Minnesota Vikings: Five players whose stock is on the rise
By Dan Zinski
Aug 22, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end Rhett Ellison (85) jumps over a defender in the first quarter against the Oakland Raiders at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
4. Rhett Ellison
The unsung hero in Adrian Peterson’s huge day vs. San Diego was Rhett Ellison.
Not only did Ellison have a big day blocking as a tight end, he also helped out by lead-blocking for Peterson from the fullback position.
It was a small tweak but it made a big difference.
Frankly, Zach Line was not getting it done as a lead blocker. Line may have some value as a short-yardage back – two touchdowns in two games proves that – but he’s no Jerome Felton when it comes to clearing out defenders for Peterson.
Here Ellison shows what he can do when lined up in the off-set I formation. Ellison motions into position and absolutely stops his man, helping open up a lane for Peterson.
It’s not pretty but Ellison just puts his head down and collides with the defender, guaranteeing that he has no shot to get in Peterson’s way.
That kind of gritty, physical play is what makes a player like Ellison endearing to an offensive coordinator like Norv Turner.
You want to talk about a guy who is willing to do the dirty work? Rhett Ellison is your man.