The Minnesota Vikings are firmly entrenched in OTAs and are progressing toward training camp at TCO Performance Center. This will be the third season under head coach Kevin O'Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and it's also a turning point in the future of the organization.
To prepare for the pivotal 2024 season, we will break down each player on the 90-man roster leading up to training camp. In this series, we will look into their background, scheme fit, best and worst case scenario along with what to expect from each player. It will also help gain more insight on each player going into the year, especially with players who haven't gotten much fanfare.
Can Dwight McGlothern make an impact in the Vikings' secondary?
Background
McGlothern was a four-star recruit who started his career with the LSU Tigers in Baton Rouge before making his way up to Arkansas for his final two years. He played in just 13 games across two seasons with the Tigers accumulating 34 tackles and one interception. Once he got to Arkansas, McGlothern took a step forward with 62 tackles and seven interceptions across 22 games with the Razorbacks. He did miss time in 2023 with a concussion and turf toe, with the latter hindering his pre-draft process.
Scheme fit
McGlothern is an aggressive cornerback who lacks the athletic profile to be great in man coverage. His aggressive nature can get him in trouble because of that athletic profile, but in zone concepts, he can see the ball and attack it in the air.
Best case scenario
There is room in the cornerback room to make waves for a UDFA. There are rumblings that Andrew Booth Jr. could be cut due to not being able to pick up the defense. If he ends up not making the final 53-man roster, McGlothern could get an opportunity to sneak on there with a stellar performance in training camp and the preseason.
Worst case scenario
McGlothern's lack of athleticism could become a major hindrance to making the team. He gets a little too aggressive on the ball and that leaves him prone to getting burned on double moves. It also could cost him in man coverage with his lack of solid change of direction skills.
What to expect in 2024
It's hard to project with McGlothern. He was a top 10 UDFA per the consensus board but the Vikings didn't make him a priority with just $20k guaranteed and a $10k signing bonus. It's still guaranteed money to get him the door and that means they do like him to some extent.
The cornerback position is rather deep but McGlothern could make some noise. His likely spot on the roster is going to come in the form of the first player elevated off the practice squad, a role held by player like Tay Gowan in the past.
Previous player profiles
Devron Harper | Ty James | Trey Knox | Gabriel Murphy
Make sure to check out our home page every day for the best and latest Minnesota Vikings news and analysis.
