2012 NFL Draft: Teams That Make Most Sense for Trent Richardson

Trent Richardson has established himself as the best running back in this year's class, and has a good chance to crack the top five picks. That's become increasingly rare as the NFL has moved away from old-school rushing attacks and more toward high-powered passing games.

Let's examine the teams that make the most sense for Richardson. He's the type of playmaker literally any team would benefit from having on the roster, but it will all come down to team needs.

Cleveland Browns

The Browns have two picks in the first round and should use them both on offensive skill position players. Giving Colt McCoy more weapons to utilize will at least give him a chance to succeed before the team decides what to do at quarterback moving forward.

Peyton Hillis was ineffective when healthy last season and has now joined the Kansas City Chiefs, so the Browns could definitely use a fresh face at running back. That means taking Richardson with the fourth pick would be well worth the investment.

The best thing about taking a RB early is the limited transition period they need to go through. The differences at the next level aren't as pronounced as other positions, allowing backs to make a quicker impact.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

LeGarrette Blount's second season wasn't nearly as impressive as his first, which was one of the key reasons the Buccaneers offense underperformed last season. Adding Richardson to the mix would lead to a bounce-back season.

Both running backs have a different approach. Blount has the size to plow through defenses to wear them down and Richardson brings more big-play ability to the table. They would form a dynamic duo in support of quarterback Josh Freeman.

Tampa Bay has been targeting defensive players in most mock drafts, but if the Browns pass on Richardson the team would have to reconsider its approach. He's the only playmaker on offense that would be a perfect fit for the Bucs.

Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks hold the 12th pick, but they are the next team on the board that could use Richardson. That type of slide has to worry the former Alabama star since there's a huge difference between the top five and the teens.

Marshawn Lynch holds down the fort well, but he's really nothing more than an average rusher. Richardson has the potential to become a truly elite player and would possess terrific value this deep into the opening round.

With new quarterback Matt Flynn added during the offseason, picking up Richardson would put Seattle's offense in good shape. Definitely good enough to make some noise in the NFC West next season.