Xavier Rhodes has apologized after ESPN’s cameras caught him during an angry outburst on the sideline during Minnesota’s 37-30 loss to the Seahawks on Monday Night Football.
“I just want to start off by saying I apologize to the organization, my team, my family, how I reacted out on that field,” Rhodes said Wednesday. “That’s not the way I should carry myself, especially as a leader on this team. I apologize definitely to Coach (Mike) Zim(mer), and the things he’s taught me, I should never react that way towards him or towards my team period. I know my role, I need to play it better.”
Cameras caught Rhodes slamming his helmet on the ground after getting beat on a 60-yard touchdown pass from Russell Wilson to David Moore.
Xavier Rhodes showcasing how everyone feels watching Xavier Rhodes play football. #Vikings pic.twitter.com/PvxQkKF34X
— Nick Lewis 3️⃣7️⃣ (@NickLewis37) December 3, 2019
“I need to play better out on that field, eliminate the penalties and just do well. There’s a lot more football going on right now,” Rhodes continued. “We still have a great chance of making it to the playoffs and still have a chance to win our division. Right now I’m looking forward to doing that, helping my team day to day, minimize the penalties I have that’s going on each and every week and bettering myself.”
According to Pro Football Focus, Rhodes has been penalized 10 times and is ranked 10th in the NFL among cornerbacks with at least 250 snaps played.
“He’s a good kid. He’s got a smile on his face all the time comes out to practice and works hard. I have a ton of respect for him,” head coach Mike Zimmer said.
Rhodes and the Vikings will face third-string QB David Blough when the Lions visit U.S. Bank Stadium at noon Sunday.
