The 2026 NFL draft is just days away, and here I will discuss the Vikings draft options for another position that should be high on the Vikings agenda. Previously, I looked at safety, defensive tackle, and cornerback.

The Vikings are blessed with arguably the best WR in the game in Justin Jefferson and an excellent WR2 in Jordan Addison. However, this offseason, Kevin O’Connell is looking for a new WR3 after the departure of Jalen Nailor.

Breaking Down the Vikings’ Wide Receiver Draft Paths across All Rounds

With Jefferson, Addison, and TJ Hockenson at TE taking up a lot of opposing defenses’ concentration. The Vikings WR3 provides a great opportunity for someone; it could be last year’s third-round pick, Tai Felton — either way, the Vikings need to find another WR to add to the ranks.

The First Rounders

Carnell Tate is the top-rated WR in this year’s draft and will be out of the Vikings’ reach, but any other WR could be possible. Drafting a WR3 in the first round might seem like a luxury, but in a draft that lacks elite players, especially in the positions the Vikings have needs, I wouldn’t hate it. If either Makai Lemon or Jordyn Tyson is on the board at 18, I would be very tempted to pull the trigger.

Tyson has two-tier explosiveness that can be a game-changer. He needs to refine his technique, and his extensive injury history might keep him from being the guaranteed top-10 pick (at least) his talent deserves. If that puts him in the Vikings’ sights, I believe he is worth the gamble.

Lemon lacks the ideal size and athleticism to be a sure thing on the outside, but with high football IQ, elite body control, and competitive toughness, he can be a quality addition from the slot, adding value as a returner.

Vikings Draft Options at WR on Day 2

There are a lot of potentially good Vikings draft options at WR on Day 2. Someone like KC Concepcion, Denzel Boston, or Omar Cooper Jr. could slip to the second round, but the Vikings would have to trade up to get any of them. Chris Bell offers an impressive blend of size and explosiveness. He can generate separation on deep routes and create yards after the catch on shorter touches – perfect for how the Vikings use their WR3.

Germie Bernard has developed into a solid, high-floor receiver with good nuance and football IQ, making him a good depth option.

Chris Brazzell III is a boom-or-bust vertical receiver with the ability to win downfield. If a team bets on his skill set and he hits, he has the potential to become an impact player. There are a couple of slot receiver options in Skyler Bell and Antonio Williams. Bell looked uncoverable at times in college despite his below-average size and athleticism, which could reduce his effectiveness in the slot in the NFL.

Williams is a quick, precise receiver with strong separation metrics, but he never saw much use on deep targets. His special teams experience is also intriguing and could be a good option if the Vikings have confidence in Felton and are just looking for a WR4.

Elijah Sarratt is a below-average athlete, but there is plenty to like in his game. His strong hands, coordination, and determination at the catch point — combined with his constant competitiveness — would make him a good addition to the Vikings, who offer a good jump-ball option.

Finally on Day 2 we have Zachariah Branch, an option I like due to his rare, difference-making athleticism. He relies heavily on speed and needs to develop the rest of his game, but the Vikings should be able to make use of him early in his career.

The Remaining Options On Day 3

Bryce Lance is a big, versatile “X” receiver. He moves well for his size and pairs that with reliable contested-catch production. He could be taken in the late Day 2, early Day 3 region.

Malachi Fields is an option as a big, physical receiver. At 6’4 and 222 lbs, he is a big dude, as is Jakobi Lane, who is a similar-style player but without the same bulk.

My favorite Vikings draft option on Day 3 is De’Zhaun Stribling. He has natural hands and a physical playstyle that shows up as a blocker, after the catch, and at the catch point.

Stribling can add a different dimension to the Vikings’ offense with sufficient long speed to remain a vertical threat from any alignment. Interest is there from Minnesota, which hosted Stribling for a pre-draft visit earlier this month.