Will Trae Waynes Start for the Vikings in 2016?
Minnesota Vikings’ cornerback, Trae Waynes, is now heading into his second season with the team. The 2015 first round pick didn’t play often last year but made the most of his opportunities.
In his rookie season, Waynes intercepted one pass, had four passes deflected and accumulated 30 tackles. When Terrance Newman was injured or needed rest, Waynes jumped in and answered the call.
With the rookie learning curve out of the way, will Waynes be a viable starting candidate next season?
AROUND COVER32
Fantasy Football: Ranking the top ten wide receivers
Kick Returns: Devin Hester hates new touchback rule
PEDs: League to talk with three stars in June
2016 Preview: Predictions for the NFC East division
Vikings Today: First session of OTA’s recap and takeaways
Vikings Update: Matt Kalil to have a comeback year in 2016
Analysis
In 2016, Waynes will be expected to play a much larger role in the defense. With a year of guidance and development under his belt, he’ll be poised for a breakout season. Waynes will be the odds on favorite to start opposite of Xavier Rhodes.
The former Michigan State Spartan brings it all to the table. He may not have the overall bulk and size, but Waynes is tall enough and has plenty of speed to stay locked on opposing wideouts. He also has great ability to change direction and break to the ball.
Playing defense isn’t all he can do. Waynes proved himself worthy and impactful for the Vikings on special teams as well. Time after time, he was able to get down the field on punt coverage and make a play on the returner.
Waynes showed flashes of elite level talent in his rookie campaign. If he can stay on the same track in 2016, all arrows are pointing up.
Wrap up
Similar to Vikings’ quarterback, Teddy Bridgewater, Waynes plays with a high level of confidence and in a cool, collective manner. Even though the two play on completely different sides of the ball, the similar mentality will help Waynes and his continued progression.
Vikings fans have likely heard it a million times before, but Waynes has every tool he needs to become a top level corner in the NFL. His talent adds depth to an already up and coming secondary under head coach Mike Zimmer. Rhodes and Waynes are on the path to becoming an elite tandem on the outside and could hold down the secondary for years to come.
Austin Erwin writes for cover32 and covers the Minnesota Vikings. He can be followed on Twitter @austin_erwin
The post Will Trae Waynes Start for the Vikings in 2016? appeared first on Cover32.
