Minnesota Vikings anticipate contributions from rookies Max Bredeson and Demond Claiborne

The Vikings selected fullback Max Bredeson in the seventh round (159th overall) to replace former captain C.J. Ham. Though listed as a tight end in some reports, the team plans to use him mainly as a lead blocker and occasional receiver, emphasizing his ability to “bury” defenders and master protection duties.

In the sixth round, Minnesota added running back Demond Claiborne from Wake Forest. Claiborne posted a 4.37‑second 40‑yard dash at the NFL Combine and accumulated 2,350 yards and 23 touchdowns in his final two college seasons. Coaches note his speed and versatility could revitalize the Vikings’ ground game, and new assistant head coach Frank Smith’s creative rushing schemes may give him further opportunities.

Both players enter training camp with expectations of making immediate impacts, especially as the Vikings seek to improve a historically underperforming running attack.