5 things to watch for in the Vikings Week 4 game vs. the Bears
By Chris Schad
Will Alexander play on Sunday?
Mackensie Alexander was one of the most encouraging developments in the Vikings 2018 season as he came of age and locked down the starting slot corner job for Mike Zimmer’s defense. Many expected big things out of the Clemson product this season, but things got derailed when Alexander dislocated his elbow during the Vikings’ Week 1 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
Such an injury usually takes some time to heal, but somehow Alexander might be able to suit up for Sunday’s matchup with the Bears. While there is obvious risk coming back after three weeks, getting Alexander back would be a massive boost for the defense considering what he was able to do last year.
From Week 4 on, Alexander ranked ninth in the NFL in yards per coverage snap in the slot (0.95) and fifth in passer rating allowed (70.4) on those snaps according to Pro Football Focus. He was also off to a good start against the Falcons not allowing a reception on 13 coverage snaps (one target) before getting injured.
While we have no idea how Alexander would react to such a quick return, having him on the field could help slow down the Bears’ variety of weapons including Allen Robinson, who leads Chicago with 108 snaps in the slot this season.