Fantasy Football's Top 10 Running Backs

For all the Fantasy Football addicts out there, this is an extensive analysis of the ten best running backs in the league today. Unlike most breakdowns that look at last year's stats to determine how a player will be this year, this ranking takes into consideration much more. Last year's stats for QB's, WR's, O-Line, and Opposing defenses are all looked at in determining how a player will perform in the upcoming season.

10. Washington Redskins—Clinton Portis

Portis is a powerful back that can pick up a lot of yards. Last year he totaled 1487 yards and nine TDs. He is a key asset to a team and could be a great pick for the unfortunate people who have late picks or put off RBs until later rounds.
Bye: Week Eight

9. Philedelphia Eagles—Brian Westbrook

Westbrook missed two games last year but managed 936 yards and nine TDs. He will be out this preseason but should be ready to go for the regular season. Injuries kept him down last year and did not allow him to excel. He should do fine this year, but be sure to have a backup if he falls through.
Bye: Week Four

8. Houston Texans—Steve Slaton

Not as widely known as some of the other backs, Slaton can be taken in the second or third round of most small leagues. He had 1282 yards and scored nine TDs last year, making him a respectable RB for any team. He is a young back, at 23 years old and could prove valuable in keeper leagues.
Bye: Week Ten

7. Tennesee Titans—Chris Johnson

Entering his second year in the NFL, Johnson has already made an impression by gathering 1228 yards and nine TDs last year. In his second year, Johnson is poised to have another big year. The only concern is a sophomore slump, but he looks to do just fine. Perhaps a steal in the second round of a smaller Fantasy League?
Bye: Week Seven

6. St. Louis Rams—Steven Jackson

Steven Jackson has the potential to be one of the top three backs in the NFL today. Unfortunately, he is on the Rams, a struggling organization that is lacking on a lot of fronts. They are slowly improving, and should give Jackson a chance. Despite missing four games last year, he managed 1042 yards and seven TDs. Had he played 16 games, he would have had around 1390 yards and an extra two TDs. He may be on a weak team, but he is a solid player and a great pick to add to your team.
Bye: Week Nine

5. Chicago Bears—Matt Forte

Last year Matt Forte was the driving force of the Chicago Bears. This year, with a better line and respectable passing game the run game looks better than ever in the Windy City. He makes the top five because of his potential with the help of the new additions. Forte totaled 1238yds and eight TDs last year.
Bye: Week Five

4. San Diego Chargers—LaDainian Tomlinson

Once regarded as the best RB in the league, future hall of famer LT is still one of the best. Age has taken a step off his game, only a tiny step though. 11 TDs and 1110 yards are very respectable stats. Still a great pick if you can get him.
Bye; Week Five

3. Jacksonville Jaguars—Maurice Jones-Drew

MJD is a top caliber, top five RB, no matter whose ranking you look at. He had 824 yards last season, but looks to improve more this year. Despite not being a high yardage back, he totaled 12 TDs. He should have a good number this year too. MJD is a great option to go with.
Bye: Week Seven

2. Atlanta Falcons—Michael Turner

There is little in the way to keep Turner from getting most of the carries. 1699 yards last year is amazing. But it doesn't stop there; he also scored a massive 17 TDs. Lucky for those who took him last year. He won't have quite the same year this year though. Not only is it a difficult feat to repeat, teams now know to strategize against him. The great pass game will open up the run game a lot.
Bye: Week 4

1. Minnesota Vikings—Adrian Peterson

1760 yards and 10 TDs makes Peterson the must have for any team. He is by far the best RB in the league. The one downside to last year was his league high nine fumbles. However, he has commented on this and seems positive that he can cut those down to just a couple. If you get the chance, be sure to take him. He looks to have another great year as a Viking.
Bye: Week 9