Sep 7, 2013; Corvallis, OR, USA; Oregon State Beavers defensive end Scott Crichton (95) pushes around Hawaii Warriors offensive linesman David Griffin (72) at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Scott Crichton is a defensive end from Oregon State that is drawing a lot of buzz recently.  Although he’s not the dynamic pass rusher that Jadeveon Clowney is, his scheme versatility is what makes him valuable.  Teams that run a 4-3 would be getting a tough player that fights his way into the backfield regularly.  However, teams that run a 3-4 could play him as an outside linebacker.
Any team that drafts him will get a player who is a solid tackler and good against the run. Â He shows excellent anticipation and plays smart football. Â He has a assortment of power moves to get past even the most skilled offensive tackles. Â This could be even more devastating in a 3-4 defense when he can rush the edge. Â Sadly, his speed could limit his effectiveness as as outside linebacker due to the time it could take to get to the quarterback.
Crichton’s strength and frame combined with his non-stop motor will make him a fantastic prospect in this year’s draft.  He always plays until the whistle and never seems to take a play off.  He could find his name called on day two or late in day one of the draft.
Here are his statistics over 3 years at Oregon State:
Sep 7, 2013; Corvallis, OR, USA; Oregon State Beavers defensive end Scott Crichton (95) before the game against the Hawaii Warriors at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
38 games played
100 solo tackles
165 solo tackles
51 tackles for a loss
22.5 sacks
9 passes defended
10 forced fumbles
Strengths
- Â Quick reaction time
- Strength
- Solid tackler
- High motor
- Never missed a game because of injury
Weaknesses
- Lacks elite speed
- Agility
- Flexibility
Fit For The Vikings
Minnesota already has a player much like Scott Chichton in Brian Robison. Â Plus, with the big contract to Everson Griffen and the signing of Corey Wooten, it might be difficult to find him anything better than a rotational role at defensive end.
My Take
Crichton is going to make some 4-3 team very happy at defensive end or 3-4 team happy with an outside linebacker.  Sadly, position is one that Minnesota isn’t going to make a priority in the draft.  They should pass on him with the first and second round selections.