4 Vikings who could lose their starting job to a rookie in 2023

Player No. 3

Akayleb Evans - CB

Akayleb Evans appears to currently be the starting corner opposite Byron Murphy on the Vikings' depth chart. Sure, Andrew Booth Jr. could have something to say about that, but when the season starts, it could be neither of those two as a starter. Instead, a rookie could be thrust into the action, and that rookie is Mekhi Blackmon.

Evans really doesn't have much more experience than Blackmon. He was in and out of the lineup as a rookie, as he battled concussions and ended up appearing in 10 games and starting just two. He showed flashes at times of becoming a quality cornerback but also had moments where he looked lost and just unable to make the play.

Blackmon is a very physical corner, sometimes too much. He isn't afraid to go against a bigger target and is aggressive in press-man coverage. He also has a knack for going up and finding the ball in the air, swatting it down or away from the intended target.

His grabbiness needs to get corrected, but it has been said that he's a perfect fit in Brian Flores' defense, and this could give him a leg up in the competition.

Blackmon has a strong chance to take Evans's starting job, and he also has a strong chance to be the Vikings' most productive rookie in 2023.