to Minnesota so often, it appears he would fit that category. The only question remaining is if he will be available at No. 18.
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