Vikings Training Camp 2021: Top 5 takeaways from Day 7

Jul 30, 2021; Eagan, MN, United States; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Whop Philyor (16) catches a pass at training camp at TCO Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 30, 2021; Eagan, MN, United States; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Whop Philyor (16) catches a pass at training camp at TCO Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
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Minnesota Vikings
(Photo by Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports) Mackensie Alexander

The return of the Mack

There were plenty of rumblings about the relationship between Mackensie Alexander and the Minnesota Vikings coaching staff during his first stint with the team. As soon as the opportunity came up, the young defensive back left for the Bengals, only to return one season later.

During a press conference with Mike Zimmer hosted on the official Vikings Twitter account, the coach said that the Mackensie Alexander that is in training camp today is much different from the “difficult” one he previously coached.

He praised Alexander for his maturity, noting that he is “engaging and communicating, listening to everything, and not making mistakes.” This new attitude has impressed the coach and should help him succeed this season.

Alexander will likely compete with Cameron Dantzler for snaps in the team’s nickel formations as well as serve as a backup for Patrick Peterson and Bashaud Breeland. If he can continue to work hard and listen to the coaching staff, the sky could be the limit for Mackensie under Mike Zinner.

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