Vikings met ‘extensively’ with Nebraska TE during pro day

Thomas Fidone led the Cornhuskers with four receiving touchdowns in 2023.

According to NFL insider Tony Pauline, the Vikings met “extensively” with former Nebraska tight end Thomas Fidone during the program’s pro day on Monday. Per Pauline, the Vikings were well-represented in Lincoln as they sent both their tight ends and linebackers coaches.

Fidone is a two-year starter for Nebraska from 2023-2024 after struggling with injuries during his first two seasons, including a preseason knee injury that forced a redshirt in 2021. In his first after earning the starting job, the Council Bluffs, Iowa native hauled in a team-high four receiving touchdowns to go with 25 catches and 260 receiving yards while starting 8-of-12 games. This past season, he started nine contests while playing in all 13 for the Cornhuskers. He ended his final collegiate season with career highs in both receptions (36) and receiving yards (373).

During his time in Indianapolis for the NFL Combine, Fidone ran an official 4.70 in the 40-yard dash. He impressed with 35” in the vertical jump and a 10’9” in the broad to go with strong agility numbers. Fidone posted a 7.01 in the three-cone and a 4.29 in the short shuttle, both of which were top three at his position in Indy.

At his pro day, Fidone looked very smooth while running routes. Per those in attendance, he was explosive in and out of his breaks, showing strong, sure hands in the process.

The Vikings obiously have T.J. Hockenson as their starter, but could be looking to add a developmental tight to help reinforce depth behind both Hock and current TE2 Josh Oliver. Coincidentally, Oliver is Fidone’s pro comparison per NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein.