Green Bay Packers backfield competition heating up

Aug 13, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Hundley (7) hands off the ball to running back John Crockett (38) against the New England Patriots during the second half in a preseason NFL football game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

John Crockett  –  6’0″, 217 pounds
Preseason Week 1:
10 rushes, 26 yards
1 reception, 10 yards, 1 TD

The former North Dakota State superstar, nicknamed “Taz” for his all-movement, all-the-time running style, is a young player I’ve had my eye on since day three of the draft. After rushing for 1,000 yards in three straight seasons in college, including a whopping 1,994 in 2014, Crockett comes from a program that has won four consecutive NCAA Division 1 Football Championships.

In Crockett, the Packers have the potential for a three-down running back that could play a starting role if necessary. That scenario would be far from ideal, of course, but his skill set is well-rounded enough to allow for that should the unlikely need arise. With an explosive 6’0″, 217 pound frame, Crockett has shown the potential patience to identify running lanes and enter the second level through camp.

His first look in live action was a mixed bag, though, with an over-eager Crockett failing to launch in the ground game. This did highlight his questionable running strength, which could limit his ability to break tackles and extend runs at the pro level. Crockett rushed the ball 10 times for 26 yards, but did make an impact receiving out of the backfield.

With Brett Hundley under centre in the fourth quarter, Crockett ran a wheel route to the right pylon from the 10-yard line, adjusting well to a back shoulder throw and scampering in for a touchdown. The skill is all there with Crockett, but it’s a matter of health and production. He’ll get a long look over the rest of the preseason, but even if he’s unable to beat out Neal, I’d like to see Green Bay attempt to stash him on the practice squad.

Next: Could another UDFA thump their way in?