2014 NFL Draft Profile: Scott Crichton, DE Oregon State

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.  He shows excellent anticipation and plays smart football.  He has a assortment of power moves to get past even the most skilled offensive tackles.  This could be even more devastating in a 3-4 defense when he can rush the edge.   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

•  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.  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.