After not having a selection in the fourth round, the Minnesota Vikings finally got on the clock in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, and with the 159th overall pick, they selected former Michigan tight end Max Bredeson.
When the Vikings made the pick announcement on their X account on Saturday, they listed Bredeson as a fullback, so it looks like he's the guy they want to have replace C.J. Ham, who retired earlier this year.
As a fellow former Wolverine, it didn't take very long for Minnesota quarterback J.J. McCarthy to react to his former teammate joining him in the Twin Cities.
FOX HOLE GUY
— J.J. McCarthy (@jjmccarthy09) April 25, 2026
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Minnesota Vikings send message about offensive focus in 2026 with Max Bredeson selection
During Kevin O'Connell's tenure with the franchise, the Vikings haven't exactly had an offense that relies on its rushing attack. Last season, Minnesota ranked 27th in the entire NFL in rushing attempts per game despite ranking 11th in the league in rushing yards per attempt.
But in the offseason, the Vikings hired Frank Smith to be their new assistant head coach following the retirement of Mike Pettine. Before joining Minnesota, Smith was the Miami Dolphins' offensive coordinator from 2022 to 2025, where he helped that offense have one of the most efficient rushing attacks in the NFL.
With the selection of Bredeson on Saturday, it seems safe to assume that Smith's success with the Dolphins is something that the Vikings are hoping can help transform their rushing attack in 2026.
Of course, it's easier said than done, since O'Connell always seems to fall back on wanting to call more pass plays than run plays if Minnesota isn't running the ball well during a matchup.
But if Smith can help the Vikings find a way to consistently run the ball successfully, then maybe (just maybe) O'Connell will have more of an urge to call more running plays than ever before next season.
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