Stefon Diggs: The Vikings’ Rising Star
Most Vikings fans had little expectation that Stefon Diggs would make the impact he did last season. He was drafted in the fifth round and by that point most fans have usually lost interest in the draft.
The Vikings organization found a diamond in the rough in the 2015 NFL Draft. It’s hard to believe Diggs was a healthy scratch to start the season. The Maryland native tore onto the scene partway through his rookie year.
AROUND COVER32
2016 Preview: A look ahead at the AFC North
Power Rankings: Ranking the top five NFL broadcasters
NFL: Five year running back rankings
Big Money: The five most expensive NFL games of 2016
Diggs’ first game came in week four against the Denver Broncos. From that point on, he didn’t look back. Diggs implanted himself as the number one wide receiver on the Minnesota Vikings’ offense and exhibited dangerous playmaking abilities in the process.
Diggs can attack the defense in a variety of ways. The versatile wideout can stretch the field with his speed, but can also make plays underneath. His athleticism and elusiveness allow him to avoid tacklers and turn short gains into big plays.
Diggs is by far the best route runner the Vikings have on the roster. He gets in and out of breaks quickly and accelerates well to create separation.
What makes him so valuable? His athleticism isn’t his only asset. Diggs has a killer instinct on the field and the mentality that puts him one step ahead. He wants the ball in his hands every play. In crunch time he becomes a different player. He makes plays for his quarterback when it’s needed most – much like we saw last year in the game tying catch and run touchdown at Chicago.
Diggs fits the winning culture the Vikings are trying to build. He has a bright future ahead and the addition of Laquon Treadwell can only help him progress and further develop his abilities. He is a rising star and will be a vital piece to the Vikings going forward.
Austin Erwin writes for cover32 and covers the Minnesota Vikings. He can be followed on Twitter @austin_erwin
The post Stefon Diggs: The Vikings’ Rising Star appeared first on Cover32.
