National Football Post reports that the Vikings were among five teams who recently worked out North Dakota State running back John Crockett.
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The projected late-round draft pick also reportedly had private work outs with the Falcons, Texans, Titans and Jaguars.
The 6-0, 217-pound Crockett was a top performer at the combine in the vertical jump (40 inches) and broad jump (125 inches) and ran a 4.62 40.
Scouts like Crockett’s non-stop energy – every one of them mentions his nickname “Taz” after the whirlwind Tasmanian Devil – and his experience as a pro-style runner at NDSU.
Scouts are not so high on Crockett’s high pad level which they say could cause him to take a lot of punishment at the next level.
NFL.com thinks he could be a solid #2 on Sundays:
"Patient, pro-style runner with the potential to be a full-time backup and play on all three downs if asked. Play strength is below average for the position, but he’s a creative runner who can find yards on his own and catch the ball out of the backfield."
CBSSports.com refers to Crockett as “a broke man’s Eddie George.” National Football Post notes his all-around skill set:
"As a receiver, he has good hands and is able to get open on the shorter routes. He is willing as a blocker but will need technique work. I see Crockett as a tough, physical inside runner and a reliable receiver. He is similar in style of play to Cleveland’s Terrance West. Like most small school players, he will need a period of adjustment, but he can become a solid NFL rotational back."
Crockett has “complementary back” written all over him. The Vikings may or may not have a big need for more running back depth come draft day, depending on what happens with Adrian Peterson in the coming days.
Crockett is the fifth draft prospect at running back known to have worked out for the Vikings this year. The others are Jay Ajayi, David Cobb, David Johnson and Zach Zenner.
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