Cleveland Browns Will Make Trent Richardson the Next Eddie George

Trent Richardson has the body, collegiate production and powerful skill set to become a genuine workhorse runner in the NFL. He'll play an Eddie George throwback-type of role for the Cleveland Browns next season and beyond. 

And frankly, he should. 

George was the last successful true workhorse back in the NFL. He carried the ball over 311 times every year he spent with the Tennessee Titans, from 1996 to 2003. He made the Pro Bowl four times and was an All-Pro in 1999 and 2000. 

There was no questioning that George was the focal point of the Titans offense during his time with the team. And it didn't matter if opposing defenses knew he was getting the ball 30 times or more—they couldn't stop him. 

Expect the same for Richardson in Cleveland. 

While Brandon Weeden might be an upgrade over Colt McCoy, it's never easy for rookie quarterbacks to come in and easily lead a consistent and productive passing attack. 

Having selected Richardson No. 3 overall—the highest a running back has been picked since 2006—they sent a clear message to the rest of the league that their offense would run through the Alabama star. 

Playing in the hard-nosed AFC North, a punishing, downhill running back like Richardson will give the Browns the best option to stay competitive on Sundays. They'll be able to dictate the tempo of the game and keep Weeden or McCoy out of precarious situations. 

Without any truly threatening playmakers on the outside, along with the quarterback question marks, Cleveland almost has to give Richardson upwards of 25 or 30 carries a game. And he should also be a factor as a receiver, catching short passes out of the backfield. 

If you thought the Eddie George-esque running back was extinct from the NFL, think again. Trent Richardson is in an ideal situation to have a nearly identical career as the Titans legend. 

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