Toby Gerhart: “I Can Come In And Be A Dominant Guy”

Dec 22, 2013; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Toby Gerhart (32) rushes the ball during pre game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. Cincinnati Bengals beat the Minnesota Vikings by the score of 42-14. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowksi-USA TODAY Sports

It hasn’t been too long since Toby Gerhart was a member of the Minnesota Vikings.  He was a second round draft pick by Minnesota back in the 2010 NFL Draft.  He was taken to be a solid complement to the running game of Adrian Peterson.

Sadly, Gerhart has moved on from the Vikings.  He signed on with the Jacksonville Jaguars this offseason.  He has some big shoes to fill there after the departure of Maurice Jones-Drew to Oakland, but Gerhart will join former Vikings running back Jordan Todman to form an interesting combination of running backs for the Jaguars.  It seems as though Toby might not want to split carries anymore though, after having to take the scraps from Adrian Peterson in the past.

Gerhart spoke with the Florida Times-Union about his opportunity in Jacksonville:

"“I had the skill set to be a starter from the onset, but I was playing behind one of the best in the game. I’ve gotten comfortable with the speed of the game, but don’t have the wear and tear on my body of someone carrying it 250 times a year. I think I’m in a unique situation. Even though it’s my fifth year in the league, I can come in and be a dominant guy. I’m ready for my shot now.”"

Although Gerhart had some good moments in Minnesota, it is easy to be skeptical about his ability to be a feature back in the NFL.  Here are his career NFL stats:

Dec 30, 2012; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Toby Gerhart (32) against the Green Bay Packers at the Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Packers 37-34. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

276 carries

1,305 rushing yards

4.7 yards per rush

5 rushing touchdowns

77 catches

600 receiving yards

3 receiving touchdowns

7 fumbles

6 fumbles lost

What do you think of Toby Gerhart’s future with Jacksonville?