MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Minnesota Vikings Select DT Caleb Banks with No. 18 Pick in 2026 NFL Draft

(PITTSBURGH, Pa.) (April 24, 2026) The Minnesota Vikings selected University of Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks with the 18th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday night.

The selection marked the team’s only first-round pick and came as part of a draft class in which Minnesota holds nine total selections across three days.

Draft Outcome

Pre-draft projections from league analysts had frequently linked the Vikings to Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman at No. 18. The team instead addressed the interior defensive line. Thieneman was subsequently selected 25th overall by the Chicago Bears.

Player Overview

Banks is listed at 6 feet 6 inches and approximately 327 pounds and is viewed as a defensive line prospect with size and power suited for interior play. He missed time during the previous season due to a foot injury.

Team officials indicated that medical evaluations were part of the pre-draft assessment process and expressed confidence in his long-term availability.

Roster Context

The selection addresses depth and long-term development along the defensive interior following offseason changes at the position. Banks is expected to compete within the defensive line rotation under coordinator Brian Flores’ scheme.

Front Office and Preparation

Head coach Kevin O’Connell previously indicated that interim general manager Rob Brzezinski led the draft preparation process, coordinating evaluations and facilitating alignment among scouting, coaching, and personnel staff.

Draft Schedule and Remaining Picks

The first round concluded Thursday night. Rounds two and three are scheduled for Friday, followed by rounds four through seven on Saturday.

Minnesota is scheduled to make additional selections beginning with the second round, where the team holds the 49th overall pick, along with multiple picks on Days 2 and 3.

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