Unlike last year, the Minnesota Vikings will have plenty of options to bring in young talent, as they have far more picks going into the 2026 NFL Draft.
One position of interest for the Vikings is at defensive tackle as they look to rebuild their defensive line after several losses in the offseason. Minnesota had to release veterans Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave to save money against the cap.
Minnesota has a target in mind already in the draft, as Essentially Sports' NFL analyst Tony Pauline reported that the Vikings have a 30-minute visit with Iowa State defensive tackle Dom Orange. As a third-team All-Big 12 selection last year, Orange had 18 tackles and one pass deflection with the Cyclones.
Minnesota Vikings have scheduled a visit with DL prospect Dom Orange
There have been some questions about Orange because he was unable to work out at the NFL Combine. Pauline shared how he did in his most recent workout for NFL teams.
"Orange measured 6-foot-2 and 321 pounds, hit 31.5 inches in the vertical jump, completed 27 reps on the bench, and ran the 40 once, timing 5.15 seconds, though he did pull up after 35 yards due to tightness in his hamstring.
His 10-yard split came in between 1.68 and 1.70 seconds, a terrific mark. His short shuttle time of 4.65 seconds was also impressive."
The top guy on the defensive line at tackle is Jalen Redmond, who has emerged as one of the most underrated in the NFL. Minnesota also has Levi Drake Rodriguez and Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins as potential starters as well for 2026.
There is a chance the Vikings could look on Day 1 or 2 for a defensive tackle. If they are looking for a sleeper pick on Day 3, Orange fits that description.
While Orange won't be a pass rusher in the NFL, his run-stopping skills are solid, and he can cause disruption without the stats showing it. Throw him in the middle of the line on first and second down to stop the run, and he could do well in that role.
The 2026 season will most likely feature a lot of Vikings rookies getting significant playing time, and Orange would be a solid rotational player on the team if Minnesota selects him.