Thread: Vikings Announce Addition of RBs Coach James Saxon

Vikings Announce Addition of RBs Coach James Saxon

http://www.vikings.com/news/article-1/Vikings-Announce-Addition-of-RBs-Coach-James-Saxon/0c68159b-3935-426b-aed2-88508a05ad09

The Vikings have made the following addition to their 2011 coaching staff:

James Saxon – RBs Coach

James Saxon brings 11 years of NFL coaching experience to the Vikings after spending the previous 3 seasons with the Miami Dolphins as their RBs coach. Saxon has guided 8 players over the past 10 seasons to the Pro Bowl, most recently Ronnie Brown in 2008. Saxon thrived in Kansas City helping Priest Holmes, Larry Johnson and Tony Richardson earn Pro Bowl honors a total of 7 times in 7 years. A 6th-round selection by the Chiefs in 1988, Saxon went on to play 8 seasons in the NFL with Kansas City, Miami and Philadelphia as a RB playing in 111 career games.

Interesting choice and a good background. After his time in Miami maybe they want to use AP in the Wildcat a bit more

I love the hires we have made in this offseason.

I think we are really moving toward and offense that is completely based around our workhorse ... the Dolphins have run well for years, hopefully he can teach our guys a thing or two.

2 days, and the post announcing our new RB coach only has 2 responses (well, 3 now)?? Wow, PPO...I know we lose posters after our season is done, but I figured this thread would be hopping. No opinions on this hire? Kudos, complaints...anything?

Personally, I think it's a good hire. The guy has good experience, and he's coached some stud RBs. I think this is good for not only AP, but also for Gerhardt. Just a hunch, but it's possible Bieniemy might not have been giving Toby his fair share of coaching, and focusing more on "his boy". Nothing solid to back that up, though...as I said, just a hunch. Saxon is a fresh face coming in, and now that AP seems to have his fumble-itis under control, maybe Gerhardt can get a little more coaching attention given to him.

Our RB's are fine. When you get to a certain age repitition is best, not much need for actual coaching.

I'd be inclined to agree with you in regards to AP...but Gerhardt is a different matter. His rookie year was somewhat underwhelming, but I wouldn't put him on "BUST" status, either. I think the addition of someone like Saxon could be just what he needs to help him reach his NFL potential.