Fantasy Football Picks 2012: Trent Richardson and More Rookies You Can Count On

Drafting rookies in a fantasy football league is a risky proposition.

These players have yet to prove anything on Sundays and could be complete busts, superstar studs or, most likely, somewhere in between.

When selecting rookies, team owners need to factor in probable touches more than anything else. Without the ball, these young men aren’t going to put up any points.

Here’s a look at three rooks that should be getting plenty of snaps and have a chance to make a real impact on your squad. 

Trent Richardson

The Browns RB went No. 3 overall in the 2012 draft, and he’s the rare player at his position that actually deserved a lofty selection.

Richardson will be the No. 1 back in Cleveland, and with no real competition behind him, should be in line for the lion’s share of the carries.

With fellow rookie Brandon Weeden under center and a slew of inexperienced receivers, the team will need to rely heavily on its ground game.

Expect some monster numbers out of a rusher that will have no problem translating his skills from college to the NFL. 

Doug Martin

Martin may have been the steal of the 2012 NFL draft at No. 31 overall.

The former Boise State Bronco standout will definitely jump LeGarrette Blount on the depth chart and will actually be able to handle passing downs, something that Blount simply can’t do.

He’s got the size, speed and power to make an impact at the next level and should be a key contributor to a great Tampa Bay Buccaneers squad.

Robert Griffin III

If you can’t, or refuse to, get an elite QB early in the draft, think about snapping up RGIII.

The Washington Redskins have been seeking a franchise signal-caller for years and finally found one in the former Heisman Trophy winner.

He’s going to be the starter for all 16 games—barring injury—and will make the most of it with his pinpoint passes and dazzling running ability.

Expect Griffin III to put major points up as the season moves forward.