NFL Free Agents 2012: Projecting Where Cedric Benson and Best Available RBs Sign

NFL draft talk aside, pro football still has some notable names left on the market. Here, we take a look at where the best remaining running backs will end up.

Despite the league relying so heavily on the passing game, possessing the ability to run the ball effectively when needed is key. Otherwise an offense remains one-dimensional, thus giving the defense a major advantage.

Cedric Benson, Philadelphia Eagles

The one missing piece to Philadelphia's offense is a between-the-tackles running game. LeSean McCoy is no doubt a complete and every-down back, but having a guy of Cedric Benson's size will allow the Eagles to run a split set.

Between 2009-11, Benson gained over 1,000 rushing yards in Cincinnati, so his reliability in the trenches is proven.

Whether Michael Vick goes in shotgun or remains under center, forming that two-back set allows Andy Reid to quick-hit the middle, quick-toss the outside, go off-tackle and set up play-action from either side.

This will come in handy against those aggressive pass-rushers of the NFC East.

Ryan Grant, Green Bay Packers

When the smoke clears, Ryan Grant shall remain in Green Bay. The Packers have no reason to part ways, simply because Grant will only be a young 30 years old by the end of the 2012 season.

A young age 30 means that Grant hasn't felt the brunt of NFL hits for eight years like most backs. His career began on the Giants' practice squad and, despite missing the entire 2010 season due to injury, he made a respectable response with 827 total yards in 2011.

Twice Grant has hit over 1,200 yards and his agility, size and balance allows the Packers to run the ball at will. Also, Grant mainly saw a down 2011 season courtesy of how efficient Aaron Rodgers was in the passing game.

Titletown will need Grant to remain present in 2012, otherwise it could be a very disappointing season.

Joseph Addai, San Diego Chargers

With the continued development of Ryan Mathews, the San Diego Chargers' pro-spread offense only needs a reliable third-down back to count on.

Joseph Addai is a solid fit, as he caught 157 passes for 1,231 yards and scored nine touchdowns between 2006-09. On screens or check-downs, Addai can act as Philip Rivers' safety outlet and occasionally give Mathews a breather in favorable situations.

Addai is also only turning 29 years old before the 2012 season kicks off, so he can revive his career in Southern California as a No. 2 ball-carrier. Having gained an average of almost 900 rushing yards through his first four years, Addai is just another skilled and experienced player the Bolts can find room for.

Mathews is undoubtedly the future, but every team need that savvy veteran to count on as well.

Jackie Battle, St. Louis Rams

In the defensively tough NFC West, the St. Louis Rams desperately need to find a consistently reliable No. 2 back for Steven Jackson.

Jackie Battle is a suitable fit, because Cadillac Williams and Jerious Norwood are not the solution. Battle, in 2011, gained 560 rushing yards for Kansas City in the Chiefs' final 11 games and averaged roughly four yards per carry during that span.

Against impressive defenses like San Francisco, Seattle and Arizona (yes, the Cardinals have improved), Battle would help St. Louis win those crucial second-down and third-down short-yardage situations.

Jackson hasn't seen that dependable Brahma Ball in the backfield with him, which only makes Battle a more appealing addition.

John Rozum on Twitter.