Mackensie Alexander viewed as one of the NFL’s top slot defenders
By Adam Patrick
USA Today’s Doug Farrar recently revealed his top 11 slot defenders in the NFL and the Minnesota Vikings corner was among those selected.
Mackensie Alexander’s future in the NFL wasn’t looking very bright after his first two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. But Alexander stepped up his performance in a big way last year and he has emerged as an important part of the Vikings’ defense.
Despite his lack of excitement about Minnesota wanting him to line up primarily in the slot when he first joined the team, Alexander has blossomed into one of the best inside corners in the league.
USA Today’s Doug Farrar recently released his selections for the best 11 slot defenders in the NFL and the young Vikings corner ended up at No. 8 on the list. Farrar explained why he thinks Alexander should be considered among the top current slot defenders in the league.
"“Alexander has the closing speed to work well in zone coverage, but he’s especially effective in man and match coverage because he’s learned to anticipate route concepts and combinations, and he’s efficiently aggressive to the ball.In 2018, the former second-round pick out of Clemson allowed 35 receptions in 54 slot targets for 337 yards, 234 yards after the catch, no touchdowns, and an opponent passer rating of 82.1. As Alexander continues to grow into his role, expect more of the same in one of the NFL’s best defenses.”"
Alexander’s placement on this list is a testament to how hard he has worked during his time with Minnesota. His skills have progressed during each of his three seasons with the Vikings and there is no reason to believe that he won’t continue to do so in 2019 as well.
However, the upcoming season could also be Alexander’s last with Minnesota. He is currently set to become a free agent in 2020 and depending on how he performs this year, his price tag may be too high for the Vikings to bring him back.
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For now though, Minnesota is just hoping that Alexander’s play continues to improve and he helps the team’s defense stay among the NFL’s best in 2019.