Xavier Rhodes has become one of the most solid pieces for the Minnesota Vikings, and FOX Sports called him the team’s best draft pick in the last 5 years.
Many fans were surprised when the Minnesota Vikings selected cornerback Xavier Rhodes with their first of 3 selections in the 2013 NFL Draft. It was not because he wasn’t deserving of being selected, but the team had other, more pressing needs at the time.
However, general manager Rick Spielman realized how talented Rhodes is and decided to pull the trigger on the Florida defensive back. This policy of getting the most talented players available instead of addressing immediate needs has paid off for the Minnesota front office, but none more so in recent history than with Rhodes.
Recently, FOX Sports published an article discussing the best draft picks for each NFL franchise in the last 5 years, and the team decided to go with Xavier Rhodes in that spot. There was tough competition though, players like Stefon Diggs, Danielle Hunter, Eric Kendricks, Anthony Barr, and Harrison Smith have all been part of the previous 5 years of drafts.
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Here is what FOX Sports had to say about Rhodes:
"“A first-round pick in 2013, Rhodes has turned into one of the absolute best corners in the game today. He has the reputation of being a shut-down guy and matches up with the best wide receiver on the opposing team on a weekly basis.”"
Not only is it the reputation of Rhodes that has him on top of the world, but he improves with each passing season. His instincts continually develop and his tendencies to be overly physical at times now seem like a thing of the past, which has led him to an amazing 2017 season.
"“While doing so he managed to have his best season in 2016 when he had 52 tackles, 11 pass deflections, five interceptions and one touchdown on an interception return. He earned his first trip to the Pro Bowl for his great outing and, at just 26 years old, there’s plenty of time left for him to get even better at what he does.”"
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What will the 2017 NFL season hold for Xavier Rhodes with the Minnesota Vikings? It’s hard to know for now. But with him lining up as a starting defensive back, fans and the team can be comfortable in knowing he will make it very difficult for opposing receivers.