Vikings Ripped for ‘Big Time Reach’ in Round 1 of NFL Draft
Summary
The Minnesota Vikings selected defensive tackle Caleb Banks from Florida with the 18th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. This choice surprised many experts because the team had other pressing needs and top players available.Key Facts
- The Vikings picked Caleb Banks, a defensive tackle, 18th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
- Many expected Minnesota to choose a safety, a more urgent team need.
- Safety prospects like Dillon Thieneman and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren were still available.
- Pass-rushing players such as Akheem Mesidor and Keldric Faulk were also options.
- ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper ranked Banks 62nd, calling the Vikings’ pick a "big-time reach."
- Banks is 6-foot-6 and 327 pounds but recently had foot surgery, raising health concerns.
- Other defensive tackles rated higher than Banks were still available, including Kayden McDonald and Peter Woods.
- The pick was unexpected given the team’s uncertain future with veteran safety Harrison Smith.
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