Whether they are in a tandem or not, running backs are still going to dominate the top of the draft board in fantasy football leagues.
If you’re lucky enough to be in the one of top spots, the decision is much easier than when you get into the back half of the draft. As you look at this list, realize that there are several drops in overall talent when you hit certain levels.
Also, this year more than any other, there are going to be players taken in the first round that aren’t running backs. They’re going to go early, so be prepared for that to happen as well.
So, here's what the ‘Table sees as the top backs. And, no, the beer goggles were not on for this one.
1. LaDainian Tomlinson
Even in a bad year, he still was one of the top fantasy performers. You can count on him for 20 touchdowns, in some form, and 1,500 yards.
Just pencil it in every year. Even better, he’s been durable. Make sure you draft his handcuff, once they figure out who that is.
2. Adrian Peterson
Not going to lie, this doesn’t feel quite right. Peterson is coming off a stellar rookie campaign, but is basically without a quarterback. He’s going to be counted on to provide a major bulk of the offense and defenses will be keying on him to make the Vikings throw. Not a great combination.
3. Brian Westbrook
The 'Table can't get past putting Brian Westbrook in the three spot. Westbrook has had his own share of injury issues, and you can count on being held hostage up until kickoff at least once this season. He’s still the best combo back in terms of running and pass-catching in the league.
4. Steven Jackson
He’s got some competition in terms of rookies behind him, but Jackson should be just as solid this year. It was probably unfair last year to peg him as the number two pick, but that was almost by default. Jackson still fits the bill as an every-down back that will be required to carry the load.
5. Joseph Addai
Another every-down back that will thrive in Indy because of the need for defenses to stop Peyton Manning. Addai has no injury history in his past that should concern you and is probably the “safest” of the top-five backs.
6. Frank Gore
This is where it gets tricky. Gore is the horse in San Francisco, but he has very few weapons to help him out.
7. Marshawn Lynch
3 comments Last one added 11 months ago — Leave a Comment
Chris Hester 11 months ago
Calling All Bleacher Report "Fantasy Experts"
Are you interested in joining a Bleacher Report football league on RotoHog? If so, please email me at wrongarm300@yahoo.com. I am trying to get as many Bleacher Report writers as possible so if you know anyone else that may be interested, have them contact me as well!! Let's make this huge and represent the Bleacher!!
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Jacob Sloan 11 months ago
Nice list. I like Jonathan Stewart to be the best rookie, and I'd say Chris Johnson in Tennessee has a good chance of being a sleeper-like RB value this year.
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gregory caldarella 11 months ago
interesting to see willie parker still get a lot of love from you...he hasn't really been ranked any where near 12 in most rankings I have come across so far...but I do believe mendenhall's potential role is a bit overexagerrated for this year at least.
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