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

Stability is what the Minnesota Vikings need after how turbulent things have been over the past year. After multiple disappointing drafts, they have revamped the front office. The pressure is on for them to compete at the top of 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 (4/15)

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

Harrison Smith still hasn't made a decision whether he'll play in 2026. The Minnesota Vikings continue to wait and would welcome Smith back. Even so, the organization needs to seriously look at the safety position and address it long term.

Oregon's Dillon Thieneman has all of the necessary traits to thrive as an NFL free safety.

"Everyone is tired of mocking a safety to the Vikings," B/R scout Daniel Harms said, "but a glaring need exists. Thieneman will not only play on the roof but also has experience playing a robber role. He is a willing tackler and box player, bringing natural instincts, high-end speed and effort to the secondary.

"Defensive coordinator Brian Flores wants to create havoc with different blitzes and looks. Thieneman can cover the back end so those pressures can get home."

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Expert: Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN (4/15)

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 (4/15)

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

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 start their draft. Although the offensive line needs upgrades after underachieving last season, the urge to add a top-tier prospect at safety is understandable. Flores' defense needs a tone-setting safety to continue being one of the league's most ferocious units.