Why Bell and Williams Might Surprise Vikings Fans This Season
EAGAN, MINNESOTA - MAY 27: Elijah Williams #99 of the Minnesota Vikings participates in a drill during an OTA workout at Twin Cities Orthopedics Performance Center on May 27, 2026 in Eagan, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty ImagesCould Dillon Bell and Elijah Williams be the Minnesota Vikings' next surprise impact players? On this episode of The Real Forno Show, Tyler Forness breaks down two under-the-radar roster players who could reshape the Vikings' depth chart heading into 2026. From a UDFA rookie wideout with a remarkable backstory to a defensive lineman who came from nowhere to earn first-team reps, Forness makes the case that these guys are no afterthought - they could be difference-makers.
Forness praised Bell's versatility from his Georgia days and wildcat experience: You can do gadgety type stuff with Dillon Bell... but I think you can develop into a really nice wide receiver." He highlighted Bell's red-zone physicality and body-shielding ability, comparing his profile to bigger-framed receivers like Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua who improved their route running. The UDFA from a tough Houston background also wants to open a homeless shelter, adding off-field appeal.
On defense, Forness was bullish on sophomore Elijah Williams after reviewing film: I was very impressed... I think he can be a week one starter." He noted Williams' strength against zone blocks, hand usage, and weight gain to around 305-310 pounds, while cautioning that Caleb Banks will eventually take over. Forness framed both as potential diamonds in the rough" similar to past UDFA successes like Jalen Redmond.
Episode Breakdown:- Dillon Bell, UDFA WR (Georgia): Forness calls Bell a physically imposing receiver who thrives on slants, glances, and hitches - and brings wildcat QB experience that opens the door for gadget usage. Bell has a profile that the Vikings could easily utilize. Think of Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua - stout, physically framed, who improved a lot in the route running department." Bell's red zone potential alongside Jauan Jennings could be a genuine unlock for a Kevin O'Connell offense that has historically struggled inside the 10. His story off the field - growing up near Houston's Bissonnet Track and aspiring to open a homeless shelter - adds a remarkable human dimension.
- Elijah Williams, DL (Morgan State Vikings UDFA): A 273-pound FCS product who earned rave reviews from Brian Flores, Williams is now reportedly entering training camp at 305-310 lbs. I think Elijah Williams could easily win that week one starting job," Forness says - his boldest take of the summer. Williams shows strong hand technique and zone-block resistance, and with first-team reps already in hand, the projection is real.
- Brendan Sorsby & the Supplemental Draft: Forness dissects the mechanics, gambling concerns, and roster implications of the Sorsby situation. His conclusion: If you're not willing to give up on McCarthy and trade him... I don't think you should take Sorsby." He'd place a fifth-round bid and walk away from anything more.
- Vikings WR Room & Tai Felton: We've seen nothing from Tai Felton... that shows that he's going to be a guy moving forward that we can trust to be an impact player." The case for Bell to compete for WR4 - and possibly win it - is laid out clearly.
- Draft Retrospective: Forness reframes the Vikings' late-round drafting: Levi Drake Rodriguez, Michael Jurgens, Jay Ward - more hits than the narrative suggests. Context is necessary when it comes to evaluating draft picks."
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Watch:Whether you're tracking the quarterback battle, hunting for breakout candidates, or just want honest, film-backed Vikings analysis, The Real Forno Show delivers it every week. Tyler Forness and Dave Stefano cut through the noise with the kind of depth you won't find on a hot-take reel. This is a must-listen for every serious Vikings fan heading into what could be a pivotal summer in Minnesota.
Fan with Us!!!Tyler Forness @TheRealForno of Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and A to Z Sports @AtoZSportsNFL, with Dave Stefano @Luft_Krigare producing this Vikings 1st & SKOL production, the @RealFornoShow. Podcasts partnered with Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN.
So here's the question for you:What do you think - can Dillon Bell earn a roster spot and make an impact in 2026, or is this getting too far over our skis?