Minnesota Vikings: Preliminary 53-man roster analysis
By Luke Sims
Dec 21, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Minnesota Vikings free safety Harrison Smith (22) tackles Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) in the second half of the game at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports
Safety: Harrison Smith, Robert Blanton, Antone Exum, Andrew Sendejo
Harrison Smith, Harrison Smith, Harrison Smith. The cream of the crop in the Minnesota Vikings secondary, Smith is poised for a great season. If he stays on the field for a full 16 games, the Vikings will be in great shape on the backend of their defense.
Bigger questions linger around the strong safety position, however. Robert Blanton could be the starter for the Vikes, but Antone Exum could be pushing for that starting spot. Exum has had a strong preseason and, in my mind, he is neck and neck with Blanton. I’m not particularly comfortable with either of them, if I’m being honest. Upgrades are certainly possible, but the Vikings appear confident in the position.
If Smith misses extended time (like he did in 2013) then the safety positions could be a concern. I’m confident in Smith, but I lack confidence with the others. I would like to say that everything is fine for the Vikings defense, but safety is a moderate concern, especially the other starting spot and depth.
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