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Monday, March 23, 2009
Bengals enamored with BYU fullback
The Cincinnati Bengals signed Minnesota Vikings restricted free-agent fullback Naufahu Tahi to a one year offer sheet on Friday, but could have a backup plan should the Vikings decide to match their offer.
BYU running back/fullback Fui Vakapuna is scheduled to visit the Bengals a week before the draft. Get this, Vakapuna is the cousin of Tahi and both could end up wearing tiger stripes if the stars align right.
The 5-foot-11, 244-pound Vakapuna opened some eyes at the school’s pro day March 11. He ran a 4.68 in the 40-yard dash; posted a 34-inch vertical and knocked out 29 reps on the bench press. Scouts were very impressed with his workout.
Bengals running backs coach Jim Anderson was in attendance at the pro day and worked with Vakapuna exclusively on some individual drills afterwards. The way I hear it, Coach Anderson was blown away by the fullback’s performance.
Vakapuna rushed 263 yards and three touchdowns this past season. He averaged 4.9 yards per carry while toting the rock for the BYU Cougars. He’s a bruising runner with good explosion and power - ideal for short-yard situations. He has all the physical attributes to contribute as a running back, fullback and special teamer.
Vakapuna will need to continue to improve on his blocking skills at the next level. He spent a lot of time in his career flip flopping from running back to fullback in BYU’s offense. However, Vakapuna did spend his entire senior campaign playing fullback and excelled. He is now appearing on a number of team’s radar.
Vakapuna said that he is excited about his trip to Cincinnati and would love to play with his cousin Tahi and learn more about the game from him.
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