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On an annual foundation, the Vikings encourage hope for what the batch of UDFA expertise is able to conducting. The 2026 haul isn’t any totally different, but it surely’s useful to shrink issues right down to the Vikings’ high 3 names to know.
Previous to hiring GM Nolan Teasley, Rob Brzezinski was getting the ultimate name on roster choices. He continued the longstanding sample of being aggressive as soon as the seventh Spherical completed off (PurplePTSD presents the complete tally of UDFA offers). Take a look at a trio of children — one for every offense, protection, and specials — to trace within the offseason competitors.
The Vikings’ Prime 3 UDFA Abilities to Know
No. 1 — WR Dillon Bell
Nov 8, 2025; Starkville, Mississippi, USA; Georgia Bulldogs broad receiver Dillon Bell (86) reacts after a landing in opposition to the Mississippi State Bulldogs through the first half at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Discipline. Necessary Credit score: Wesley Hale-Imagn Photos
Already, Mr. Bell has impressed loads of optimism.
Spending a while watching him at minicamp clarified why there’s a lot buzz. The rookie receiver boasts good measurement and is aware of learn how to minimize violently. Athletic trainers are going to want extra tape to repair up the damaged ankles of the poor defensive backs attempting to sluggish Bell down.
Greatest case for him in 2026 is a job because the WR4. So, too, does he have a shot to play a big function on particular groups. The kickoff returner job is broad open and he’s battling with Myles Worth to be the PR1 (however seems unlikely to beat Worth).
Count on plenty of highlights of Dillon Bell through the offseason. Numerous potential.
No. 2 — P Brett Thorson
Dec 7, 2024; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs punter Brett Thorson (92) punts the ball to the Texas Longhorns through the first half within the 2024 SEC Championship sport at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Necessary Credit score: Brett Davis-Imagn Photos
If the one standards had been punting the ball, then Brett Thorson would have a greater probability of constructing the ultimate roster. What’s a contact unsure, although, is his skill as a holder.
Contemplate what particular groups coordinator Matt Daniels needed to say: “I watched over 300 snaps of this guy at practice and there’s no issue with the holding.” Extra broadly, Daniels did say that Thorson has good fingers.
Now, the apparent caveat: apply isn’t a sport (cue the Allen Iverson video). Holding turns into far more tough when there are huge linemen attempting to disrupt the play as 65,000 Minnesota followers go berserk within the stands. Can Thorson do nicely in that atmosphere? What about when the wind is swirling at Soldier Discipline or when there’s a blizzard at Lambeau?
Thorson presents a booming punt, able to giving his crew wholesome discipline place. He’s working below a UDFA contract that sees $90,000 assured, per OTC. Not a nasty payday for an undrafted punter however not a hindrance for slicing him.
No. 3 — S Jacob Thomas
Dec 23, 2023; Fort Value, TX, USA; Air Pressure Falcons broad receiver Jared Roznos (13) catches a landing reception late within the second quarter with James Madison Dukes security Jacob Thomas (27) defending at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Necessary Credit score: Andrew Dieb-USA TODAY Sports activities
In April, the Vikings added a younger security named Jakoke Thomas within the third Spherical. He’s 22 and is listed as being 6’1″ and 211 kilos. After the draft concluded, there was then a transfer so as to add Jacob Thomas. The 22-year-old security is listed at 6’1″ and 212 kilos.
So, a contact complicated.
The UDFA security was listed because the 131st total security amongst 937 who certified for the PFF rating final 12 months. He boasted a wholesome 77.9 grade for James Madison. Most spectacular is his 86.3 move rush grade.
The security performed 320 snaps within the field, 250 as a free security, 156 within the slot, 57 alongside the d-line, and 4 as a large nook. Contemplate, as nicely, that he supplied his crew a pile of snaps on specials, taking part in a considerable function on kickoff protection, punt protection, punt return, and FG/XP block.
Minnesota gave the younger lad $160,000 assured to develop into a Viking.
Senior Editor for Vikings Territory & PurplePTSD . Twitter & Bluesky: @VikingsGazette. Electronic mail: okay.joudry[at]vikingsterritory[dot]com. Canadian. Jude 1:24-25.
