The Minnesota Vikings’ defense has fallen apart, and our latest 2026 NFL mock draft selects two defenders who could help piece it back together. PFSN’s latest projection targets two defenders who bring the right blend of physicality and versatility. Both prospects fit Brian Flores’ vision of an aggressive, disciplined unit capable of reclaiming its dominant form.
Keldric Faulk Brings Size and Strength to a Fading Front
PFSN projects Minnesota to take Auburn pass rusher Keldric Faulk in the first round. At 6-foot-6 and 285 pounds, Faulk has the kind of frame that changes a defensive front. He’s strong at the point of attack and plays with a motor that wears down blockers. His 2024 season at Auburn showed real flashes of dominance, where his power and hand control stood out even when the stats didn’t.
MORE: Keldric Faulk NFL Draft Profile: Week 9 Scouting Report for the Auburn EDGE
Faulk still has work to do as a pass rusher. His first step can be inconsistent, and his pad level needs tightening. But his physical profile is exactly what Minnesota needs up front. The Vikings have allowed over 400 yards in consecutive losses, and Flores’ defense has struggled to create consistent pressure. Adding a player like Faulk would give Minnesota another piece to build around, especially if he can develop as a true three-down presence.
A.J. Haulcy Adds Instincts and Range on the Back End
In Round 2, the mock has Minnesota taking A.J. Haulcy, a 6-foot, 222-pound safety from LSU who thrives in zone coverage. He’s an experienced, high-IQ player with more than 2,000 career defensive snaps across three college programs. His tape shows great anticipation and timing when breaking on passes, and his ball production backs that up with seven interceptions and 18 pass breakups over the last two years.
Haulcy isn’t a burner and can miss tackles in space, but he plays fast because he processes fast. His discipline and communication fit what Flores wants in a safety-heavy scheme. With safeties Josh Metellus and Theo Jackson Jr. already in place, Haulcy could be the kind of complementary piece who keeps the secondary organized and opportunistic. Regardless, safety will be a need for the Vikings. Veteran safety Harrison Smith, who has considered retirement in recent offseasons, turns 37 in February.
READ MORE: A.J. Haulcy NFL Draft Profile: Week 9 Scouting Report for the LSU Safety
The Vikings’ defense has regressed in recent weeks, giving up big plays through the air and struggling to get off the field. All is not lost for this unit as the defense ranks No. 8 in PFSN’s Defense Impact metric. But it needs an injection of youth. Minnesota should invest in defenders who could help reverse that trend and reshape the team’s defense for 2026.
