Vikings HC Mike Zimmer on Mackensie Alexander – “It’s all systems go for him.”
Former Clemson Tiger, Mackensie Alexander was a second round pick of the Minnesota Vikings in the 2016 NFL draft. Though he struggled as a rookie, Alexander appears primed for a breakout season in 2017.
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In a recent interview with ESPN’s Ben Goessling, Minnesota Vikings head coach, Mike Zimmer said the following of Alexander.
"He’s matured a lot. We’ve had him in there at the nickel position and he’s done a really good job. He’s been impressive these first three days. Very few mental mistakes and he’s a really good athlete."
Coming out of Clemson, Alexander was one of the top defensive back prospects in the draft. Unfortunately, he was not able to live up to that billing. Alexander had an underwhelming rookie season in 2016, recording just 5 total tackles in 13 games played.
The Vikings already have one of the top defenses in the NFL headlined by players such as, Xavier Rhodes, Everson Griffith and Anthony Barr. Mackensie Alexander will provide the Vikings stout defense with yet another weapon.
Mike Zimmer went on to say the following of Alexander.
"This is how much the kid’s grown up; so, he actually spoke to our rookies the other day. He talked to them about how he’s grown from last year with some of his attitude things and what he could’ve done better."
It is clear that Alexander has grown to be more mature and figured out what it takes to be successful in the NFL.
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