6 potential landing spots for Xavier Rhodes after Vikings release

The Minnesota Vikings predictably parted ways with underperforming cornerback Xavier Rhodes, but where could the Pro Bowler end up next?

Xavier Rhodes’ time with the Minnesota Vikings has come to an end after a seven-year spell. The cornerback was released by the Vikings to relieve salary cap space, which also saw defensive tackle Linval Joseph and tight end David Morgan shown the door.

Rhodes arrived in Minnesota as a first-round pick in 2013 out of Florida State and quickly emerged as one of the NFL’s premier cover corners. There are few that would deny the 29-year-old was the best in the business in 2017 on his way to an All-Pro selection.

His form since then has dipped considerably and even resulted in most opposing offenses targeting him to achieve success. This seemed unfathomable during the early stages of his tenor with the Vikings.

It was a sign of things to come for Rhodes, who struggled mightily in 2019. His frustrations came to the fore on more than one occasion on the sidelines. The player also received public criticism from head coach Mike Zimmer which did not result in a turnaround in fortunes.

There is a chance Rhodes can resurrect his career with another franchise. But his prospects of becoming a No.1 cornerback elsewhere appear slim. He is big and tackles well, so a move to the safety position is not out of the question.

Here are six teams that might be in the market for Rhodes when free agency begins.