The 2026 NFL Draft wrapped up just a week ago, and now that the dust has settled, it’s time to see how Daily Norseman readers feel about the Minnesota Vikings’ latest crop of rookies. Spoiler alert: the verdict is mostly positive.
In our latest poll, 44% of respondents gave the Vikings a solid “B” grade for their draft selections. Another 29% handed out a “C,” while 12% went all-in with an “A.” That means the overwhelming majority of fans see this class as at least average or better. Only 11% graded the group as a “D,” and a stubborn 4% slapped an “F” on the board—though we’re not entirely sure what they were watching.
Now, if you’ve followed this site for any length of time, you know we’re not big fans of handing out draft grades before these players have even laced up for a single NFL mini-camp, let alone a game that counts. But here’s the thing: a lot of the criticism we’ve seen for the Vikings’ picks feels overblown. The roster holes they needed to fill weren’t the flashy, highlight-reel spots. Instead, they focused on the trenches—getting stronger on both sides of the line. And their early-round selections were laser-focused on that mission.
We have a hunch that when we look back in a few years—when draft classes actually deserve to be graded—this group will look a whole lot better than the “Really Smart Football People™” are giving them credit for now. Especially if defensive lineman Caleb Banks lives up to his potential.
Thanks to everyone who weighed in on this week’s SB Nation Reacts survey. The conversation is just getting started, and we’ll be keeping a close eye on how this class develops.
