MANKATO, Minn. -- Mackensie Alexander played 64 defensive snaps as a rookie for the Minnesota Vikings in 2016. In 2017, he likely will get the first chance to man a position that has taken on increased importance across the NFL over the past decade.
Alexander, who has received first-team snaps at nickel cornerback throughout the offseason and was with the Vikings' top defensive group in their first full-squad practice Thursday, could become something of a 12th starter this fall, as the Vikings give the former second-round pick an opportunity to replace Captain Munnerlyn.