The 2026 NFL Draft is still a few months away, but the buzz and excitement surrounding it is already at an all-time high. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly speculating on which players will be selected by their favorite teams, and the Minnesota Vikings are right in the middle of all the rumors.
One of the biggest topics of discussion is who the Vikings will choose with their first round pick. While some are predicting an offensive player to bolster their already strong offense, the majority of mock drafts are predicting that the Vikings will go for a defensive player.
And the name that keeps popping up in these mock drafts is Clemson CB Avieon Terrell. The 6’1″ cornerback has been making waves in the college football world with his impressive speed, agility, and coverage skills. He was a key player in Clemson’s national championship run last season and has continued to impress scouts with his performance this year.
Terrell’s potential fit with the Vikings cannot be overlooked. The team’s defense has been solid in recent years, but there is always room for improvement. With the departure of veteran cornerback Xavier Rhodes, there is a clear need for a young and talented player like Terrell to step in and make an impact.
But Terrell is not the only name being thrown around in regards to the Vikings’ first round pick. South Carolina CB Brandon Cisse is also being heavily considered by many mock drafts. Cisse has been a standout player for the Gamecocks, showcasing his physicality and strong tackling abilities. He has the potential to be a shutdown corner in the NFL and could be a valuable addition to the Vikings’ defense.
Regardless of who the Vikings ultimately choose, one thing is for sure – they are projected to acquire a shocking defensive prospect. Both Terrell and Cisse have the potential to make an immediate impact on the team and help solidify their defense for years to come.
But why are these two players specifically being linked to the Vikings? It could be because of the team’s history of drafting and developing talented defensive players. In recent years, the Vikings have had success with players like Danielle Hunter, Eric Kendricks, and Anthony Barr, all of whom were drafted in the first or second round. This track record could be a major factor in why Terrell and Cisse are being projected to the Vikings.
Another reason could be the team’s current defensive coordinator, Andre Patterson. Patterson has been with the Vikings since 2014 and has played a key role in developing their talented defensive players. His expertise and coaching style could be a major draw for young defensive prospects like Terrell and Cisse.
No matter who the Vikings choose in the 2026 NFL Draft, one thing is certain – they are in a prime position to acquire a top defensive prospect. With a solid track record of developing young players and a talented defensive coordinator, the Vikings are poised to continue their success on the defensive side of the ball.
So, Vikings fans, get ready for an exciting draft season. Whether it’s Avieon Terrell, Brandon Cisse, or another talented defensive player, the future looks bright for the Vikings’ defense. And with the right pick, they could be one step closer to bringing a Super Bowl trophy to Minnesota. Skol!
