Purple Insider - a Minnesota Vikings and NFL podcast Why is everyone mocking Dillon Thieneman to the Vikings?(Part 2)
Mar 27, 2026
Matthew Coller digs into why mock drafts keep linking Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman to Minnesota and questions the consensus. He debates whether Thieneman merits a top-20 pick versus being a solid-but-not-elite safety. Coller explains how influential evaluators shape draft narratives and lays out draft strategy, trade scenarios, and positional value decisions around tackle, edge, and safety.
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Safety Transitions Faster Than Linemen Or Edge
- Safety is one of the quickest positions to transition from college to the NFL.
- Coller references studies showing safeties and running backs historically adjust faster than positions like guard or edge rushers.
Trade Quarterbacks Only For Clear Value
- Consider trading a quarterback only if the return justifies uncertainty about their future role.
- Coller says trade decisions for JJ McCarthy should depend entirely on the offer and injury/history risk versus potential upside.
Create A President Role Over The GM
- Structure the front office with a long-term trusted executive above the GM to protect the roster plan.
- Coller recommends Rob Brzezinski as president of football operations so the GM answers to him and the coach answers to the GM.