Dec 15, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers cornerback Captain Munnerlyn (41) reacts after returning an interception for a touchdown in the fourth quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
The Vikings made a huge splash on the third day of free agency. This time, it came in the secondary with one of the best cornerbacks available.
Although Captain Munnerylyn isn’t really a household name, he should be familiar to hardcore football fans. His fire and rough-nosed play have made him the focus of several SportsCenter highlights (including one incident with former Vikings WR Percy Harvin) and fines.
Nov 10, 2013; San Francisco, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers cornerback Captain Munnerlyn (41) is unable to control the ball on an incomplete pass intended for San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Anquan Boldin (81) during the first quarter at Candlestick Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Munnerlyn reportedly inked a three year deal with the Minnesota Vikings. It is said to be a 3 year deal worth $14.25 million with $7 million guaranteed. This is a small price to pay for last year’s #11 cornerback according to Pro Football Focus.
He will most likely be a nickel/slot cornerback. This will allow Josh Robinson to move back to the outside where he played better two seasons ago than he did in the slot role last year.
“Captain Crunch” (as I like to call him) is only 5’8″ and 195 pounds. However, he plays much bigger than that size and has been known to be able to shut down receivers that are much bigger and stronger. He will be a huge asset to a Vikings secondary that struggled heavily last year.