New Vikings Mock Draft Expert Roundup for 1st-Round Pick

Stability is what the Minnesota Vikings are seeking after a chaotic past year. After multiple disappointing drafts, they have revamped the front office this offseason. The pressure is heating up to compete in arguably the NFL's toughest division.

Ahead of the first round of the draft on April 23, here's a look at what experts are projecting the Vikings will do with the No. 18 pick:

Expert: B/R NFL Scouting Department (3/31)

Selection (No. 18): OT Spencer Fano, Utah

The Minnesota Vikings have an opportunity to land the class' best offensive tackle prospect and then move him to center.

While the approach may come across like a poor use of resources, the type of versatility that Utah's Spencer Fano potentially brings will help the entire offense, while simultaneously upgrading a unit that will be vital as Minnesota attempts to find its long-term solution at quarterback.

"Minnesota has a hole at center following Ryan Kelly's retirement, while right tackle Brian O'Neill is set to hit free agency after the 2026 season," B/R scout Brandon Thorn said. "Fano's profile is reminiscent of current Packers right tackle Zach Tom coming out of Wake Forest.

"While rumors of Tom sliding inside to center never materialized, Fano's would in this scenario. Minnesota is set at the other four spots for the upcoming season. Still, Fano's athletic ability is an instant weapon within Kevin O'Connell's designed run game and offers a potential long-term option at right tackle if O'Neill is not retained."

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Expert: Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN (3/17)

Selection (No. 18): S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon

Expert: Field Yates, ESPN (3/24)

Selection (No. 18): S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon

Expert: Matt Miller, ESPN (3/30)

Selection (No. 18): S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon

Expert: Lance Zierlein, NFL.com (3/31)

Selection (No. 18): CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee

Expert: Daniel Jeremiah, NFL.com (3/17)

Selection (No. 18): S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon

Expert: Dane Brugler, The Athletic (3/4)

Selection (No. 18): S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon

Expert: Danny Kelly, The Ringer (3/4)

Selection (No. 18): S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon

Summary

Replacing franchise great Harrison Smith with Thieneman is the consensus belief for how the Vikings will use their first-round pick. Although the offensive line needs to improve after underachieving last season, the urge to add a top-tier prospect at safety is understandable. The defense can't count on Brian Flores' brilliance alone to remain one of the league's most ferocious units.