Vikings Rookie Report: Week 2 Sees MIN Going into Chicago for a Bears Battle

Recent years have seen the Vikings rookies making too small of a contribution. As a result, Minnesota has become a good team but far from great.

Part of the remedy in 2026 means seeing the young lads contribute more.

Last weekend, the Vikings came from behind to beat the Packers. Doing so was the byproduct of some luck and an all-out aggressive defense. Notably, the young fellas had a role to play but none could be said to have been the star of the show. Perhaps the best so far has been the rookie thumper at fullback.

Vikings Rookie Report | Week 2

Offense

Context and Commentary: Max Bredeson’s impact isn’t going to be found in the basic stats. He’s a mauler who is in town to send defenders into orbit. Expect him to continue shouldering a beefy workload. Meanwhile, Tiernan and Claiborne appear more likely to dress due to injuries along the offensive line and at running back.

UDFA Help: Look for Max Brosmer — a 2025 UDFA add — to get bumped up for the game. As for rookies, the top option could be WR/KR Dillon Bell since he’s a gadget guy who could carry the ball a time or two.

Defense

Context and Commentary: On offense, there’s a singular combatant from Week 1: Max Bredeson. Not so on defense. Four of the five draftees got out there but none were as consequential as Bredeson. Orange stands out due to his critical role in that 4th Down stop on Jordan Love. Look for Golday, in particular, to earn more playing time moving forward. Can Banks bounce back from a rough debut game?

UDFA Help: UDFA safety Jacob Thomas came in tied with Mr. Orange for the second-most combined snaps (defense and specials) among Vikings rookies. Can he leapfrog Theo Jackson to solidify himself as the S3 in his rookie season? He has been wildly impressive.

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