Nov 23, 2024; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive end Cameron Brandt (91) rushes on defense at Northwestern Wildcats offensive lineman Caleb Tiernan (72) in the second half t Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
The Minnesota Vikings drafted Northwestern tackle Caleb Tiernan with the 97th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Not many people saw Minnesota taking an offensive lineman in the first two days of the annual event, as their line for the years seems mostly set. It looks like the powers that be in Minnesota are looking ahead and want to get some depth in the offensive line room.
Not only did the Vikings spend a valuable pick on Tiernan, but they also addressed the offensive line by signing former Buffalo Bills tackle Ryan Van Demark. Van Demark is a natural right tackle, and played servicably on limited reps while still playing ball in the AFC North.
Caleb Tiernan played tackle at Northwestern, but he might project to fill another position for the Vikings in the long-term.
Caleb Tiernan Could Be the Vikings’ RG of the Future
Northwestern Wildcats running back Joseph Himon II (6) celebrates with Northwestern Wildcats quarterback Jack Lausch (12) and Northwestern Wildcats offensive lineman Caleb Tiernan (72) after scoring Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, during the NCAA football game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium in West Lafayette, Ind.
Even though Tiernan played tackle for Northwestern (and played it well), he may project better as a guard in the NFL. This is mostly due to his arm length, which is not too desirable for an NFL tackle.
Lance Zierlein once claimed that Tiernan has more of a “guard build”, calling him “dense and strong in the midsection”. Todd McShay also noted that he could play tackle while providing guard depth. McShay also provided an interesting point, noting that Northwestern might have set the “standard” for short-armed tackles kicking into guard with Peter Skoronski.
The Athletic‘s Dane Brugler also has that line of thinking, and mentioned it in an excerpt of his yearly draft masterpiece, “The Beast“.
“[He] relies on refinement to compensate for his average length and redirect skills, using disciplined hands and poise to execute assignments. He’ll have swing tackle ability, although his best [long-term spot] might be guard.“
You may be thinking that we already have a right guard in the building, but I recently shared that Minnesota may want to get out of the Will Fries contract.
Caleb Tiernan Could Be the Will Fries Succession Plan
Dec 7, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) takes the snap against the Washington Commanders during the first half at U.S. Bank Stadium. Guard Will Fries looks for work (76). Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
Yes, Fries has only been in Minnesota for a year. However, the Vikings manufactured an out in the contract after the 2026 season if he doesn’t live up to the money. Fries will need a better 2026 season if he wants a shot at playing out the 5-year/$88 million deal, as he graded out to be an average-at-best guard in 2025.
Tiernan could be the long-term plan if all of the theories about his fit at guard have merit. Minnesota could save a total of $52.5 million over the next three seasons if they release Fries after the 2026 season. This could give them the flexibility to throw in Tiernan on a cheap rookie deal for the next handful of years.
Will Fries will undoubtedly be the Vikings’ starting right guard in 2026. However, he’s going to have to outplay his disappointing first season wearing purple. There’s a real chance that Caleb Tiernan is waiting in the wings to take the job.
Training camp will give us a lot of insight and possibly tip off what the Vikings are planning for Caleb Tiernan, and we’re now around two weeks away from finding out.
Brevan’s writing features a wide-lens, encompassing everything from draft analysis to expert in-game analyses. Readers can expect a passionate … More about Brevan Bane