NFL Draft 2012: Breaking Down Top Late-Round RB Prospects

Depending on what happens with free agency in the coming weeks, franchises that aren't desperate for a running back early in the draft may look to the best available ball-carries in the later rounds.

By that token, here's a breakdown of the best running back finds to consider toward the end of the draft.

Vick Ballard, Mississippi State

Only a two-year contributor for the Bulldogs, Vick Ballard was consistently reliable in a tough SEC West. In 2010, Ballard totaled 1,074 yards and scored 20 touchdowns. A year later, Ballard impressed once again with 1,376 total yards and 11 touchdowns.

With great size at 5'10", 220 pounds, Ballard is the best fit for anyone needing that short-yardage Brahma Bull. He's not a flashy runner who's going to juke defenders and beat linebackers to the edge, but Ballard can be effective between the tackles and especially near the goal-line.

In turn, that presence will setup play-action in favorable field position situations, and in accounting for 30 receptions through two seasons, Ballard is a decent option on third-down.

Dan Herron, Ohio State

Despite not getting the opportunity to see the field until mid-October of 2011, Dan Herron is stronger than given credit for and he possesses excellent ball-carrier vision.

A quick one-cut runner, Herron gained 712 total yards and scored three touchdowns in 2011 despite only playing in seven games. In 2011, Herron was easily one of college football's best backs with over 1,300 total yards and 16 touchdowns.

He's a dynamic back who can make narrow cuts in traffic and is reliable out of the backfield. With much still to prove, Herron is a steal in Round 5.

Bobby Rainey, Western Kentucky

Bobby Rainey may have played in the Sun Belt conference for Western Kentucky, but his level of consistency and versatility is quite impressive.

On the ground, Rainey accounted for almost 4,300 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns between 2009 and 2011. As a receiving back, Rainey caught 78 passes for 674 yards and five touchdowns during that same three-year span.

Rainey also acted as a great kickoff returner in 2008 and 2009, gaining almost 1,500 yards on 50 attempts. Albeit a bit undersized, Rainey has the lateral quickness, top speed and proven reliability to make an impact in the pros.

Worst-case scenario would be a third-down or No. 2 ball-carrier in a fast offense that could also use him as a return man.

Adonis Thomas, Toledo

A smaller back with excellent dynamics, Adonis Thomas compiled over 2,100 rushing yards and scored 20 touchdowns between 2010 and 2011. Also for the Rockets during those years, Thomas also caught 62 passes for 722 yards and three touchdowns.

Right now looking as your prototypical third-down back, Thomas has the agility, body control and field awareness to make defenders miss and get yards after first contact.

He will be best used in third-and-medium situations or third-and-long on draws to help with field position. Another option is to try him as a slot receiver, because Thomas has the ability to beat linebackers and smaller safeties in single coverage.

John Rozum on Twitter.