NFL players are amazing athletes. They run through workout routines that would make the average mortal cry uncle after three minutes.

So bravo to the LAPD for catching up to Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen, a former USC star who police allege ran from them during a traffic stop in South L.A. Monday afternoon.

Donuts and coffee? More like wind sprints and Gatorade for the boys in blue. And Griffen even reportedly palmed a cop's groin, so let's just give the LAPD an extra point for that, er, grab.

Police said they had to employ a Taser to stop the footballer.

The 4 p.m. traffic stop happened near 30th and Hoover streets in University Park, which is just a stone's through from Griffen's alma mater, said LAPD Officer Karen Rayner. She added:

“While conducting their investigation, he became uncooperative and tried to run from officers. When officers caught up to him and a struggle ensued, he assaulted one of the officers and a Taser was used to subdue him and take him into custody.''

The pro was arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer.

Here's the real question: Why couldn't a well-paid NFL pro outrun police? They say you can't beat a radio, but still … the Vikings have to be wondering how their player didn't shame the LAPD instead of, as it appears, the other way around.

-With reporting from City News Service. Got news? Email us. Follow us on Twitter, too: @dennisjromero.

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