2026 NFL Draft: Miami Hurricanes S Jakobe Thomas Selected with the 98th Pick by the Minnesota Vikings

TL;DR

Jakobe Thomas, a safety from the Miami Hurricanes, was selected 98th overall by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2026 NFL Draft. Known for his physical play and strong performance, he is expected to be a valuable addition to the Vikings' defense.

Key points

Jakobe Thomas selected 98th overall by Minnesota Vikings
Thomas known for physicality and strong defensive skills
Recorded 76 tackles and five interceptions in 2025

Jakobe ThomasMinnesota VikingsMiami Hurricanes

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 15: Miami defensive back Jakobe Thomas (8) returns an interception 60 yards for a touchdown in the first quarter as the Miami Hurricanes faced the NC State Wolfpack on November 15, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Samuel Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images The Miami Hurricanes produced another pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. **S Jakobe Thomas**goes to the Minnesota Vikings with 98th overall pick in the third round of the draft. Thomas is the kind of player who makes the people who study film for a living look very, very smart. In a draft cycle dominated by the glamour of the trench stars on the defensive line, Thomas worked quietly and without fanfare – and yet more than one analyst tracking this Miami class called him the gem of the entire group, the player teams would regret not taking earlier. At 6’1″ and 214 pounds, he brought physicality to Corey Hetherman’s defense as a downhill run-stopping box safety who plays with an intensity that teams chasing culture will immediately recognize and value. He shows passion and aggressiveness with a closing burst that will leave a mark. Thomas recorded 76 tackles, including 3.5 sacks, and also has good ball skills recording five interceptions in 2025. He posted a 4.32 shuttle time as well as a 4.57 40-yard dash, reflecting real lateral range for a player who was never treated as a marquee prospect but produced at every level he was asked to compete at – transferring from Middle Tennessee State (was part of the 45-31 Miami upset) then to Tennessee and finally landed on Miami. This is a good spot for Thomas who can continue his progression with coach Brian Flores and mentors in the secondary in and Joshua Metellus. He is a coachable product and will end up being a real steal. Congrats, Jakobe, and make things happen with Vikings.

Q&A

What are Jakobe Thomas's stats from his college career?

Jakobe Thomas recorded 76 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and five interceptions during his time at Miami.

Why was Jakobe Thomas considered a valuable pick in the 2026 NFL Draft?

Analysts regarded Jakobe Thomas as a hidden gem due to his physicality, intensity, and consistent performance, despite not being a marquee prospect.

Who are the coaches and players that will mentor Jakobe Thomas with the Vikings?

Jakobe Thomas will be mentored by coach Brian Flores and fellow defensive backs Byron Murphy and Joshua Metellus.

2026 NFL Draft: Miami Hurricanes S Jakobe Thomas Selected with the 98th Pick by the Minnesota Vikings

TL;DR

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