Can Mike Hughes become the Vikings No. 1 corner in 2020?
By Dean Jones
Minnesota Vikings cornerback Mike Hughes faces a huge season in 2020. But can he become the No.1 corner option?
It is going to a pivotal season for Minnesota Vikings cornerback Mike Hughes in 2020 that could shape his long-term ambitions with the franchise.
The former first-round pick has endured a frustrating first two seasons in the NFL. Hughes has suffered his fair share of injuries during his time in Minnesota that has hampered his overall progression.
The 23-year-old still has plenty of talent and time on his side. But you get the feeling that 2020 is something of a crossroads season for Hughes as he looks to make a starting spot his own.
He will not get a better chance than the upcoming season with the Vikings facing the possibility of losing Trae Waynes and Mackensie Alexander to free agency and underperforming Pro Bowler Xavier Rhodes set for release to ease salary cap concerns.
This leaves Mike Zimmer with just Hughes and Holton Hill as his top corners before free agency and the 2020 NFL Draft. The former UCF standout needs to impose his will on the Minnesota defense when next season begins to increase his importance to the franchise.
There is no doubt Hughes has the talent to be a starter in the NFL. He has shown glimpses of what he is capable of and good things could be in his future providing he avoids injury.
Hughes has plenty to prove going into 2020 and Zimmer is going to want more out of a player they took with the 30th overall selection in the 2018 draft.