Marcus

McCauley

McCauley is the leader to act as Minnesota’s nickel back this year, stepping in outside during obvious passing situations while Antonie Winfield covers the slot. With a good camp, he may push Cedric Griffin to start at right corner.

Edwards is taking Antoine Winfield’s spot at left cornerback. He’s currently the lead candidate to hold down nickel duties over rookie Marcus McCauley.

McCauley, a third-round pick from Fresno State, ran outside while Antoine Winfield manned the slot. Also in the mix for nickel duties are Charles Gordon and Devonte Edwards, but McCauley has the best natural skill set.

The team has soured on the 2007 third-rounder who spent much of last season as a game-day inactive. Third-rounder Asher Allen’s arrival has created a logjam at cornerback where he will compete with Charles Gordon, Karl Paymah, and Benny Sapp for nickel back duties.

McCauley’s role diminished in each of his two seasons with the Vikings. The 2007 third-round pick has an excellent size/speed combination, however, and figures to get claimed on waivers. He’d profile perfectly in Oakland.

McCauley was unable to last more than three weeks in Detroit’s league-worst secondary, so he’s not going to be an asset in Tampa.

McCauley was a third-round pick in 2007. He has good size and speed and should be able to help the Lions right away. Lord knows they need it.

McCauley was claimed off waivers from the Vikings earlier this month. It’s not a good sign that he was unable to work his way into Detroit’s woeful cornerback picture.

Coach Brad Childress said McCauley was behind after missing preseason practice time with a knee injury. Special teams ability was also a factor. McCauley’s status will be determined on a week-to-week basis.

Johnson has the speed and agility to be more than just the in-the-box safety he was in college. The nickel was a trouble spot for Minnesota last season, with Marcus McCauley and Charles Gordon both failing to nail the job down.