Latest Minnesota Vikings mock draft intel

Mackey & Judd -- a Minnesota Sports Podcast30mApril 7, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

Mackey and Judd dive into the latest 2026 NFL Draft mock projections, focusing heavily on Peter Schrager’s insider-based mock draft that suggests the Minnesota Vikings will select Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren with the 18th overall pick. The hosts debate the significance of this pick, weighing the need for a long-term safety replacement for Harrison Smith against the positional value of other available players. They explore alternative targets like Dylan Thienemann and Caleb Downs, noting how player rankings have shifted recently. The conversation shifts to the Twins’ $2 beer promotion at Target Field, analyzing its success on opening day and during a frigid night game, with skepticism about its long-term viability. The hosts also discuss the broader sports business implications, including PFF’s advanced analytics tools, team partnerships, and the potential for expanded promotions. The episode closes with a lighthearted look at Joe Ryan’s facial expressions during challenged pitches and a playful jab at the Twins’ social media antics.

Key Takeaways
1

The Vikings may target safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren at #18 in Schrager’s insider-based mock draft, signaling a potential shift toward defensive backfield depth.

2

Safety is emerging as a top priority for the Vikings, even if it means taking a high-value player later in the first round.

3

The Twins’ $2 beer promotion saw 24,000 sold on opening day, but its long-term impact on attendance remains uncertain, especially in poor weather.

4

PFF’s advanced analytics tools, including film-linked data, are critical for NFL teams and may be accessible through exclusive partnerships.

5

Joe Ryan’s intense facial reactions during challenged pitches have become a fan favorite and a running joke on the show.

…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Opening: Twins' Social Media Gambit & Draft Season Kickoff

The hosts open with a critique of the Twins' Monday Night Baseball promo that mimicked Monday Night Football, featuring a panoramic shot of an empty Target Field. They transition into mock draft season and introduce Peter Schrager as a key source of insider intel.

2:29
3 min

Peter Schrager’s 2026 Mock Draft: Inside the Draft Room

Mackey and Judd break down Schrager’s first mock draft, emphasizing that it’s based on real front-office chatter rather than personal picks. They highlight key projections, including the Raiders taking Fernando Mendoza and the Titans selecting Jeremiah Love.

5:00
5 min

Vikings at #18: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren & Safety Focus

If it's not McNeil-Warren, it does seem like safety has moved near the top of the list... I'm starting to buy that safety could be the position depending on who's available.

Highlight
10:00
5 min

Comparing Top Safety Prospects: Thienemann vs. Downs vs. McNeil-Warren

The discussion shifts to alternative safety options, including Dylan Thienemann and Caleb Downs. They note Thienemann’s fall in rankings and Downs’ rise, while reaffirming McNeil-Warren’s growing stock based on Schrager’s intel.

15:00
5 min

Twins’ $2 Beer Promotion: Success or Spectacle?

I don't put much credence in opening day... I need to see this once they get to a game where it's decent outside because I'm curious to see then.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
His face melts down. Like he has a, like he's got that certain smirk where you know he wants to go wring someone's neck.
Mackey28:31
Viral: 85.0
If it's not McNeil-Warren, it does seem like safety has moved near the top of the list... I'm starting to buy that safety could be the position depending on who's available.
Mackey11:57
Viral: 78.0
I don't put much credence in opening day... I need to see this once they get to a game where it's decent outside because I'm curious to see then.
Judd18:11
Viral: 72.0
Speakers

Hosts

MackeyJudd

Guest

Trevor Plouffe
Topics Discussed
2026 NFL Draft95%Minnesota Vikings Draft Strategy90%Safety Position Needs85%Twins $2 Beer Promotion80%PFF Analytics & NFL Front Offices75%Joe Ryan’s Pitching Reactions70%Sports Business & Stadium Promotions65%Fan Engagement & Social Media60%
People & Brands

Minnesota Vikings

other

18xNeutral

Twins

other

15xMixed

Peter Schrager

person

12xPositive

PFF

organization

9xPositive

Target Field

other

8xNeutral

Emmanuel McNeil-Warren

person

7xPositive

Harrison Smith

person

6xNeutral

Joe Ryan

person

6xPositive

North Loop

other

4xNeutral

Trevor Plouffe

person

3xNeutral

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