Some rookies start out as backups and sit on the bench as they learn what needs to be done to become a starter at the NFL level. CB Cameron Dantzler did not have that luxury.
Due to mass departures in free agency, the Vikings have had to rely on rookies to step into big roles right away. Dantzler, for instance, has started all four games he has played in. When healthy, the first-year player is on the field quite a bit for Minnesota.
Dantzler talked about what he’s learned so far in the NFL:
The game is much faster. There are bigger and better receivers so I just got to get more physical and make plays when they are there to be made and be tighter on coverage,” Dantzler said, via the Vikings. “I feel like … playing in the four games I have played, I’ve learned from them.”
Dantzler has not always been consistent and the Vikings secondary has been a weak spot in the defense. That said, he’s only a rookie and has shown flashes of promise. It will be interesting to see how Jeff Gladney and him develop down the road.