Sipu Jha
According to the NFL Operations Manual, teams can release two players before June 1, provided they do that on or after the first day of the new league year [Marck 11]. With this, they can use the designation and receive the same cap treatment.NFL Network’s Craig Peters announced on the day of the new league year that the Minnesota Vikings would release their longtime safety, Harrison Smith, post-June 1. This move spreads cap hit over two seasons. However, it does not decide on the future of Smith: whether the 37-year-old safety would return for his 15th season or retire at once.Anyhow, Minnesota has to move on from him. And so, several analysts have started predicting the perfect Harrison Smith replacement for the Vikings. With some reaching the conclusion that Oregon Ducks safety Dillon Thieneman could be Smith’s successor.
Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman projected for Minnesota as Harrison Smith successor
ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. reports Thieneman is just like Smith when it comes to reading the quarterback and reacting within seconds. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ aggressive, creative defense could perfectly utilize the Ducks safety’s speed [4.35 to 4.40 seconds] and superior ball skills. USA TODAY’s Nate Davis nods in agreement, stating that Smith’s future in doubt leaves the Vikings with Thieneman as a short-term as well as long-term option. The 21-year-old Westfield alum is a standout at the 2026 NFL Combine, and his long, lean build can be used to weaponize all over the gridiron.USA TODAY’s Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz reports Minnesota may pick safety Dillon at overall pick No. 18. The analyst reiterates that he would be a potential successor to Smith and provide flexibility and versatility for Flores’ defense. He is a constantly named as a first-round draft pick because of his sizzling speed and admirable ability to quickly make plays all over the field.However, some analysts suggest that another NFL team may have a greater need for the 6-foot, 201-pounder than the Vikings do.
Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman projected for Seattle Seahawks
Yahoo Sports’ Nate Tice and Charles McDonald released the 2026 NFL Mock Draft’s seventh edition, where they paired Thieneman with the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle is doing its level best to strengthen its receiving corps and defensive line. But there’s one potential offensive guard who can make both of them stronger. Enter: Dillon Thieneman. He would perfectly fit into Mike Macdonald’s two-high safety scheme, which includes limiting big plays and confusing QBs. Which team would sign Thieneman? Sam Darnold’s Seattle Seahawks or J.J. McCarthy’s Minnesota Vikings? Or should we say Kyler Murray’s Vikings? Only time will tell. Now, just a month left…
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