NFL Draft 2012: Analyzing the Best Potential Undrafted Free-Agent Running Backs

The 2012 NFL Draft isn't too deep at the running back position like it is with cornerbacks, offensive linemen and wide receivers.

So, although there's a good chance of some solid talent not getting drafted in the backfield, it just makes for the following studs to stand out more as undrafted free agents.

After all, a reliable dual-back system provides an offense with much versatility and talented depth to be effective throughout a season.

Lance Dunbar, North Texas

This is a guy who's worthy of a draft pick but for some reason is going unnoticed. North Texas' Lance Dunbar gained 1,378 rushing yards as a sophomore, 1,553 as a junior and 1,115 as a senior.

Talk about consistency between the tackles and on the outside. Dunbar also totaled over 1,000 receiving yards in college. In addition, Dunbar accounted for 49 total touchdowns and an average of almost 1,700 total yards per season between 2009 and 2011.

Now, Dunbar obviously didn't face top-notch competition each week in the Sun Belt conference, but it's not like the Mean Green had all kinds of talent around him. With his ability to slam the trenches or bounce outside as well as be a reliable safety outlet, Dunbar will find a spot in the NFL.

He's got solid size a 5'9", 200 pounds, so assisting as a pass-blocker will benefit his receiving skills as a great third-down back.

Alfred Morris, Florida Atlantic

Much like Lance Dunbar, Florida Atlantic's Alfred Morris dominated the college ranks from his sophomore through senior campaign.

The man averaged 1,168 rushing yards his final three seasons and totaled 300 receiving yards and scored 31 career touchdowns.

One advantage Morris has on Dunbar, however, is that he's bigger at 5'11", 220 pounds and had even worse talent around him. In the pros, expect Morris to be limited as a short-yard situation back on any down.

With his size and proven consistency through college, Morris has the confidence to bowl over defenders and get the tough yards. He'll be extremely dangerous in the red zone, because having that Brahma Bull who can push forward or have the athleticism to leap over a pile frees up receivers one-on-one.

Hence, strategic advantage to the offense.

Adonis Thomas, Toledo

There are pros and cons to everything, and one disadvantage Adonis Thomas has when compared to other potential undrafted free agents is that he only has two dominant seasons under his belt (2010 and 2011). That also means, though, that he's hungry for more production and isn't finished just yet.

That said, Thomas gained 2,169 rushing and 722 receiving yards in two seasons while also scoring 23 touchdowns.

More of a speed back compared to Dunbar and Morris, Thomas comes in at 5'10", 185 pounds and is an ideal third-down back for screens, check downs and draws.

Thomas would also make for a read-option/play-action fake running back from the shotgun formation as his quickness will force a defense to widen its front seven. Doing so takes pressure off the quarterback, opens up passing lanes and sets up for direct snaps later on.

And with his speed, Thomas will excel when put in the correct system on draws, counters and direct snaps.

John Rozum on Twitter.