6 running backs the Vikings could select in the 2021 NFL Draft
By Luke Parrish
Pooka Williams (Kansas)
Measurements:
- Height: 5-foot-10 | Weight: 170 pounds
2019 Stats (opted out in 2020):
- 1,061 rushing yards (5.2 ypc)
- 27 catches, 214 receiving yards
- 5 total TDs (3 rushing/2 receiving)
Pooka Williams opted out midway through the 2020 season after coming off a very strong showing in 2019. He posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2018 and 2019, but he was not having much success as a junior last season. He also had 14 total touchdowns in his first two years, in addition to being a factor as a runner and receiver.
Williams caught 60 passes in two seasons and he racked up over 500 yards out of the air with four receiving touchdowns. He is a third-down back that makes sense for the Vikings as a slight guy with speed and receiving ability.
Williams keeps his feet churning in the phone booth while also seeking contact as an undersized back. He fights for every single yard and he uses his quickness to remove tacklers from the frame before cutting up the field. His lack of size and strength hurts him against defenders up front, but that will not discourage him from fighting for every inch.
There is a concern with Williams’ off-field history that features an arrest and suspension for a domestic altercation. That will certainly be a big part of the Vikings’ evaluation process and he has to make a great impression in meetings if he wants a shot.