Former Stephen F. Austin All-American cornerback Charles Demmings was selected by the Minnesota Vikings with the 163rd overall pick in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. The Mesquite, Texas native becomes the seventh Lumberjack drafted since 2000 and was a standout contributor on a top-tier SFA defense, earning all-conference and all-American honors. Demmings led FCS in pass breakups with a total of 35 during his college career, including three interceptions in his senior season. He is the first defensive back from SFA to be drafted since 1995.

By the Numbers
  • Selected 23rd pick of the fifth round, 163rd overall.
  • Finished career with 35 pass breakups, the most in SFA history.
  • Had an average of 1.00 passes defended in Southland Conference games.
State of Play
  • Demmings becomes the second Lumberjack ever drafted by the Vikings.
  • Vikings rookie minicamp is scheduled for early May, with organized team activities to follow.
What's Next

Demmings will participate in the Vikings' rookie minicamp and aims to secure a starting position in the upcoming NFL season. His performance during organized team activities will be critical in determining his role on the team.

Bottom Line

The selection of Charles Demmings highlights the talent emerging from Stephen F. Austin and solidifies his potential impact on the Vikings' defense, presenting a significant opportunity for him to showcase his skills at the professional level.