With the 2026 NFL Draft just over a week away, the Minnesota Vikings' strategy at pick 18 is the hottest topic in the North. Who will they select to bolster their roster? On the latest episode of The Real Forno Show, Tyler Forness cuts through the noise with a bold top-five board and a complete seven-round mock draft, all while offering a masterclass in navigating draft season rumors.

The episode dives deep into the Vikings' ideal approach, arguing that in a deep draft class, targeting the best player available—even at non-premium positions—could be the smartest move. Forness emphasizes critical media literacy for fans, advising to always trace trade rumors back to their original source rather than social media echoes. This lesson was perfectly illustrated with the recent J.J. McCarthy speculation, which was clarified as analyst opinion rather than sourced reporting.

Addressing team needs, Forness makes a compelling case for the Vikings to avoid selecting a defensive back in the first round. He points to defensive coordinator Brian Flores's scheme, which values high football IQ, and the depth of the cornerback and safety class, suggesting starter-quality players will be available on Day 2.

So, who tops the list for pick 18? Tyler Forness's top five targets are: Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell, Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy, Texas A&M wide receiver KC Concepcion, Georgia linebacker C.J. Allen, and his number-one choice, Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq. Forness raves about Sadiq's elite athletic profile—a 4.39-second 40-yard dash and a 43.5-inch vertical—positioning him as the dynamic, long-term successor to T.J. Hockenson.

The show wraps with a full seven-round, best-player-available mock draft simulation, providing Vikings fans with a comprehensive look at how the entire weekend could unfold for the purple and gold.