5 young Vikings players to watch closely at 2021 training camp

Cameron Dantzler – CB

Considering there wasn’t much veteran presence at cornerback for the Vikings in 2020, Cameron Dantzler handled himself really well.

First-year players at the position do go through more complications than most against wide receivers that break off big yardage or score touchdowns with every mistake. But overall, the Vikings couldn’t have asked much more from Dantzler during his rookie year.

What comes next for Dantzler will be equally as important. Minnesota has an obvious situation with Jeff Gladney that might end on a sour note, but the additions of Patrick Peterson, Bashaud Breeland, and Mackensie Alexander are sure to give the secondary a big shot in the arm.

These additions should assist Dantzler more than most. He is still a big piece of the puzzle, but there won’t be anything like as much pressure on the Mississippi State product in Year 2.

This could propel Dantzler’s game to greater heights. His production in 2020 earned the player an impressive 70.9 grade from Pro Football Focus, which is a strong indication Minnesota might have struck gold with yet another third-round selection.

More is expected of sophomore cornerbacks now they’ve fully acclimatized to the rigors of the next level. Dantzler might go a little under the radar now for those on the outside looking in, but his importance to the Minnesota Vikings roster cannot be understated moving forward.