Dec 18, 2011; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings safety Mistral Raymond (41) against the New Orleans Saints at the Metrodome. The Saints defeated the Vikings 42-20. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-US PRESSWIRE
It could’ve been a lot worse for Mistral Raymond. When he dislocated his ankle against San Francisco we thought it was a lot worse. But Raymond got lucky. There was no break and there was no serious damage. He’s rehabbed diligently these last few weeks and gotten gradually back into the swing of things in practice. And on Sunday that work will pay off when Raymond returns to the field for the Vikings.
The Vikings will however take it slow with Raymond, at least at first. Alan Williams says Raymond’s work load will be limited. How much he plays will depend on how he feels. I’m guessing Seattle’s offensive approach will play into it as well. Seattle runs the ball a lot. Jamarca Sanford at this point is probably a better run support safety than Raymond even when Raymond is 100% healthy. If it becomes a grinding run-heavy game, you’d rather have Sanford in there anyway.
So my guess is we won’t be seeing a ton of Mistral Raymond this week. The next game against pass-happy Detroit is where he probably will figure in more. Eventually he’ll reclaim his starting role. Jamarca Sanford has done a decent job but he is probably best as a special teams guy and back-up safety. Raymond is no great shakes yet but he has more potential down the road as a coverage guy. Sanford on the other hand will always be a liability in coverage, which is why he wasn’t the starter to begin the season.
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