3 players the Vikings could have drafted instead of Lewis Cine in 2022

Player No. 3

Roger McCreary - CB

The Vikings defense was supposed to be better in 2023. After three games, it’s anything but. Minnesota’s secondary was also supposed to be much improved. Instead, opposing receivers are having huge days against the Vikings’ corners. Going back in time, it would have benefitted the franchise to pick Roger McCreary with Cine’s spot.

McCreary played four years at corner for the Auburn Tigers and was named a starter in 2020. That year, he pulled down three interceptions, 38 solo tackles, seven tackles for loss, and six passes defended.

In 2021, he had two picks (including an interception for a pick-six), one sack, 41 solo tackles, and two tackles for a loss. After the regular season, McCreary was named first-team All-SEC and first-team All-American.

He was then selected with the 35th overall pick in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans, and he started every game as a rookie. During the season, he had 84 total tackles (including 70 solo), eight passes defended, and one interception. So far, in 2023, McCreary has 16 tackles and one sack.

Currently, the Vikings' secondary has just one interception total (by backup safety Theo Jackson). Unfortunately, we won’t know if a player like McCreary could have increased that total and given Minnesota a better chance with its pass defense.