Reviewing the performance of the Vikings 2020 rookie class
By Nik Edlund
Cameron Dantzler – CB (Mississippi State)
2020 Stats:
- 46 tackles (3 for a loss)
- 4 pass breakups
- 2 interceptions
- 11 games played (10 starts)
The Vikings landed Cameron Dantzler in the third round of last year’s draft and, by all means, appear to have a steal on their hands. Dantzler fell to round three after running a very slow 40-yard dash at the Combine. His play was another reason why tape is more important than a workout, and he outplayed his draft position by quite a bit in his rookie season.
Dantzler shone in the preseason and was the talk of Vikings’ training camp. He was sticking stride for stride with players like Adam Thielen and worked himself into a heavy role once the season kicked off. Like Gladney, Dantzler proved to be a willing and exceptional tackler, having no issue flying up and taking on the biggest of backs.
Dantzler‘s coverage really improved as the season went on. Late in the year, he graded out as one of the top corners in the league, and that was evident in the blowout against the Saints, as he was rarely targeted. Dantzler also showed some playmaking ability with his two interceptions on the season. The only knock on Dantzler in year one was his inability to stay healthy. He only appeared in 11 games and suffered numerous injuries throughout the year.
He will enter the 2021 season as the team’s number one cornerback. It’s exciting to see how much he’ll develop over the offseason and through next year’s preseason. If he can stay healthy, he has the potential to be one of the best young corners in the league.