(Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
(Above: Another huge season for Thomas Jones?)
In continuation of my early fantasy overview, I pick up at the running back spot where I left off at the quarterback position; still excited about the fantasy season, but bewildered over all the possibilities that still remain.
There are now more RBBC in NFL backfields than ever, and in Denver, we also have to worry about Peyton Hillis stealing touches from rookie Knowshon Moreno.
That's why there's a little thing called handcuffs, baby.
Let it be known—these are not rankings, but merely a close look at the top runners for each team, as well as some analysis toward their 2009 season.
New England Patriots—Fred Taylor, Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk, Laurence Maroney
It is anyone's guess in log-jam city, a.k.a., New England's backfield.
Former first rounder Laurence Maroney returns at near full health, but how much will he play? As it stands, ex-Jacksonville back Fred Taylor and Sammy Morris seem to be the front-runners, with third-down back Kevin Faulk certainly to be in the mix.
Three 30+ year-old backs sharing the ball. Not exactly the usual recipe for success in a ground attack, but who are we to question Bill Belichick?
New York Jets—Thomas Jones, Leon Washington, Shonn Greene
Thomas Jones returns after a huge season, but after going from one touchdown to 13, which version will we get?
Jones may have fallen out of love with Brett Favre at the end of last season, but if he sticks in New York, he'll sorely miss him.
Leon Washington figures to get more touches, both out of the backfield and as a receiver, while also adding some spice as a returner.
There is quiet talk that Jones and Washington's contract woes could have either one of them (or both) sent packing, which would quickly make rookie Shonn Greene a hot commodity.
Buffalo Bills—Marshawn Lynch, Fred Jackson, Dominic Rhodes
Lynch is currently facing a three-game suspension, but an appeal has a small chance at the suspension either being reduced or erased altogether.
Regardless, Fred Jackson will be used this year because he's too good not to be.
Newly signed Rhodes, however, probably won't sniff too much action as a runner, at least not after the first three weeks, barring an unforeseen injury. He should have a minimal impact as a receiver, though, and could be used sparingly on third downs.
Miami Dolphins—Ronnie Brown, Ricky Williams, Patrick Cobbs
Because Ricky Williams is still a fairly effective back, it figures to be another year of splitting carries between Williams and Ronnie Brown, as well as more sexy additions to the "wildcat" package.
Miami's style of offense means big things for Ronnie Brown if he can stay healthy, and locks in Williams for solid yardage production, as well as the opportunity for five to eight touchdowns.
Patrick Cobbs probably won't be able to lock down any major role, but considering how diverse the Dolphins' offense is, he should be able to make an impact catching passes out of the backfield.
Pittsburgh Steelers—Willie Parker, Rashard Mendenhall, Mewelde Moore
The Steelers face a very promising problem: They have three guys they wouldn't be afraid starting the season with as their primary back.
While that gives them an A for depth and versatility, that means hell for fantasy owners.
Regardless, Parker should be the stud, while Mendenhall and Moore pick away at the scraps and compete for third-down duty.
Cincinnati Bengals—Cedric Benson, Brian Leonard, Kenny Watson
Cedric Benson continues his quest to prove last season's late run wasn't a fluke, and that he is still deserving of that fourth overall selection.
While the latter can't be proven this season, I'm also still not sold that he's the right back for the Bengals.
Cincy obtained Brian Leonard from the Rams for a reason, and it's becoming clear that it wasn't to waste him at fullback. He's younger and more versatile than Kenny Watson, so he has the jump-start for the third-down back role, and could end the season with some solid production.
Cleveland Browns—Jamal Lewis, Jerome Harrison
Lewis is getting older and slowing down a bit, but as long as he can plow into people and move the chains, he'll remain the starter.
Harrison is a good backup that is eager to get his shot. Whether or not Lewis goes down to injury, Harrison is likely to get some solid touches as their top change-of-pace back.
Baltimore Ravens—Ray Rice, Willis McGahee, LeRon McClain
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