John Krasinski Close to Being Cast as Captain America

'The Office' star Jim Halpert may be a simple, laid back guy, but the actor who portrays him probably will have his work cut out for him. According to Fox News' entertainment blog, Fox 411, John Krasinski is very close to being cast as Marvel's greatest Avenger, Captain America.

Krasinski has reportedly read for the role several times since the beginning of the year-- apparently even opposite actresses trying for the role of the romantic interest-- and has become a favorite among key decision-makers over at the studio.

However, fans of the hero are less than enthused about the rumors of Krasinski's potential casting-- even fans who actually work for these casting directors:

"It's a surprise and we are bracing ourselves for 'that guy from The Office' to land Captain America. They are not really looking at the other guys, so it's time to get ready to work with him," said a source.

Aside from his apparent talent in the role of Steve Rogers, his casting would also save the studio some money considering Krasinski doesn't come with a high price. Also, he would have to appear in multiple films, including the team up film The Avengers.

The Avengers would include many of the big names from Marvel's other films, including Robert Downey Jr., Don Cheadle, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Samuel L. Jackson, and, possibly, Edward Norton.

Doubt remains, however, whether Krasinski has the chops to handle the role of "The First Avenger." The 2011 film will be a World War II period piece that covers the story of how Steve Rogers became Captain America through the super soldier project hinted at in 2008's The Incredible Hulk film.

Krasinski will definitely need to get into some kind of similar program if he wants to differentiate Rogers from the lanky prankster, Jim Halpert.