While reading these, please remember that they are ranked based on skill. I did try to take into account which running back had the best O-line, other offensive playmakers, etc. These are not fantasy rankings, but rankings on pure ability, talent, and poise at the RB position.
1) LaDainian Tomlinson
The easiest pick on this list. LT led the league in rushing yards with 1,474 in 2007, and rushing TDs with 15. His credentials over the last two years solidify his value as a RB, and to some he is seen as the best running back of all time (a bit of a stretch in my opinion).
2) Brian Westbrook
Despite missing a game in 2007, B-West led the league in yards from scrimmage, with 2,104, and put a team on his back. Not only can he run between, and around, the tackles, but he is also an explosive receiving threat.
3) Willie Parker
Had Willie not gotten injured last year, he probably would have led the league in rushing yards. The Steelers are a hard-hitting, smash-mouth football team, and Willie Parker is not only that as well, but also fast around the edge and excells at catching the ball.
4) Adrian Peterson
The rookie sensation known as A.D. lit up the gridiron in 2007, setting the single-game rushing record with 296 yards against the Chargers. This year he predicted 2,000 yards. This might be a bit of stretch. Defenses know that Jackson can’t throw on them, so they will be putting eight or nine in the box. However, if Jackson can find his groove, then I believe so can A.D.
5) Joseph Addai
Addai complements Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, and that explosive Colts air attack so well, all the while racking up 1,072 rushing yards and 12 rushing TDs. He is only this high because of his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.
6) Steven Jackson
After Steven Jackson’s 2,500 all-purpose yard prediction in 2007, which predated the decimation of his O-line by injury, and which he followed up with 1,273 yards from scrimmage and only six total TDs, Jackson is ready to bounce back. St. Louis is reportedly ready to make their offense run through Jackson, so statistically he should be great again.
7) Edgerrin James
The Card’s RB may not be his old self statistically, but he is working with a far inferior O-line, which might explain his low yards per carry average of 3.8. He still managed to put up 1,222 yards and seven TDs last year.
8) Marion Barber
Marion breaks tackles like it’s his job, which it is. He not only made the Pro Bowl, but also while splitting time with Julius Jones still ran for 975 yards and 10 TDs.
9) Clinton Portis
Clinton Portis may not get the sort of numbers that he did when he was in Denver, but he bounced back nicely from his injury in 2006, and ran for 1,262 yards and 11 TDs in 2007. This probable hall-of-famer has a history of powerful running and making defenders miss, which earned him the No. 9 spot on my list.
10) Frank Gore
Frank Gore is San Francisco’s only offensive weapon, and defenses know it. Despite running behind a sub-par O-line, he still managed 1,102 rushing yards and five TDs.
Honorable Mention: Brandon Jacobs, Maurice Jones-Drew, Willis MaGahee, Larry Johnson
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