Trae Waynes – CB
Trae Waynes is coming off a tough game against the Chiefs. He was paired up with Tyreek Hill and was clearly the loser in that contest. Waynes bit early on breaks Hill was making, allowing the speedster to get open. Speaking of speed, Hill also blazed by Waynes a couple of times that resulted in explosive game-changing plays for the Chiefs.
That was especially tough to watch as a lot of Waynes’ game relies on his speed to stick with even the fastest receivers down the field. For a guy who is in a contract year, Waynes isn’t exactly securing his future with the way he’s played this season.
Waynes has been okay overall. This season, he has 34 tackles, seven pass breakups, a forced fumble, and an interception. Still, he tends to give up at least one big play a game and not playing to the standards he’s set for himself coverage wise.
The Vikings will need him at his best this Sunday night. It’s unclear who Waynes will be tasked with guarding. Amari Cooper is a flat-out stud, with his big body, sticky mitts, and good overall speed. Michael Gallup is also a tough draw and has good speed and playmaking ability.
With Dak Prescott being able to create extra time in the pocket with his elusiveness, Waynes will have to stay on his man for an extended period of time. If he can shut down the man he’s covering, that’ll make things that much harder for Prescott and the Cowboys’ offense.