Vikings might have found a starting CB opposite Patrick Peterson in Andrew Booth Jr.

The Minnesota Vikings have been searching for a No. 2 cornerback for a couple of years now. In recent seasons, they have cut ties with veteran cornerbacks Xavier Rhodes and Trae Waynes, and they have yet to re-sign veteran cornerback Mackensie Alexander this offseason. 

They were able to sign back likely future Hall of Fame cornerback Patrick Peterson earlier this offseason to a one-year deal after he spent 2021 with the team. The team is still looking to pair Peterson with another cornerback. The Vikings may have found their long-term solution in second-round pick Andrew Booth Jr.

Booth was selected with the 42nd overall pick in April's NFL Draft. At Clemson, Booth was an All-ACC performer in 2020 after recording 27 tackles and four passes defensed. He recorded 37 tackles in his final season in 2021, along with a team-leading three interceptions and five passes defensed. The Georgia native has good size (6-0, 194 pounds) and strong burst. He has elite ball skills and great footwork. Booth is extremely competitive in coverage and has a top-notch jab at the release point of the receiver. 

Looking at 2022, Booth appears to be the favorite to line up on the opposite side of Peterson. The team added veteran slot cornerback Chandon Sullivan in free agency. 2020 All-Rookie performer Cameron Dantzler is back for his third season, so the team will have depth at that position. However, Booth appears to have the inside track at starting immediately due to his potential and play-making ability.