Mekhi Blackmon - CB
I have a feeling Mekhi Blackmon is going to be a staple of this defense for a long time. He is still getting his feet wet in the secondary and splitting time with Akayleb Evans, but Blackmon has been unreal as a rookie.
You will hardly hear his name called on the broadcast, which is the ideal situation for a young defensive back. On Sunday, Blackmon finally came up with his first career interception after dropping a few chances earlier in the season. With the defensive front creating pressure, Blackmon is holding his own on the perimeter.
The Saints only really had success throwing the ball when targeting receivers away from Blackmon throughout the game. His speed and ball skills are already huge difference-makers as he settles into his role.
The Vikings are going to continue throwing him out there in big moments, so Blackmon just needs to be true to himself and trust his instincts down the field. With two great safeties covering behind him, Blackmon can be a bit more aggressive and create problems for opposing offenses.
I know Blackmon has been on this list a lot despite being relatively quiet in the box score, but he is the real deal. The Vikings absolutely nailed this draft pick.