​Minnesota Vikings rookies have a chance to make an impact this season. How they perform in training camp could help elevate several rookies into significant roles when the season begins, something that has eluded a majority of Vikings rookies over the past several years.The Vikings had nine draft picks in 2026, but there are also some undrafted free agents who could make some noise not only to make the roster, but to contribute in a meaningful role on Sundays.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementBelow are three rookies in particular to watch. These aren’t necessarily the three “best” players to watch. It’s a combination of skill set and depth at their position, which could thrust some players into the starting role sooner than others.It’s easy to list the first-round pick here to begin, but Banks’ foot injury led many to believe he would fall out of the first round entirely. The Vikings have been adamant that their medical staff is confident Banks will be healthy once camp begins, but it’s still hard not to be concerned about a lower-body injury on a 6-foot-6, 330-pound player.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementIf healthy, Banks projects as a Day 1 starter. If fully engaged and able to live up to his potential, Banks could be a game-wrecker in the future. However, potential will only mean so much if he is participating in camp. If Banks isn’t practicing, there will be concerns regarding his short- and long-term health, as well as questions as to why Minnesota used the 18th pick on him.Harrison Smith’s future remains in question, though his silence on retirement suggests he’ll return for his 15th season. That, along with questions surrounding returning veterans, could pave the way for Jakobe Thomas, the 98th overall pick out of Miami (FL), to reach the starting lineup.Thomas has a versatile skill set that could fit into Brian Flores’ scheme. Josh Metellus had a down year in 2025, battling injuries along the way. But he could return to a hybrid linebacker-safety role after playing deep safety more last year. Theo Jackson lost his starting job late in the season, getting replaced by Jay Ward.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementIt may be a challenge to get comfortable in Flores’ defense, but if Thomas can prove capable, he could be one of the team’s starting safeties when the season begins.Aaron Jones will turn 32 in December and has always battled injuries. Jordan Mason has never been a full-time starter. That means sixth-round pick Demond Claiborne, the speedy running back out of Wake Forest, could earn a substantial role as RB3.Claiborne averaged 5.1 yards per carry in 2025 and scored 10 rushing touchdowns. He also projects as a potential kick return option, taking two kickoffs for touchdowns during his college career. Claiborne could flash in camp and then progressively work his way into the lineup due to Jones and Mason’s injury histories.This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 3 Rookies to watch during Vikings’ training camp