MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (WHSV) — Former James Madison safety Jacob Thomas secured a spot on the Minnesota Vikings’ 53-man roster for the 2026 season, according to The Athletic’s Alec Lewis.
> Vikings UDFA safety Jacob Thomas has made the 53-man roster, per source. A helluva story, and very well deserving given his performance.
>
> — Alec Lewis (@alec\_lewis) [August 30, 2026](https://x.com/alec_lewis/status/2094120855945007326?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)
Thomas, a two-time All-Sun Belt defensive selection at JMU, signed with the Vikings after going undrafted in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Thomas arrived in Harrisonburg as a walk-on and an unranked recruit before developing into one of the Dukes’ top defensive backs.
The former JMU safety made an impression throughout Minnesota’s preseason, recording seven total tackles and one interception in three appearances.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell praised Thomas’ instincts and communication skills following a preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens.