**Rang projects at No. 18: CJ Allen, LB, Georgia**
_The second level of the Vikings defense is missing a true alpha with the speed, physicality and instincts to star as an every-down linebacker. Allen would be a great fit in Flores' system._
**Alec Lewis projects at No. 18: Peter Woods, DT, Clemson**
_The Vikings have enough positional needs to approach this pick from a best-available perspective. Woods is a fascinating prospect. Dane Brugler ranked him as the No. 1 draftable prospect entering the 2025 season. The interior defender had been dominant the previous two seasons. Then, in 2025, his production dipped. Woods recorded only three sacks and 2.5 tackles for loss. Clemson's defense struggled in its entirety. Questions persist regarding his overall length, but the athleticism is undeniable. Woods moves laterally like a much smaller player than one who is 6-3, 310 pounds. His hands are violent. Plug him into the Vikings defensive system alongside Jalen Redmond, and it's difficult not to envision serious havoc._
**Dalton Wasserman of** [Pro Football Focus](https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2026-nfl-mock-draft-three-round-cowboys-caleb-downs-cj-allen-browns-carnell-tate)
**Wasserman projects at No. 18: Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson**
_Minnesota could use another playmaker in its cornerback room. Terrell could provide just that after tallying three interceptions, eight forced fumbles and 17 pass breakups during three seasons at Clemson._
**Yates projects at No. 18: Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina**
_Cisse is one of the most unique prospects in this class, as he's a cornerback with uncommon strength and athletic ability; if he tests at the combine, get ready for a show. While a perimeter corner at his core, Cisse took occasional slot snaps at South Carolina. He was a force against the run from either alignment and can plaster perimeter wideouts in man coverage, staying physical and matching them stride-for-stride. Cornerback is a need for Minnesota, as Isaiah Rodgers is entering the final year of his deal. Plus, Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores has the ingenuity to deploy Cisse in many ways._