Former Westfield High School safety Dillon Thieneman burst onto the scene as a Purdue freshman in 2023, earning All-America honors after compiling 106 tackles and 6 interceptions.
After a rough 2024 season, Thieneman transferred to national contender Oregon and is expected to return to All-America form. Will he be selected in the 2026 NFL Draft?
When will Dillon Thieneman be picked in the 2026 NFL Draft? Will former Purdue safety Dillon Thieneman be picked in the first round?
AtoZSports: 30th to the Philadelphia Eagles
“There are very few holes on the Eagles’ roster. However, if you want to pick nits, you have to look at safety and see room for improvement. Why not take one of the best on the board to close out round one with Dillon Thieneman?”
Bleacher Report: 13th to the New England Patriots
“Mike Vrabel is doing ‘the Patriot Way’ his way, and he’s making a statement by having Kyle Dugger running with the backups. With Jabrill Peppers’ contract status what it is, the Patriots could feature a very different-looking safety room in 2026.
“Enter Oregon’s Dillon Thieneman. He feels like a bona fide Vrabel-type of player, who will do whatever is asked of him, can defend the run, has the range to play over the top of the defense and the size to contribute in the box. He plays with a ton of effort and is a good culture fit for the Patriots.”
NFLMocks.com: 19th to the Minnesota Vikings
“The Vikings get their safety with the selection of Oregon’s Dillon Thieneman with the No. 19 overall pick in the draft. With a PFF overall grade of 89.4, the Purdue transfer will bring speed and ball skills to the Vikings’ defense in 2026. Behind Downs, Thieneman has the talent to be one of the top safeties and best athletes in the nation.”