Cornerback Cameron Dantzler became an integral part of the Memphis Showboats’ successful defensive rebuild under DC Jarren Horton. Now, he hopes to recreate last year’s success with the Louisville Kings.
A Bit Of NFL History
The former Mississippi State Bulldog was a third-round pick of the Minnesota Vikings in the 2020 NFL Draft. Before becoming one of the standout players in Horton’s defense, Dantzler had an impressive rookie campaign with the Vikings. Named the starting cornerback out of training camp, he recorded four tackles in his NFL debut. In Week 8, playing against the Green Bay Packers, Dantzler suffered what was feared to be a serious neck injury while attempting to tackle wide receiver Equanimeous St. Brown.
Carted off the field, he was taken to a nearby hospital, where it was determined he had suffered a concussion, causing him to miss time that season. Appearing in 11 games, Dantzler recorded 46 tackles, two interceptions, four pass defenses, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Dantzler’s rookie performance was strong enough to earn him a spot on the 2020 PFWA All-Rookie Team.
Released by the Vikings in March of 2023, Dantzler briefly spent time with other NFL teams. During his time in the NFL, he appeared in 26 games and recorded 149 total tackles (125 solo), 3 interceptions, 17 pass deflections, one forced fumble, and 2 fumble recoveries.
Making An Impact With The Memphis Showboats
Despite missing the first four games recovering from a preseason injury, once recovered, Dantzler made an immediate impact, recording 14 solo tackles, one interception, a pass defense, and a forced fumble.
Dantzler’s interception was a stunning pick-six that he returned 43 yards against the San Antonio Brahmas. Somersaulting into the end zone, the Showboats took the lead. The game ended with a thrilling 24-22 overtime win for Memphis.
A New Chapter Starts With The Louisville Kings
As he transitions to Jamie Sharper’s defense with the Kings, Danztler was asked about the differences he sees this year versus playing under Horton a year ago. According to Dantzler, there are differences between how the two defensive coordinators approach the game. Stating that Horton “mixed things up for us, we played all too different coverages, a lot of different looks.” However, under Sharper, the defense is more “old school.” Chuckling, he explained, “The playbook this year is way easier than last year, I’ll say that.”
Acknowledging that last Thursday was cutdown day, he sympathized with the tough task the coaches faced in whittling down the roster. “All those guys can play. I love the energy from each and every one of those guys on defense, and the offense as well. So, the coaches have a tough decision.“
Dantzler was asked, when playing against the offense in practice, who stood out to him. He was full of praise for several of his teammates. “Jonathan Allen is always one of those guys. That guy’s gonna stand out.”
Singling out “Lucky” (Jackson) as well, he also praised (Isaiah) Winstead, stating,” He’s been pretty good this training camp. And our quarterback’s been, you know.. testing us.. You know? Making good decisions.” However, Dantzler concluded confidently, “But, I just feel like on the defensive side of the ball, we have it. We have it, for sure.”
Fans will have a chance to see firsthand what Dantzler and the Kings' defense look like when the Kings host the UFL season opener this coming Friday, March 27, at 8:00 p.m against the Birmingham Stallions.
The game will be televised on "FOX UFL Friday." Tickets are still available for the Lynn Family Stadium kickoff event featuring a halftime performance by country artist Russell Dickerson.