Vikings CB Mekhi Blackmon Eyes Big Comeback After Injury-Shortened Season
Minnesota Vikings cornerback Mekhi Blackmon is ready to bounce back after a knee injury derailed his second NFL season. Less than six months after suffering a torn ACL during training camp, the 2023 third-round pick is back on the practice field and eager to prove himself as a key player in the Vikings’ secondary.
“I feel real good,” Blackmon shared. “I’ve been running and stuff. Kind of get sick of this rehab. … I guess my time is getting closer though, so that’s fun.”
Blackmon’s injury came during a 7-on-7 passing drill in the first practice of training camp, cutting short what many expected to be a breakout year for the promising young cornerback. Despite spending most of the Vikings’ 14-4 season on the sidelines, Blackmon remained committed to his recovery and stayed close to his team.
“It’s not the same when you’re watching on the outside looking in,” Blackmon admitted. “But I hope a lot of these guys come back. I built a lot of relationships with them even before I got hurt. A lot of these guys have said they wish they could play with me this year as well.”
As a rookie in 2023, Blackmon quickly turned heads with his strong coverage skills, deflecting eight passes in 15 games and establishing himself as one of the Vikings’ more reliable defensive backs. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores had high expectations for Blackmon before the injury, stating, “I was expecting to see a better version of him when he returns.”
The Vikings secondary underwent significant changes after Blackmon’s injury, signing five defensive backs, including veterans Stephon Gilmore, Byron Murphy Jr., and Shaq Griffin. Gilmore, who started 15 games, played a pivotal role in the Vikings’ NFL-leading 24 interceptions.
Although Blackmon couldn’t contribute on the field, his teammates kept him close and motivated throughout his recovery. Now, as he works through the final stages of rehab, the 24-year-old cornerback is determined to reclaim his place and make an impact in 2025.
Whether or not the Vikings retain free agents like Murphy, Gilmore, and Griffin this offseason, Blackmon’s return adds depth and potential to a unit that is already one of the league’s best. The team is banking on Blackmon to take the next step, and he’s ready for the challenge.
