Minnesota Vikings get an ACC defender in latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft

The Minnesota Vikings had one of the best defenses in the league last season. They ranked third in yards allowed and seventh in points given up.

But that doesn't mean there aren't holes in the unit. Byron Murphy, Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers were the only two cornerbacks to play over 200 snaps. Part of that was due to Brian Flores deploying lots of base defense, but the Vikings entered the season thin at the position. It was even worse when Jeff Okudah was lost for the season after Week 7.

That has many mock drafts projecting Minnesota to take a cornerback. In his post- Super Bowl mock, Max Chadwick of PFF had the Vikings select Clemson cornerback Avieon Terrell at pick 18.

The Vikings have finished outside the top 15 of team PFF coverage grade in each of the past six seasons and need plenty of help in their secondary. Terrell's 90.6 PFF overall grade over the past two seasons ranked fifth among all Power Four cornerbacks.

If you've looked at any mocks, you've likely seen Terrell's name slated for the Vikings. He has been Minnesota's selection in 40% of the site's mock draft simulations.

What's also important is that the selection aligns with his values, too. Terrell is ranked 19th on PFF's Big Board, meaning the Vikings wouldn't be reaching to address one of their biggest needs.

So keep an eye on Terrell as he continues to be a popular pick for Minnesota in early mock drafts.

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: Vikings get an ACC defender in latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft