Vikings Target Wisconsin Pass Rusher in Late-Round Draft Strategy

The Minnesota Vikings are casting a wide net as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, with Wisconsin outside linebacker Mason Reiger emerging as a compelling late-round target for the franchise.

With nine selections at their disposal, the Vikings have scheduled a Top 30 visit with the 6-foot-5, 250-pound pass rusher who made headlines after his dominant performance at the Shrine Bowl. Reiger recorded three sacks and a forced fumble in that showcase, earning Defensive MVP honors and catching the attention of NFL scouts across the league.

The Wisconsin product represents exactly the type of developmental talent Minnesota hopes to uncover in the draft"s later rounds. After several disappointing drafts over the past four seasons, the organization is focused on finding diamonds in the rough who can contribute immediately on special packages while growing into larger roles.

Reiger"s path to the NFL has been anything but conventional. The former walk-on has steadily improved his draft stock through consistent performance and remarkable athletic testing. His speed metrics are exceptional for an outside linebacker, while his length and spin move technique have drawn praise from evaluators.

Over his final two collegiate seasons split between Wisconsin and Louisville, Reiger accumulated 10 sacks and 45 quarterback pressures. Draft analysts note his ability to collapse the pocket quickly when operating as a designated pass rusher, particularly effective working from a two-point stance on obvious passing downs.

"The pass rush ability is real," according to NFL Draft Buzz scouting reports. "His first step and closing burst are uncommon, and the inside spin move is already a weapon."

The Vikings" interest makes strategic sense given their current edge rusher depth chart. While veterans Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel anchor the position, both players are 28 or older. Adding a young, developmental prospect like Reiger would provide insurance and potential upside for the future.

Minnesota"s defensive coordinator Brian Flores has shown an affinity for versatile pass rushers who can create pressure from multiple alignments. Reiger"s skill set appears tailor-made for Flores" aggressive defensive schemes, where situational pass rushers can make immediate impacts.

Currently projected around pick 219 on consensus draft boards, Reiger falls perfectly within Minnesota"s draft capital sweet spot. The Vikings possess three seventh-round selections, positioning them well to select the Wisconsin product without sacrificing valuable early-round picks.

While Reiger may not profile as an immediate three-down starter, his development trajectory suggests significant upside. The 23-year-old has shown consistent improvement year over year, progressing from a mid-level prospect to an elite pass rushing threat.

Scouts compare his game to former NFL edge rusher Kyler Fackrell, noting Reiger"s ability to create quick wins despite lacking ideal size for traditional edge setting. His technique and motor have impressed evaluators who believe his ceiling remains untapped.

Interestingly, if selected, Reiger would become the first University of Wisconsin player drafted by Minnesota in over two decades. The geographical proximity and familiarity with Big Ten competition could ease his transition to professional football.

With the draft just 15 days away, the Vikings appear committed to adding depth and youth to their pass rush rotation. Reiger represents the type of calculated gamble that could pay significant dividends if his upward trajectory continues at the professional level.