With a lot of talk regarding the Minnesota Vikings being focused on the current situation with Adrian Peterson and the recent crop of draft picks, it’s easy to overlook some of the other young players on the team that are hoping to make an impact during the team’s 2015 season.
Aug 8, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Scott Crichton (95) against the Oakland Raiders at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Raiders 10-6. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
One of those guys that is under the radar is 2014 third round draft pick from Oregon State, Scott Crichton.
Last year, Crichton didn’t see a lot of action. He seemed to have some difficulty adjusting to the Vikings defense and was also still working on his degree from Oregon State. Now that he has graduated, the defensive end has been able to focus on football and hopes to make an impact on the team.
Crichton’s plate might have been a little full for him mentally, but he’s ready to take on more responsibility in the Vikings defense. According to a statement from Scott Crichton from an article on Vikings.com, he is getting some reps and learning.
"“Last year I kind of felt like I was trying to catch up,” Crichton said. “Now, I’m with the guys and learning, but the key thing is I’m getting a lot of reps, and that’s the most important thing.”"
Minnesota Vikings general manager Rick Spielman had some praise for Scott Crichton’s development. Here is what he said:
"“One guy that’s starting to pop out right now is Scott Crichton. The difference in what we’ve seen so far in year one to year two is tremendous. We’re very excited about all these young guys, but we think Scott is going to have a very productive year for us too, with the way he’s shown so far.”"
Hopefully, Scott Crichton can take the next step toward being a solid rotational player and possibly a situation pass rusher. With the Vikings having two starting caliber defensive ends like Everson Griffen and Brian Robison, the remainder of the roster is a lot of young, talented players fighting for playing time. Guys like Danielle Hunter and Caesar Rayford will be challenging Crichton.
Focused and ready, Crichton could make a splash this year if he can prove to the team that he can be an effective player. And for the Vikings sake, hopefully he’ll be ready sooner instead of later.
Next: Minnesota Vikings 2015 Game By Game Previews
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