2026 Free Agency and Draft: RB

[MaroonBells]

My first impression of EJ was mixed. Wasn't impressed with his patience at the LOS, which was supposed to be one of his strengths, and I thought he danced too much at the 2nd level looking for the big gain over forward yardage. But the more I watched the more I liked. Right now I have him just under Love and Coleman and above Price. 

[RS_Express]

If we got Emmett Johnson at 97 I'd be happy. Put up 200+ yards vs Iowa.

[NorseFeathers]

I heard the asking price for Achane is a lot.

Sources: Teams that have called the Miami Dolphins to inquire about trading for Pro-Bowl RB De’Von Achane have been told that he is not available.

Frank Smith in the House to Help Fix the Rushing Offense

Down in Miami, Mike McDaniel ran the show for four years, with Frank Smith as his close lieutenant and offensive coordinator. Together, they coordinated an efficient Dolphins rushing offense, sparked by newcomer De’Von Achane in 2023.

Now, in Minnesota (as assistant head coach), the Vikings need the same juice — Smith’s help to identify the best running back from the upcoming rookie class.

https://vikingsterritory.com/2026/news/t...-offseason

De'Von Achane was selected in the third round, pick 84, of the 2023 draft. The Vikings have picks 82 and 97 (Sam Darnold comp pick) in the third round of this year's draft.

[MaroonBells]

[StickierBuns]

Always the plan: a RB for 2026 in the Draft. 100%. And so was bringing back Aaron Jones, who will be an amazing mentor for a rookie RB.

[Knucklehead]

Really wish that we still had our 4th round pick.

[MaroonBells]

Really wish that we still had our 4th round pick.

Me too. But to get a 4th rounder we need only trade down two slots in the 1st round. 18 to 20 would do it.