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6 Free Agents the Vikings Could Add after the Draft
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- 6 Free Agents the Vikings Could Add after the Draft
Allen Eyestone via Imagn Content Services, LLC
Are free agents the hot topic for the Minnesota Vikings right now? No — that designation rightfully belongs to the NFL Draft , which gets cracking in about a week and a half. Still, after that event, teams re-pivot to free agency, and here's who Minnesota could target, depending on its draft haul.
Minnesota may not be done adding help yet.
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The players are ranked in ascending order (No. 1 = who the Vikings should prioritize foremost).
Veteran Options Who Could Still Patch the Vikings' Roster
Free agency still matters for the 2026 Vikings, believe it or not.
Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (10) celebrates after a key reception during fourth-quarter action against the Chicago Bears at M&T Bank Stadium, Oct 26, 2025, as the veteran playmaker reacts to a clutch moment late in the game. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
6. DeAndre Hopkins (WR)
In 2025, Hopkins was targeted only 39 times by the Baltimore Ravens , fewer than the 53 targets Jalen Nailor received as the Vikings' WR3. While Hopkins performed at a WR3 level the previous year in his combined time with Kansas City and Tennessee , a reunion with Kyler Murray in 2026 could revitalize his role in an offense.
Hopkins also stated last month that he'd love to join Murray in Minnesota. It's as simple as this: the Vikings may need a WR3 if the draft doesn't fetch one, and Hopkins wants to be here.
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5. D.J. Reader (DT)
Reader will be 32 this summer. A classic nose tackle, he was drafted in the fifth round in 2016 and spent his first four seasons with Houston . In 137 games (128 starts), he has recorded 328 tackles, 27 tackles for loss, and 12.5 sacks.
Despite Reader's solid career numbers, defensive tackle remains a popular position for the Vikings to address in mock drafts, along with cornerback and safety. Given the Vikings' long-standing need at nose tackle, Reader could provide an immediate impact, even if only as a short-term solution. His 6'3″, 330-pound frame fits the physical profile for the position.
4. Tyreek Hill (WR)
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Hill's 2025 season was cut short after four games due to a severe left knee injury involving multiple torn ligaments, including the ACL. Prior to the injury, he averaged 66.3 yards per game, projecting to over 1,100 yards for the season. Even if he has lost some speed, he still possesses explosive burst and playmaking ability.
His career stats — 11,363 yards and 83 touchdowns — confirm his status as one of the league's most dangerous deep threats, capable of changing a game with the snap of two fingers.
The contract situation could also be favorable, making a "prove-it" deal a viable option for teams with championship aspirations. The prospect of Hill playing alongside Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison in Minnesota would create a formidable challenge for opposing defenses.
Adding to the potential fit, Hill has expressed his childhood fandom for the Vikings. And — Frank Smith , Hill's former coach in Miami , is now the Vikings' assistant head coach, providing a strong connection that could facilitate a trade.
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This one might boil down the Hill's recovery trajectory. If he plays again, the Vikings make sense as a destination.
3. Trevon Diggs (CB)
Diggs recorded 11 interceptions in his standout 2021 season. While replicating that feat will be difficult, the Vikings, who struggled with turnover differential in 2026, need cornerbacks who can generate takeaways .
Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs (7) kneels on the field before kickoff against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium, Oct 12, 2025, as players prepare during pregame moments ahead of the NFC matchup. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images
Diggs' next contract is unlikely to be a record-breaker. Having already secured a significant deal in Dallas, he now needs to re-establish his value. Turning 28 this fall, Diggs brings two Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro nod to the table. With coverage remaining his strength, he presents a viable option if the Vikings prioritize that skill set after the draft.
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2. Deebo Samuel (WR)
Given Kyler Murray's offensive tendencies , which haven't recently emphasized deep passing, a player like DeeboSamuel, known for his effectiveness with the ball in his hands, especially near the line of scrimmage, would be a logical fit. San Francisco even utilized him as a running back at times.
At 30 years old, Samuel is likely seeking a team with championship potential, a level the Vikings are approaching with Murray at quarterback, at least in theory.
Despite inconsistent quarterback play in Washington last season, Samuel still managed 727 receiving yards. A change of scenery to Minnesota could be the catalyst he craves.
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1. Christian Wilkins (DT)
When Brian Flores became the head coach in Miami in 2019, he drafted Wilkins as his first pick, indicating his belief in Wilkins' potential and his commitment to developing him into a key defensive lineman.
Denver, Colorado, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Christian Wilkins (94) celebrates after recording a sack during second-quarter action against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High, Oct 6, 2024, as the defensive front makes its presence felt early. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
This history is significant because Flores understands Wilkins' capabilities, how to utilize them effectively, and how he fits into a defensive scheme. Too, Wilkins played alongside Andrew Van Ginkel in Miami, another player Flores trusts and who is now with the Vikings. This familiarity would likely ease Wilkins' integration into the locker room.
For Vikings interim general manager Rob Brzezinski, Flores' presence simplifies the evaluation process. Wilkins' on-field fit is also evident, as he excels as a run defender, an area where Minnesota needs immediate improvement after Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave left in March.
Wilkins to Minnesota really, really makes sense.
