Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Cornerbacks of All Time
Cornerbacks have been an integral part of the Minnesota Vikings' defensive success since the team's inception in 1960. These talented players have been tasked with shutting down opposing wide receivers, making game-changing interceptions, and consistently defending passes to stifle enemy offenses. Throughout the Vikings' history, the cornerback position has produced some of the most iconic, impactful, and legendary players to ever don the purple and gold, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.
From lockdown defenders with unparalleled man-to-man coverage skills to ball-hawking playmakers who can change the course of a game with a single interception, this list represents the very best of what the position has to offer in Minnesota Vikings history. These elite cornerbacks have redefined the position, set new standards for excellence, and inspired generations of defensive backs who have followed in their footsteps.
Without further ado, here is our ranking of the 10 best Vikings cornerbacks of all time:
(If you didn’t catch Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Wide Receivers of All Time, you can read that here.)
10. Jimmy Hitchcock
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 0
Summary:
Jimmy Hitchcock, a third-round draft pick from Auburn University in 1998, became a reliable cornerback for the Minnesota Vikings during his four-year stint with the team. Hitchcock's speed, agility, and ball skills made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' secondary in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Hitchcock quickly adapted to the NFL game and earned a starting role with the Vikings in his rookie season. His ability to cover receivers one-on-one, read quarterbacks, and make plays on the ball helped solidify the Vikings' pass defense.
As Hitchcock's career progressed, he became a consistent performer in the Vikings' secondary, often tasked with covering the opposing team's top receivers. His quickness and instincts allowed him to break up passes and create turnovers, making him a valuable contributor to the team's defensive success.
While Hitchcock never earned individual accolades like Pro Bowl selections or All-Pro honors, his steady play and reliability were highly valued by his teammates and coaches. He started 48 out of the 63 games he played for the Vikings, demonstrating his durability and consistency.
After his tenure with the Vikings, Hitchcock spent a season each with the Carolina Panthers and the New England Patriots before retiring in 2003. Despite his relatively short career, Hitchcock's impact on the Vikings' defense during his time with the team was significant.
Jimmy Hitchcock's legacy with the Vikings is one of reliability, consistency, and solid play. While he may not have been a flashy or outspoken player, his contributions to the team's secondary were essential during his four years in Minnesota. Hitchcock's ability to cover receivers, make plays on the ball, and provide a steady presence in the defensive backfield earned him the respect of his peers and a place among the best Vikings cornerbacks of all time.
9. Earsell Mackbee
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 0
Summary:
Earsell Mackbee, a undrafted free agent from Utah State University in 1965, became a key contributor to the Minnesota Vikings' secondary during his five-year career with the team. Mackbee's physicality, toughness, and nose for the ball made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' defense in the late 1960s.
Mackbee's journey to the NFL was unconventional, as he initially signed with the Vikings as a free agent and had to prove himself to earn a roster spot. His hard work and dedication paid off, as he quickly established himself as a reliable cornerback and earned a starting role in his second season.
As Mackbee's career progressed, he became known for his physical style of play and his ability to disrupt opposing receivers at the line of scrimmage. His aggressive approach and willingness to tackle made him a valuable run defender as well.
While Mackbee never earned individual accolades like Pro Bowl selections or All-Pro honors, his contributions to the Vikings' defense were highly valued by his teammates and coaches. He started 37 out of the 60 games he played for the Vikings, demonstrating his reliability and consistency.
Mackbee's most memorable moments with the Vikings came during the team's playoff runs in the late 1960s. His tough play and knack for making crucial stops played a significant role in establishing the Vikings as one of the top defensive teams in the league, earning them the reputation of the infamous Purple People Eaters defense.
After his tenure with the Vikings, Mackbee retired from the NFL in 1970. Despite his relatively short career, Mackbee's impact on the Vikings' defense during his time with the team was significant, as he helped lay the foundation for the team's success in the years to come.
Earsell Mackbee's legacy with the Vikings is one of toughness, physicality, and a relentless work ethic. While he may not have received the individual recognition of some of his peers, his contributions to the team's defense were essential during his five years in Minnesota. Mackbee's aggressive style of play, ability to disrupt receivers, and willingness to support the run defense earned him the respect of his teammates and a place among the best cornerbacks in Vikings history.
