The Minnesota Vikings concluded the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft with two picks that highlight their strategic focus on building depth and versatility. On April 25, 2026, the team selected Michigan fullback Max Bredeson with the 159th overall pick and Stephen F. Austin offensive tackle Charles Demmings four picks later at 163rd overall. Though these selections may not immediately grab national headlines, they underscore the Vikings' commitment to shaping their roster around the schemes and philosophies of head coach Kevin O'Connell and general manager Rob Brzezinski.
Max Bredeson -- Fullback with a Modern Edge
Selecting Max Bredeson in the fifth round signals the Vikings' ongoing appreciation for a fullback's value in today's NFL. Despite many teams deemphasizing the position, Minnesota has kept it integrated into their offensive identity. Bredeson, a national champion with Michigan, impressed with his powerful blocking and reliable hands out of the backfield.
Bredeson's primary role in college centered on creating running lanes and pass protection, but he also demonstrated the versatility to contribute as a receiving threat. This adaptable skill set fits perfectly within the Vikings' zone running and play-action-heavy offense. Under O'Connell, employing a fullback is not just about brute force; it involves motion, tactical blocking, and occasional passing role to keep defenses guessing.
The presence of a capable fullback like Bredeson adds valuable options for Minnesota's offensive coordinator Wes Phillips. Whether it's deploying a heavy personnel package on short-yardage situations or running misdirection plays, Bredeson's skill set enhances flexibility. Moreover, his leadership credentials, having served as a team captain at Michigan, complement his on-field capabilities and reflect the Vikings' preference for bringing in character players who contribute to team culture.
Though the Vikings currently have a fullback on the roster, Bredeson will compete vigorously in training camp for snaps. Early playing opportunities could come in specialized packages or on special teams, with a longer-term chance to assert himself as a key component in Minnesota's offense.
Charles Demmings -- A High-Upside Offensive Tackle from Stephen F. Austin
With the 163rd overall pick, the Vikings invested in Charles Demmings, an offensive tackle from Stephen F. Austin. This selection represents a classic late-round developmental prospect with intriguing physical attributes: at 6-foot-5 and over 300 pounds, Demmings possesses the prototypical stature for a tackle in an NFL zone-blocking scheme.
Playing at the FCS level, Demmings dominated on tape with strong run-blocking ability and solid pass protection fundamentals. As often is the case with small-school prospects, the biggest question surrounds the transition to the faster, more athletic NFL environment. Assessments at post-season all-star games and pro day workouts highlighted his fluid footwork and sound hand placement, indicators he could adapt effectively.
For the Vikings, Demmings is a strategic pick aimed at fortifying offensive line depth. The current starting lineup is stable but the team seeks cost-effective, high-upside players to develop behind their veterans. Demmings' versatility to play either left or right tackle adds important roster flexibility.
Though unlikely to start immediately, Demmings will be integrated gradually, benefiting from the Vikings' experienced offensive line coaching staff. He is expected to contribute early on as a reliable backup and special teams member, with an opportunity to grow into a starting role down the line.
Strategic Implications of Day 3 Selections
The choices of Bredeson and Demmings reflect Minnesota's draft philosophy on Day 3: targeting players who can fill specific roles and provide value, whether immediately or in time. Both players offer positional benefits that align with the Vikings' roster-building priorities.
Offensive tackles remain a premium commodity league-wide, making Demmings' selection a potentially shrewd investment. Similarly, a multi-faceted fullback like Bredeson is valuable not just in conventional roles but also as an offensive weapon and locker room leader. Minnesota's staff, including GM Rob Brzezinski and coaches Kevin O'Connell and Wes Phillips, clearly focused on adding pragmatic, competitive pieces with developmental upside.
Having entered the draft without a fourth-round pick, maximizing fifth-round selections was critical to maintain team depth and sustain competition. Early analyses indicate that both picks have been viewed as reasonable values, setting a positive tone for the rest of Minnesota's 2026 rookie class.
Outlook for Bredeson and Demmings with the Vikings
Max Bredeson's rookie season path centers on mastering the Vikings playbook, showcasing his physicality, and proving capable in multiple offensive scenarios. Special teams contributions will be key to securing a roster spot. His leadership experience and character will also endear him to coaches and teammates as he makes the transition to pro football.
Charles Demmings faces a more gradual progression. He will likely focus on adding muscle and honing technique during his first year. The Vikings' coaching staff will aim to develop his skills to prepare him as a dependable swing tackle. Demonstrating adaptability in practices and preseason could accelerate his role as a valuable backup and eventual starter.
Together, these picks exemplify the deeper building blocks that franchises rely on beyond headline draft picks. The Vikings already have established stars in place; now the focus is on nurturing role players who contribute to sustained competitiveness. Charles Demmings and Max Bredeson epitomize this approach as fifth-round selections poised to impact Minnesota's roster in the near future.
The 2026 NFL Draft remains underway, but the Vikings have reason to be optimistic about their acquisition of these young talents on Day 3.
