Minnesota Vikings Position Profile: Defensive Backs

The Vikings are heading into mini-camp with a little swagger and a lot of optimism on the defensive side of the ball after showing huge improvement in 2014. The team has great talent at the DB position with recent first round picks like Xavier Rhodes, Harrison Smith, and the 11th pick in this years draft, Trae Waynes. They have also added proven veteran Terence Newman who should provide great leadership to the young group.

May 27, 2015; Eden Prairie, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings cornerback Trae Waynes (26) runs before drills at Winter Park. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

Coach Zimmer has a good problem to have, and that problem is that when you throw in names like Josh Robinson, Captain Munnerlyn, and Marcus Sherels in with the players mentioned above it is likely we will see the team have to waive at least one CB when training camp gets under way. Another question mark for the defensive backfield is who will start opposite of Smith at the SS position? Robert Blanton saw most of the snaps with the first team in OTA’s, but has looked a little shaky so far, getting burned and being out of position a few times. Last years sixth round pick, Antone Exum, is taking major strides and should have a chance to compete for the starting role.

Dec 21, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Minnesota Vikings free safety Harrison Smith (22) prior to the game against the Miami Dolphins at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports

When you look at the Vikings secondary, they have a great combination of youth, speed, size, and talent. If the front seven is able to get after opposing QB’s like i think they will the DB’s will have great opportunities to make plays on the ball. In my humble opinion,this group has a good chance to be the strongest at their position in the NFL

Jordan Nadel

@disko37