Which Vikings rookies could play a big role in 2026?

It was an up-and-down three-day stretch for the Minnesota Vikings in the 2026 NFL Draft. Some picks were hits in the eyes of the fans and media, and some left more to be desired. Out of the Vikings' nine selections, five were on the defensive side of the ball. Are there some rookies who could play a huge role in year one for Minnesota?

I believe there are three who could be immediate contributors in 2026.

1) Domonique Orange, DT, Iowa State

There are many questions about Caleb Banks's health and his foot. Should there be lingering issues to begin the season, Domonique Orange could see ample playing time early. He is a massive nose tackle, drafted to support in the run game, but brings upside as a pass rusher. Should he rotate in early, there's a chance he could develop quickly.

2) Demond Claiborne, RB, Wake Forest

My RB3 heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, Wake Forest running back Demond Claiborne, fell to the sixth round but has a real chance to steal snaps early. He brings immediate juice to this offense, and his receiving skills out of the backfield could see him hit the field on third downs. He could see return work early, garnering favor with the coaching staff, but I would not be shocked if he was getting ample touches come November.

3) Jakobe Thomas, S, Miami

Coming into the draft, the most popular mocked pick to Minnesota was Dillon Thieneman in the first round. While the Vikings would go Banks in round one, they would address safety in round three, taking Jakobe Thomas. Thomas is a downhill player who can support in the run game, but has great ball skills on deep passes. He should rotate in early, and by the end of the year, he could be running with the starters.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: The Vikings defensive line can make a big impact in 2026