You may not have expected him to be a standout player on your early summer bingo board for the Minnesota Vikings, but cornerback Mekhi Blackmon has certainly made an impression during the team’s offseason activities.
Selected by the Vikings in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Blackmon was not a well-known name or a highly touted prospect. However, the young cornerback has quickly caught the attention of his coaches and teammates with his impressive work ethic and skills on the field.
At 5’11” and 185 pounds, Blackmon may not have the physical stature of some of his peers, but what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for with his determination and grit. He has consistently shown a hunger to improve and a willingness to put in the extra work to achieve his goals.
During the Vikings’ OTA and minicamp practices, Blackmon has been a standout performer, showcasing his speed, agility, and coverage skills. He has been able to keep up with some of the team’s top receivers, and his ability to make plays has not gone unnoticed.
But it’s not just his physical abilities that have impressed his coaches. Blackmon has also shown a great understanding of the game and a high football IQ. He has quickly picked up the team’s defensive schemes and has been able to execute them with precision.
His hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed by his teammates either. Veteran cornerback Patrick Peterson, who joined the Vikings this offseason, has been impressed by Blackmon’s work ethic and has taken him under his wing. Peterson has praised Blackmon’s talent and has been mentoring him both on and off the field.
Blackmon’s journey to the NFL has not been an easy one. He started his college career at Colorado State, where he redshirted his first year and then transferred to Colorado State University-Pueblo. In his junior year, he was named the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Defensive Player of the Year, showcasing his potential as a top-level talent.
Unfortunately, Blackmon’s senior year was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving him with limited game tape and a smaller draft profile. But the Vikings saw something special in him and took a chance on the young cornerback, and it’s safe to say that it has paid off so far.
Blackmon’s journey serves as an inspiration to anyone who has faced setbacks and obstacles in their pursuit of their dreams. He has proven that hard work, determination, and a never-give-up attitude can overcome any challenges that come your way.
As the Vikings head into training camp and the start of the regular season, Blackmon will have a lot to prove. With his impressive performance in the offseason activities, he has put himself in a great position to compete for a spot on the team’s roster and potentially even a starting role.
While it may have been unexpected, Mekhi Blackmon has quickly become a name to watch out for on the Vikings’ roster. His passion for the game and his drive to succeed make him a valuable asset to the team, and his future in the NFL looks bright.
So, don’t be surprised if you see #38 making big plays on the field this upcoming season. Mekhi Blackmon may not have been on your early summer bingo board, but he has certainly earned his spot on the Vikings’ roster and has proven that he belongs in the NFL.
