The Vikings hold nine of the league’s 257 picks after executing multiple trades, a structure Minnesota outlined on its official channels. That draft capital sets up a busy weekend in Pittsburgh and gives the team flexibility to address multiple roster needs.
O’Neill is one of just four active players selected to introduce Day 2 selections for their teams. The other representatives are James Conner, Joey Porter Jr. and Jeffery Simmons. O’Neill, a Pittsburgh product, was a second-round pick by Minnesota in 2018, strengthened by his local ties to the draft site.
The choice to have O’Neill present aligns with the draft’s Pittsburgh location and his college roots, reinforcing Minnesota’s connection to the event as the Vikings navigate their nine picks. The No. 18 overall selection remains the focal point of the weekend as Minnesota evaluates its first-round option.
A late mock projection linked Minnesota to Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq with the No. 18 pick, highlighting a potential off-the-ball addition who could fit in multiple ways in the offense. Sadiq is noted for his speed (a 4.39-second 40-yard dash) and versatility, traits that could help the Vikings with play-making and matchup flexibility.
While tight end isn’t widely cited as Minnesota’s biggest need—safety and defensive tackle are often listed as higher-priority positions—Sadiq’s athletic profile and potential as a multi-level target could give the Vikings considered options if the board advances in that direction. As Minnesota moves through its nine selections, the path to their first pick remains the primary storyline heading into the draft weekend.
