New Vikings Idea Comes from Way Out of Left Field
Building a consensus — a process that is held in high regard in the Vikings’ front office — means rallying around Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman going to Minnesota at No. 18. Not so, says Todd McShay of The Ringer.
His mock moves in a very different direction, leading to what seems to be a brand new Vikings idea. McShay’s guess is that WR Denzel Boston is going to slap a horn onto his helmet, writing, “It really comes down to stylistic preference, and for Minnesota, the need is clear: a big, physical outside receiver to complement Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Boston fits that mold perfectly. His ball skills—including a 77 percent contested catch rate—stand out, and he brings the size and physicality this offense is missing. He also pairs well with a mobile quarterback thanks to his natural feel for uncovering downfield in scramble situations. As the new era begins with Kyler Murray under center, this would be a strong, clean fit.”
New Vikings Idea Goes Toward WR at 18
No doubt, there’s some merit in the basic notion that Minnesota could benefit from receiver help.
Some onlookers have connected the purple dots on DeAndre Hopkins, a Hall of Fame (someday, perhaps) talent with built-in chemistry with Kyler Murray. Hopkins hasn’t been shy about his desire for what he wants to do, openly expressing his willingness to jump into a depth receiver roll in the Twin Cities. Signing makes sense so long as the money is modest.
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Another option is to bring in young talent in the 2026 NFL Draft. Most see the possibility as sensible so long as the talent arrives after the 1st.
Young fellas such as Ted Hurst and De’Zhaun Stribling have been looped into the mix. Both look like burners who can win deep, something that their formidable height can help to facilitate. After the draft concludes, undrafted free agency will send over some receiver depth, as well.
Plus, there’s already Tai Felton to work with for the upcoming season. He was a 3rd last year before having a modest season on offense. On specials, Mr. Felton was a monster out at gunner, proving to be too much to handle for the great majority of blockers.
Still, McShay sees some wisdom in the Boston move.
Last year, Boston tossed up 62 receptions for 881 yards and 11 touchdowns. The 14.2 yards-per-reception average is promising. Not elite or unheard of, but good bang for his buck. Any team that brings him aboard would likely lean on his length and wheels for similarly meaty catches.
Boston comes in at 31st on the PFF board, meaning he’s viewed as a fringe 1st-Round talent. Maybe he goes earlier than anticipated, such as No. 18 to the Vikings. Much more likely, though, is that the Vikings opt for someone different in that spot.
The possibility exists that someone gets scooped up on offense, but the vast majority are leaning toward defense. Help within the secondary makes sense. There are needs along the d-line and linebacker.
Seeing Boston drop down to No. 49 (doesn’t appear likely) could realistically lead to Minnesota choosing the 6’4″ receiver who comes in at close to 210 pounds. He is 22.
The 2026 NFL Draft begins on Thursday, April 23rd and lasts through to Saturday, April 25th. The Vikings are sitting atop nine draft picks for the three-day event.
