Even without a general manager calling the shots, the Minnesota Vikings may have found a gem in the 2026 NFL Draft. Rookie minicamp is barely behind us, and third-round safety Jakobe Thomas is already drawing buzz.
In a recent article, ESPN's Field Yates named the players drafted outside of the first round with the best chance to make an immediate impact for their NFL teams. Thomas was one of the first defenders he listed.
"The exact impact Thomas will make on the Vikings' defense is difficult to forecast, but that's a testament to defensive coordinator Brian Flores' creativity.
Thomas has excellent size for a safety (6-foot-2, 200 pounds) and plays with an ultra-physical mentality. His on-ball production last season spoke for itself, as he had five interceptions and 3.5 sacks.
Minnesota is in the process of reshaping its secondary, and Thomas will be a key part of that transition."
Jakobe Thomas draft pick by the Minnesota Vikings looking better by the day
Thomas wasn't seen as a steal by most experts. In fact, many thought he was a significant reach. The former Miami safety was ranked 174th on the consensus big board, expected to go in the fifth round. The GM-less Vikings called their shot, taking him late in the third to address their lingering need at the position.
As Yates mentioned, the rookie has a nose for the football. Miami often cut him loose and let him be a disruptor, against both the pass and the run last season.
When he triggers on the ball, he flies like a heat-seeking missile to put an end to the offense's schemes. He's exactly the kind of player Brian Flores would love to mold into a star.
In Minnesota, Thomas will likely start out as a backup safety. The Vikings already have Josh Metellus and Jay Ward on the roster, and Harrison Smith would play a significant role if he chooses to return. Still, the path to a starting position could be quicker than it looks at the moment.
Thomas spent most of his time in Miami as a free safety, so he could challenge Ward for the starting spot if he impresses his coaching staff this offseason.
Yates made one thing clear: Flores is going to find a way to weaponize the third-round selection. Whether it's as a starter or as a rotational piece, the rookie should see plenty of the field in 2026.
Add us as a preferred source on Google