The Minnesota Vikings surprised many fans by selecting Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks at No. 18 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. The team's decision not to choose a player linked to them more often is interesting, but leaves things open for the rest of the three-day event.
The draft resumed on Friday with the second and third rounds, where the Vikings held three total selections. The first of their picks was at No. 49 overall, and once again, focus shifted to the defensive secondary or an offensive weapon.
Anticipation was high for Minnesota to get this pick right. Interim general manager Rob Brzezinski already has quite a few analysts questioning his decision-making at the draft, and a safer pick might make them feel better.
Minnesota Vikings select Cincinnati LB Jake Golday in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
A trade was made when the Vikings were on the clock. The Vikings traded with the Carolina Panthers, moving down two spots to pick No. 51 to pick up an extra fifth-round selection while giving up their sixth-round pick. After the Panthers and New York Jets made their picks, the purple and gold were on the clock again.
Finally, the purple and gold were back on the clock. This time, the pick is in, and Minnesota right tackle Brian O'Neill took the stage to announce it. The pick was Cincinnati linebacker Jake Golday. Golday stands six-foot-four and weighs 240 pounds. The 22-year-old Tennessee native could be an interesting fit in Brian Flores' defensive scheme.
He played two seasons with Cincinnati, playing 24 games and earning five sacks and a total of 163 combined tackles, with 13 of those going for a loss. He also defended five passes, forced three fumbles, and recovered one fumble. His 2025 season was a significant improvement over 2024, showing he has the potential to continue getting better.
The Vikings' next pick is scheduled for pick No. 82. overall and will be the team's first selection in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Hopefully, the team can continue adding talent to a roster in need of more depth.
To see the full list of players selected by Minnesota in this year's draft and information on each rookie, be sure to check out our draft tracker.
Add us as a preferred source on Google