5 Panthers players the Vikings should be most concerned about
By Nik Edlund
Jeremy Chinn – S/LB
The Panthers drafted this safety in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft and have since converted him to linebacker. Jeremy Chinn has answered the bell and has become arguably the best defensive rookie in all of football.
Chinn has been a beast this season. He’s racked up 74 total tackles, with five pass breakups and one interception. He’s extremely fast and can cover a lot of ground in a hurry. Being a safety, he also is solid in coverage and will be tasked to shut down the tight ends of the Vikings. The fact the Vikings haven’t relied heavily on their tight ends this season could actually benefit them in this game.
As far as the running game goes, Chinn will also be a problem. The Vikings’ line will need to get to the second level and take this guy out so he doesn’t shut down Cook and the Vikings’ ground attack. Cousins will also need to be aware of Chinn on the field, and respect his coverage skills and not force a ball his way because he’s got some syrup-like hands and it could result in a costly turnover.