8. Ed Sharockman
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 0
Summary:
Ed Sharockman, an fifth-round draft pick from the University of Pittsburgh in 1961, became a cornerstone of the Minnesota Vikings' secondary during his 12-year career with the team. Sharockman's consistency, intelligence, and leadership made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' defense throughout the 1960s and early 1970s.
Sharockman quickly earned a starting role with the Vikings and established himself as one of the most reliable cornerbacks in the league. His ability to read offenses, anticipate routes, and make quick, decisive breaks on the ball made him a formidable opponent for opposing quarterbacks and receivers.
As Sharockman's career progressed, he became a leader on the Vikings' defense and a respected figure in the locker room. His work ethic, professionalism, and dedication to his craft earned him the admiration of his teammates and coaches alike.
Sharockman's peak seasons occurred in the early 1970s, during which he recorded 7 interceptions in 1970 and 6 interceptions in the 1971 season. His performance during these years showcased his impact on the team's success and his ability to shut down opposing receivers.
Throughout his career, Sharockman's durability and consistency were remarkable. He started 123 out of the 160 games he played, rarely missing time due to injury and always providing a reliable presence in the Vikings' secondary.
After retiring as a player in 1973, Sharockman's legacy as one of the most dependable and intelligent cornerbacks of his era was secure. While he may not have received the individual accolades of some of his contemporaries, his impact on the Vikings' franchise and his reputation as a consummate professional were undeniable.
Ed Sharockman's legacy is one of consistency, intelligence, and leadership. He epitomized the qualities of a true professional, always putting the team first and dedicating himself to his craft. Sharockman's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 12-year career was significant, as he helped anchor a secondary that supported the team's success throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. His place among the best cornerbacks in Vikings history is well-deserved, and his contributions to the team will not be forgotten.
7. Terence Newman
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 2
Summary:
Terence Newman, a first-round draft pick from Kansas State University in 2003, joined the Minnesota Vikings in the latter part of his career and made a significant impact on the team's secondary. Newman's experience, athleticism, and versatility made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' defense from 2015 to 2017.
Before joining the Vikings, Newman had already established himself as a top-tier cornerback during his time with the Dallas Cowboys and Cincinnati Bengals. His speed, instincts, and ball skills made him a consistent performer and earned him two Pro Bowl selections (2007 and 2009).
When Newman arrived in Minnesota, he brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience that immediately benefited the Vikings' young secondary. Despite being one of the older players on the team, Newman's athleticism and competitiveness allowed him to continue performing at a high level.
During his three seasons with the Vikings, Newman played a crucial role in the team's defensive success. His ability to cover receivers, both in man-to-man and zone coverage, helped the Vikings' defense become one of the best in the league.
Newman's leadership and mentorship were also invaluable to the Vikings' locker room. He took younger cornerbacks under his wing, sharing his knowledge and helping them develop their skills on and off the field.
While Newman's individual accolades with the Vikings may not match those from earlier in his career, his impact on the team's success cannot be overstated. He started 33 out of the 47 games he played for the Vikings, providing stability and consistency to the secondary.
After retiring as a player following the 2017 season, Newman's legacy as a consummate professional and a mentor to younger players was secure. His contributions to the Vikings' defense during his three years with the team helped solidify his place among the best cornerbacks in franchise history.
Terence Newman's legacy with the Vikings is one of experience, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. Despite joining the team in the twilight of his career, Newman's impact on the Vikings' defense and locker room was significant. His ability to perform at a high level, mentor younger players, and contribute to the team's success earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Newman's place among the best cornerbacks in Vikings history is well-deserved, and his contributions to the team will be remembered for years to come.
6. Bobby Bryant
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 2
Summary:
Bobby Bryant, a seventh-round draft pick from the University of South Carolina in 1967, became a fixture in the Minnesota Vikings' secondary during his 14-year career with the team. Bryant's consistency, ball-hawking skills, and durability made him one of the most respected cornerbacks in the NFL throughout the 1970s.
Bryant quickly earned a starting role with the Vikings and established himself as a reliable and productive cornerback. His ability to read quarterbacks, anticipate routes, and make plays on the ball helped him become a key contributor to the Vikings' defensive success.
As Bryant's career progressed, he developed a reputation as one of the best ball-hawking corners in the league. His instincts and quickness allowed him to intercept 51 passes throughout his career, which remains the second-highest total in Vikings history.
