I was talking to someone today about the make up of the Vikings roster, and our relative age compared to those players.I did a little research on the topic (reflection, really). I graduated in 2005, so theoretically, I would have entered the draft that year, if I was a professional athlete.
The top player in the draft was Alex Smith, and the debate was between him and Aaron Rodgers. Both are in the primes of their career right now, though they each took somewhat circuitous routes to get there. Other QBs still in the league, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Dan Orlovsky, and Kyle Orton are all still almost contributing.
Wide receivers and tight ends, if they were good enough to stick, are still doing all right. Take a look at these names: Heath Miller, Roddy White, Vincent Jackson and even Braylon Edwards, who is talented enough still to be disappointing.
Basically, if you were good enough to get in the league and stick at a skill position, you are in your prime around year 7. That is, unless you are a running back. Ah yes, the running backs. Remember them? This was a running back heavy draft. Take a look at these names: Ronnie Brown, Cedric Benson, Cadillac Williams, Frank Gore, Marion Barber and Darren Sproles. 2 of them have retired, 2 of them are likely in their final days and only one of them, Sproles, looks as spry as he has ever looked.
This is a good lesson for all you little kids. Let someone else try out for running back. There’s no shame in being the tight end.
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