Free agent profile: Cornerback Xavier Rhodes

It’s no secret the Denver Broncos are in need of cornerbacks this offseason, so a good share of our free agent reviews are going to be dedicated to that position group. For today, let’s talk about former Minnesota Vikings and Indianapolis Colts cornerback, Xavier Rhodes.

Player Profile

Height: 6-1
Weight: 218 pounds
Age: 30 years old
Experience: 9 seasons

Why it makes sense

Rhodes showed last year that he could be a quality starter even as he crossed the age 30 threshold. He signed a one-year deal with the Colts and went on to notch 12 pass breakups and allowed just 51.3% completion rate in coverage in 2020. He also had two interceptions with one of those returned for a touchdown.

If the Broncos were to bring in Rhodes, they should still consider drafting a guy early. Having that veteran presence among such a young position group would be a good thing.

Why it doesn’t make sense

The biggest concern here is consistency. I took a quick peek over at his PFF grades over his career and while we should take those grades with a grain of salt it does show that he has struggled to maintain a high level of play. His play took a serious dip in 2018 and 2019, which led to his release by the Vikings. So the big question with Rhodes is whether or not he is back to form or will 2020 turn out to be an aberration?

Final Thoughts

It all comes down to cost. If the Broncos can get into the discussion with Rhodes at a contract level that doesn’t break the bank then I think they should give it a try.

What do you think Broncos Country?