After graduation in 1982, Minnifield joined the Chicago Blitz (later the Arizona Wranglers) of the USFL.

He successfully sued the Wranglers for the right to move to the NFL, and signed as a free agent with the Browns in 1984.

Minnifield became a fixture at cornerback for Cleveland and was named to the Pro Bowl four straight years from 1986 to 1989.

Known for his aggressive bump-and-run coverage and hard hitting style, he was named to the NFL 1980s All-Decade Team as selected by voters of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

He and fellow cornerback Hanford Dixon named the Dawg Pound cheering section at Cleveland Stadium.