EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) - The veterans on the Minnesota Vikings defense are still significant contributors.

Antoine Winfield #26 and Josh Robinson #21 of the Minnesota Vikings
(Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images)
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Rookie Josh Robinson, who has the team's only interception, has provided an obvious upgrade at cornerback in the nickel package. Jasper Brinkley has taken over at middle linebacker without much trouble. Another first-time starter, Letroy Guion, has played well at nose tackle.

Then there's utility lineman Everson Griffen, emerging as a secret pass rushing weapon in his third season, and rookie strong safety Harrison Smith, who has given the Vikings the hard-hitting, smart, ball-hawking player they haven't had in years at that position.

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