Stock down: CB Mackensie Alexander
Mackensie Alexander, similar to the Vikings other high draft pick Laquon Treadwell, had an up-and-down preseason. While he has shown an ability to stay in a receivers hip pocket, tackle well, and make a play on the ball, Mack has a long way to go before he is considered ready for a prominent role in the Vikings’ defensive backfield.
Alexander, like Trae Waynes last year, was given heaps of information before being thrust into game action to sink or swim. Mack has seemingly done a better job than Waynes did, but it’s clear both players need a year or two in the NFL before they are starting caliber.
The good news for the Vikings is their corner back depth is better than it has been for a long time. Terence Newman will hold down one spot, Xavier Rhodes will be locking down the other, and Captain Munnerlyn will enter when the defense goes into the nickel formation, leaving the Vikings with the luxury of letting both Waynes and Alexander sit and learn.
There is no doubt in my mind Alexander will be a phenomenal corner back in the NFL. But it might take a little more time than we anticipated.
Next: Stock up for a safety from Clemson