Dillon Thieneman — 2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 1.0

As a transfer from Purdue, Thieneman had back-to-back seasons with 100-plus tackles to go along with six interceptions as a freshman (2023). His new coaching staff at Oregon is singing his praises as well. "His attention to detail, his work ethic, is unlike anyone I've ever coached," co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach Chris Hampton said. "The guy's relentless in his pursuit for greatness. He's trying to get better each and every day. I mean, he's all about growth, every rep, every day, every meeting, like he's a pro ... the intangibles about this guy was really tremendous."

Thieneman's instincts can not be taught or replicated. The Purdue transfer had six interceptions and two forced fumbles as a true freshman. He should be targeting that level of production for the Ducks and opportunity will be available considering the players who left that secondary unit since the season ended.

Bryan Cook and Mike Edwards are free agents after the 2025 season, which leaves Kansas City's long-term safety outlook unclear. Thieneman is rugged and plays with urgency. In run support, he fires up the alley with aggression and seeks out contact. He also makes the most of his opportunities around the ball, recording six interceptions and two forced fumbles in 2023 at Purdue. Now at Oregon, he's expected to be a firm final line of defense for the Ducks.

The retooling of the Bengals defense figures to be a multiyear process and Thieneman could be a nice asset to add to a secondary that gave up too many big plays. His speed sets him apart, but he has a chance to really thrive with the move to Oregon.

When you have to slow the likes of Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson, it never hurts to have a robust group of defensive backs capable of deterring deep shots. Thieneman intercepted six passes as a freshman at Purdue, and his transfer to Oregon might further highlight how much he could aid a defense that doesn't offer much excitement with its current safety tandem of Taylor Rapp and Damar Hamlin.