 Adrian
Peterson
Running Back,
Oklahoma
Height: 6'2" | Weight: 218
Positives:
Adrian Peterson exploded onto the college football scene
as a true freshman in 2004, finishing second in Heisman
voting. Since then, he has continued to prove himself
as one of the most dynamic players in the country, rushing
for an incredible 132 yards per game. Indeed, Peterson
looks like the quintessential franchise back. He is
a physical specimen with excellent size, strength and
speed. He has the ability to run both inside and outside
with equal effectiveness. He is a great tackle breaker
who is very difficult to bring down. For all his power,
he's also an excellent athlete with great acceleration
and change of direction ability. He has a smooth, sliding
running style that almost looks like he's on ice. His
vision and instincts are those of a Running Back with
twice his experience. As a pass blocker, he gives good
effort and should improve with coaching.
Negatives:
Easily the biggest question about Peterson is his durability.
He battled various injuries during his sophomore season
and played in only seven games as a junior due to a
broken collarbone. With his tall frame, there is concern
that he may absorb too much punishment and struggle
to stay healthy. There are also questions about his
ability to function as a receiver out of the backfield,
as he was rarely used in that capacity at Oklahoma.
Overall:
Despite his injuries, which are varied and do not appear
to have any lingering effects, Peterson is a bona-fide
blue chip prospect. He should have an instant impact
in the N.F.L. and, by April, he may have the highest
grade of any player in the draft.
NFL
Comparison - Larry
Johnson, Kansas City Chiefs
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