Bryant's peak seasons came in the mid-1970s when he was selected to two consecutive Pro Bowls (1975 and 1976). During this period, he was widely regarded as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, consistently shutting down opposing receivers and making game-changing plays.
Throughout his career, Bryant's durability and consistency were remarkable. He started 157 out of the 176 games he played, rarely missing time due to injury and always providing a reliable presence in the Vikings' secondary.
After retiring as a player in 1981, Bryant's legacy as one of the most productive and consistent cornerbacks in Vikings history was secure. His ball-hawking skills, longevity, and impact on the team's success throughout the 1970s earned him a place among the franchise's all-time greats.
Bobby Bryant's legacy is one of consistency, durability, and a nose for the ball. He epitomized the qualities of a true professional, always putting the team first and dedicating himself to his craft. Bryant's impact on the Vikings' franchise during his 14-year career was significant, as he helped anchor a secondary that supported the team's success throughout the 1970s. His place among the best Vikings cornerbacks of all time is well-deserved, and his contributions to the team will always be remembered by fans and teammates alike.
5. Antoine Winfield
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 3
Summary:
Antoine Winfield, a first-round draft pick from Ohio State University in 1999, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2004 and quickly became a cornerstone of the team's defense. Winfield's physicality, versatility, and leadership made him one of the most respected cornerbacks in the NFL during his nine-year tenure with the Vikings.
Before joining the Vikings, Winfield had already established himself as a talented cornerback during his time with the Buffalo Bills. His quickness, instincts, and toughness made him a valuable asset to any defense.
When Winfield arrived in Minnesota, he brought with him a level of intensity and competitiveness that immediately bolstered the Vikings' secondary. Despite his relatively small stature, Winfield's physicality and willingness to tackle made him a formidable opponent for receivers and ball carriers alike.
During his time with the Vikings, Winfield's versatility was a key component of his success. He excelled in both man-to-man and zone coverage, and his ability to blitz and support the run defense made him a complete player.
Winfield's peak seasons with the Vikings came in the late 2000s when he was selected to three consecutive Pro Bowls (2008, 2009, and 2010). His performance during these years showcased his impact on the team's success and his ability to consistently perform at an elite level.
Throughout his career with the Vikings, Winfield's leadership and mentorship were invaluable to the team's locker room. He set an example for younger players with his work ethic, professionalism, and dedication to his craft.
After the 2012 season, his final season with the Vikings, Winfield retired from the NFL in 2013. His legacy as one of the most complete and physically dominant cornerbacks of his era was secure, and his impact on the Vikings' franchise was undeniable.
Antoine Winfield's legacy with the Vikings is one of toughness, versatility, and leadership. His ability to excel in all aspects of the game, from coverage to run support, made him a true asset to the team's defense. Winfield's impact on the Vikings' success during his nine years with the team, along with his mentorship of younger players, earned him a place among the best cornerbacks in franchise history. His contributions to the Vikings will always be remembered and cherished by fans and teammates alike.
4. Audray McMillian
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 1
- Pro Bowls: 1
Summary:
Audray McMillian, a third-round draft pick from the University of Houston in 1985, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 1989 and quickly established himself as a starting cornerback in the NFL. McMillian's ball-hawking skills, athleticism, and competitive spirit made him a key contributor to the Vikings' defense during his five-year tenure with the team.
Before joining the Vikings, McMillian spent three seasons with the Houston Oilers, where he showed promise as a young cornerback. However, it was during his time in Minnesota that he truly blossomed into an elite player.
Upon arriving in Minnesota, McMillian immediately made an impact on the Vikings' secondary. His speed, quickness, and instincts allowed him to consistently make plays on the ball and shut down opposing receivers.
McMillian's peak season came in 1992 when he led the NFL with eight interceptions, earning him both First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors. His performance that year showcased his ability to be a game-changing defender and solidified his reputation as one of the best cornerbacks in the league.
Throughout his career with the Vikings, McMillian's competitive nature and work ethic were evident both on and off the field. He was a respected leader in the locker room and consistently set an example for his teammates with his dedication to his craft.
After retiring from the NFL in 1994, McMillian's legacy as one of the most talented and productive cornerbacks in franchise history was secure. His ball-hawking skills, combined with his leadership and competitiveness, earned him a place among the Vikings' all-time greats.
