NFL Draft Rankings 2012: Breaking Down the Top 5 Running Backs

The running back position in the 2012 NFL draft is not that deep of a position compared to cornerbacks, receivers and offensive tackles. Still, teams must have the ability to run the ball effectively and consistently to win games.

Trent Richardson is the only for-sure first-round running back and will likely go in the top five (top 10 at worst).

After him though, it's quite a drop despite some prospects possessing an array of talent. So, let's see what we get in Richardson and the best ball-carriers thereafter.

1. Trent Richardson, Alabama

In 2009 and 2010, Trent Richardson was the No. 2 back behind Mark Ingram. Still, Richardson accounted for over 1,800 total yards during that span as well as 18 touchdowns.

So, heading into the 2011 season, Richardson was not as physically worn down and turned that into a Heisman finalist season. With over 2,000 total yards and 24 touchdowns, Richardson exploded on the scene and emerged as the nation's most complete running back.

Against the toughest of competition each week, Richardson remained consistent and is the total package. He's a reliable pass-blocker, check-down receiver and has the speed to get outside. Richardson's potential also enhances because there are no severe durability concerns.

2. Doug Martin, Boise State

It's easy to overlook Doug Martin as he comes from Boise State. And it's not like the Broncos faced top-notch competition on a weekly basis.

However, Martin was the main back for Boise and his presence in the backfield attributed to Kellen Moore's success. On the ground, Martin accounted for over 3,300 yards since 2009 and 43 touchdowns.

As a receiver, Martin caught 56 passes for 593 yards and four scores between 2010 and 2011. Martin's size allows him to slither between the tackles, bowl over would-be tacklers and his agility can make guys miss in the open field.

Martin's also a great pass-protector and simply knows how to find the end zone when near the goal line.

3. LaMichael James, Oregon

One underrated aspect about LaMichael James is his size. Yes, he's a bit undersized, but James is an explosive downhill runner that brings more power than given credit for.

In three seasons with the Ducks, James collected over 5,000 rushing yards and scored 53 times on the ground. Let's face it: No ball-carrier gets that kind of production without consistently running north and south and getting solid yards after contact.

Additionally, James gained 586 receiving yards on 51 receptions and scored four touchdowns. He'll be effective on delayed screens, draws and quick tosses, but James' presence creates a more relevant play-action.

A solid pass-blocker, LaMichael is a more complete back than at first glance which increases his odds at enjoying an impressive rookie campaign.

4. Isaiah Pead, Cincinnati

Another dual-threat back, Isaiah Pead goes off-the-radar as the Cincinnati Bearcats compete in the overlooked Big East.

An expected late second-/early third-round selection, Pead compiled almost 3,100 rushing yards and 710 receiving yards on 85 receptions. With 33 total scores to his credit, Pead acted as the Bearcats' main offensive weapon.

Between the tackles is where Pead will provide the most efficiency, because he's quick and possesses great explosion through the lanes. Despite being quick enough to get to the outside, that area will come in handy for play-action.

His pass-blocking is impressive and with more development, Pead can become an every-down back by mid-season.

5. Chris Polk, Washington

Although he's overlooked by the success of Stanford and Oregon in the Pac-12, Washington's Chris Polk brings the entire package to the pros.

He's a consistent performer on the ground with 4,016 rushing yards between 2009 and 2011, including 27 touchdowns. Averaging 5.2 yards per carry during that span, Polk blasted through defensive fronts as the Huskies' lone offensive threat.

In the passing game, Polk's contributions go overlooked. There, the man caught 78 balls for 683 yards and four touchdowns. Arguably the draft's most reliable check-down target, Polk was able to add this area courtesy of his blocking aspect.

Delayed routes can occur when defenses neglect to blitz, and Polk's vision to find the short soft spots allowed Washington to present a balanced attack. 

John Rozum on Twitter.