Minnesota Vikings 2016 regular season superlatives
By Adam Patrick
Most likely to make someone’s head explode
Xavier Rhodes, cornerback
There is no denying that Rhodes has come a long way as a cornerback. At one time, he looked like a young man who struggled to play disciplined defense and was often flagged for penalties, but has turned into a top level talent.
But that doesn’t mean he can’t be frustrating as all heck.
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During the game between Minnesota and the New York Giants in Week 4, Rhodes got into the head of the Giants star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. so badly that he was visibly shaken up and questions of his mental state became a hot debate topic for most NFL analysts.
However, it isn’t just the opponents that get frustrated. Rhodes himself had a minor meltdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars, forcing the team to calm him down on the sidelines.
He would return to the game, but seemed to not be himself after that. The Week 9 game against the Detroit Lions in overtime caused frustration as well, but not to the same level as the Jacksonville game.
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Finally, it might actually be Rick Spielman’s head that explodes when the Vikings have to pay Rhodes like a top NFL cornerback. With his age and resume, he would earn a huge payday if he hits the open market, but the team can’t allow that to happen.
– AC