Audray McMillian's legacy with the Vikings is one of excellence, both in terms of his on-field performance and his leadership. His ability to consistently make game-changing plays and shut down opposing receivers made him a vital component of the team's defense during his five years in Minnesota. McMillian's impact on the Vikings' success, along with his First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections, cements his status as one of the best cornerbacks in franchise history. His contributions to the team will always be remembered and celebrated by Vikings fans and his former teammates.
3. Patrick Peterson
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 3
- Pro Bowls: 8
Summary:
Patrick Peterson, a first-round draft pick from Louisiana State University in 2011, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2021 after a decade of dominance with the Arizona Cardinals. Peterson's exceptional athleticism, technique, and football IQ have made him one of the most respected and feared cornerbacks in the NFL throughout his career.
During his time with the Cardinals, Peterson established himself as a true shutdown corner, capable of neutralizing the league's best receivers. His rare combination of size, speed, and fluid movement skills allowed him to excel in both man-to-man and zone coverage schemes.
Peterson's impact on the field was immediate, as he earned Pro Bowl honors in each of his first eight seasons (2011-2018) and was named First-Team All-Pro three times (2011, 2013, and 2015). His ability to consistently perform at an elite level and match up against top receivers made him a cornerstone of the Cardinals' defense for a decade.
When Peterson joined the Vikings in 2021, he brought with him a wealth of experience, leadership, and skill. Despite being in the latter stages of his career, he quickly became a valuable asset to the Vikings' secondary, providing guidance to younger players and continuing to showcase his abilities on the field.
Throughout his career, Peterson has been known for his tireless work ethic, competitive spirit, and dedication to his craft. These qualities, combined with his on-field excellence, have made him a respected figure among his peers and a fan favorite wherever he has played.
Despite spending most of his career in Arizona, his legacy as one of the best Vikings cornerbacks of all time is secure, and his impact on the game, both through his individual achievements and his influence on younger players, will be felt for years to come.
Patrick Peterson's tenure with the Vikings is characterized by excellence, experience, and leadership. His addition to the team brought a level of skill and knowledge that elevated the play of the entire secondary. Peterson's impact on the Vikings' defense, combined with his remarkable career achievements, solidifies his place among the best cornerbacks in franchise history. Though his time with the Vikings was brief, his contributions undoubtedly fueled the team's success, leaving fans to cherish the opportunity to witness one of the game's greatest corners donning purple and gold.
2. Xavier Rhodes
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 1
- Pro Bowls: 3
Summary:
Xavier Rhodes, a first-round draft pick from Florida State University in 2013, quickly became a cornerstone of the Minnesota Vikings' defense during his seven-year tenure with the team. Rhodes' physicality, length, and coverage skills made him one of the most dominant cornerbacks in the NFL during his prime.
From the moment he stepped on the field for the Vikings, Rhodes showcased his potential as a shutdown corner. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism allowed him to match up with the league's top receivers and consistently make plays on the ball.
As Rhodes developed his skills and gained experience, he became known for his ability to excel in both man-to-man and zone coverage schemes. His aggressive style of play and willingness to challenge receivers at the line of scrimmage made him a difficult opponent for even the most talented pass-catchers.
Rhodes' peak seasons came in the mid-to-late 2010s when he earned three Pro Bowl selections (2016, 2017, and 2019) and a First-Team All-Pro nod (2017). During this period, he was widely regarded as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, consistently shutting down opposing teams' top receiving threats.
Throughout his career with the Vikings, Rhodes' impact on the team's defensive success was undeniable. His ability to take away one side of the field and force quarterbacks to look elsewhere helped elevate the play of his teammates and made the Vikings' defense one of the most formidable in the league.
After leaving the Vikings following the 2019 season, Rhodes spent time with the Indianapolis Colts and Buffalo Bills before becoming a free agent. Despite the change in scenery, his legacy as one of the most dominant cornerbacks in Vikings history was already secure.
Xavier Rhodes' legacy with the Vikings is one of physicality, dominance, and excellence. His ability to consistently shut down top receivers and make game-changing plays helped define the team's defense during his seven years in Minnesota. Rhodes' impact on the Vikings' success, along with his First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections, cements his status as one of the best Vikings cornerbacks of all time. His contributions to the team will always be remembered and celebrated by Vikings fans and his former teammates.
