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Vikings find value in 2nd round, land CB Mackensie Alexander

Joshua S. Kelly / USA TODAY Sports

The Minnesota Vikings have selected cornerback Mackensie Alexander out of Clemson in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, 54th overall.

Alexander was a standout contributor on a dominant defense at Clemson, and his natural ability in coverage had many considering him as potential first-round talent.

Alexander will enter his rookie season with the opportunity to compete for a role alongside Xavier Rhodes, Captain Munnerlyn, Terence Newman, and 2015 first-round pick Trae Waynes.

Mackensie Alexander Bio

Position: CB
School: Clemson
College Experience: Redshirt Sophomore
Height: 5-10
Weight: 190 lbs.

Strengths

  • Alexander excels in press coverage, limiting his receiver's window of opportunity to get open.
  • He displays a willingness to tackle the ball carrier and shows good technique by wrapping up low. He flies to the ball on running plays and short to intermediate passes.
  • He seldom gets beat outside by crowding his receiver's space near the sideline.
  • He has great hip rotation and lateral movement. His fluid movement allows him to stay with receivers downfield.
  • Alexander exhibits high football intelligence in film breakdowns.
  • He's supremely confident: He celebrates after every impact play and has stated he's the best cornerback in the draft.

Weaknesses

  • There's legitimate concern over Alexander's ball skills as he failed to record an interception in two seasons.
  • He lacks the ideal height and size for his position.
  • Alexander will need to work on separating past the line of scrimmage. His tendency to cling onto opponents will make it easy for veteran wide receivers to draw penalties on him.

Combine Results

Event Result
40-yd Dash 4.47 sec
Bench Press N/A
Vertical Jump 37.5 inches
Broad Jump 121 inches
3-Cone Drill 7.18 sec
20-yd Shuttle 4.21 sec

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