With Harrison Smith well established at free safety, the Minnesota Vikings had been searching for a solid strong safety to pair with him. Based on his performance so far this season, it looks like Robert Blanton is up to the task.
While Blanton’s +7.5 overall grade ranks 13th out of all safeties, it's his work against the run that has been the biggest boon for the Vikings, with his +5.5 run grade fifth-best among safeties (behind Smith in first place). Blanton’s 10% Run Stop Percentage while lining up within 8 yards of the line of scrimmage is eighth-best at the position, and with just four missed tackles, Blanton's 22.5 Tackling Efficiency is fifth-best. While he's at his best against the run, Blanton has also held his own in coverage with an average +0.8 coverage grade. He has allowed 13 completions for 226 yards and one touchdown, with one interception and one batted pass to his credit, conceding a respectable 0.52 Yards per Cover Snap.
Robert Blanton has contributed to the Vikings defensive improvements this year, giving the team a safety pairing they can feel comfortable with moving forward.
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