1. Carl Lee
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 1
- Pro Bowls: 3
Summary:
Carl Lee, a seventh-round draft pick from Marshall University in 1983, became one of the most iconic and productive cornerbacks in Minnesota Vikings history during his 11-year tenure with the team. Lee's combination of athleticism, intelligence, and leadership made him a key figure in the Vikings' defense throughout the 1980s and early 1990s.
Lee quickly established himself as a starter in the Vikings' secondary and began to showcase his skills as a lockdown corner. His quickness, fluid hips, and excellent ball skills allowed him to consistently blanket opposing receivers and make plays on the ball.
As Lee's career progressed, he developed into one of the most complete cornerbacks in the NFL. He excelled in both man-to-man and zone coverage, and his ability to read and react to offensive schemes made him a valuable asset to the Vikings' defense.
Lee's peak seasons came in the late 1980s and early 1990s when he earned one First-Team All-Pro selection (1988) and three straight Pro Bowl nods (1988, 1989, and 1990). During this period, he was widely regarded as one of the best cornerbacks in the league, consistently shutting down top receivers and making game-changing plays.
Throughout his career with the Vikings, Lee's leadership and mentorship were just as valuable as his on-field performance. He was a respected voice in the locker room and served as a role model for younger players, helping to foster a culture of excellence within the organization.
After leaving the Vikings following the 1993 season, Lee spent one year with the New Orleans Saints before retiring. His legacy as one of the greatest cornerbacks in Vikings history was already secure, and his impact on the franchise extended well beyond his playing days.
Carl Lee's legacy with the Vikings is one of excellence, leadership, and longevity. His ability to consistently perform at an elite level and shut down opposing receivers made him a vital component of the team's defense for over a decade. Lee's impact on the Vikings' success, along with his three First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections, cements his status as one of the best cornerbacks in franchise history. His contributions to the team, both on and off the field, will always be remembered and celebrated by Vikings fans and his former teammates.
The Enduring Legacy of the Best Vikings Cornerbacks of All Time
Throughout the history of the Minnesota Vikings, the cornerback position has produced some of the most influential and impactful players to ever wear the purple and gold. Legends such as Patrick Peterson, Carl Lee, and Antoine Winfield have left indelible marks on the franchise with their unparalleled skills, clutch performances, and unwavering dedication to excellence.
As the NFL has evolved, the role of the cornerback has become increasingly complex and demanding. From the classic shutdown corners of the past to the versatile, multi-threat defensive backs of today, the position has adapted to meet the demands of modern defenses. These elite cornerbacks are now tasked with not only shutting down the opposing team's best receivers but also providing run support, blitzing the quarterback, and even contributing on special teams when needed. Their ability to impact the game in multiple ways, from making crucial interceptions in high-pressure situations to forcing fumbles and disrupting the opposing offense's rhythm, can be the difference between victory and defeat.
The cornerbacks we've highlighted in this article represent the very best in Vikings history, each having made a lasting impact on the team and its fans. From the ball-hawking prowess of Patrick Peterson and the shutdown coverage skills of Carl Lee to the physicality and versatility of Antoine Winfield and the lockdown abilities of Xavier Rhodes, these players have set the standard for what it means to be an elite cornerback in Minnesota.
As the Vikings continue to build towards a championship future, a new generation of cornerbacks is poised to carry the torch and build upon the legacies of those who came before them. Players like Byron Murphy Jr., Mekhi Blackmon, Shaq Griffin, Andrew Booth Jr., and Akayleb Evans possess the skills, work ethic, and potential to one day join the ranks of the all-time greats and shape the future of the position in Minnesota.
The cornerback position has a rich history filled with some of the most iconic and impactful players in Vikings history. These legendary defenders have not only redefined what it means to play the position but have also left a lasting impact on the team, its fans, and the Minnesota community as a whole. As the Vikings move forward, the legacy of these all-time great cornerbacks will continue to inspire and influence the next generation of players, ensuring that the position remains a crucial and celebrated role in the team's success for years to come. Read next: Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Guards of All Time - Discover the 10 best guards in Minnesota Vikings history, from legends like Randall McDaniel to more recent stars such as Steve Hutchinson.