The back-and-forth on rookie defensive back Trae Waynes continued Monday when Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer clarified comments made by defensive coordinator George Edwards.
Last week, Edwards,via Pro Football Talk, said “That’s what we’re aiming for,” when asked if Waynes could possibly start Week 1 against the 49ers.
Zimmer took the reins on that issue Monday, saying Edwards’ comment was misinterpreted.
Mike Zimmer said he didn't agree with what George Edwards said about trying to get Trae Waynes ready to start. Thinks he meant all players
— VikingUpdate.com (@VikingUpdate) August 31, 2015
If Waynes doesn’t start opposite of Xavier Rhodes, the job will probably wind up in the hands of 37-year-old Terence Newman.
Zimmer did agree that Waynes’ performance against the Cowboys on Saturday was his best game of the preseason, according Master Tesfatsion of the Star Tribune.
Trae Waynes with great coverage on Terrance Williams' go route https://t.co/Qj8sKFJKhl
— Krauser (@Krauserrific) August 30, 2015
Trae Waynes (ultimately no impact) missed tackle. Good instinct to drive on screen, though. pic.twitter.com/O1hbElSE1w
— Arif Hasan, but NFL 🏈 (@ArifHasanNFL) August 30, 2015
Per Rhodes, in a conversation with the Star Tribune, the biggest challenge for Waynes has been keeping his hands off receivers after five yards. In college, defensive backs are allowed to chip at receivers more than they are in the NFL.
Waynes has one more preseason game and two weeks of practice to earn the starting job.
