Fantasy Football 2011: Top 10 NFL Running Backs

In 2011, the top 10 running backs available are quite strong, making it tempting to grab one in the first round of your draft.  I have been advocating for a first-round selection on a top-tier QB, but if you are feeling like you would be OK to wait until a later round, then I would snag a RB in the first round if QB isn't a top priority for you.

In order to see my top 10 RBs laid out in order, I would welcome you to purchase the 2011 draft guide, but what I will do is present my current top 10 RBs in no particular order.  My current top 10 RBs are all very safe picks for your first round.

Steven Jackson

Steven Jackson will easily go over 1,000 yards and sniff the double-digit TDs in 2011.  Young Sam Bradford has really developed as a QB and it will open up more running room for the SJax in 2011.

Frank Gore

My only concern for Mr. Gore is his injury history; I can without a doubt say Gore will get hurt in 2011 so you better be sure to grab his backup in the last couple rounds for safety.

Rashard Mendenhall

Mendenhall was awesome last year and I really hope to see it continue into the 2011 season.  He will have Big Ben at the helm the entire year and this will allow him not only to get it done on the ground, but I am expecting some PPR action as well for the young back.

Adrian Peterson

Easily the most consistent RB on the list and one of my favorite RBs for the 2011 season.  I don't doubt that Minnesota will be utilizing AP much more this year.  You can rest easy with an AP pick in the first round. 

Arian Foster

Last year's Cinderella story puts him into the elite RB section.  A la Chris Johnson, Arian Foster has made a huge name for himself and will be an animal again this year with a nice kicker in PPR leagues.

Jamaal Charles

PPR leagues love Charles, but he finds his way into the end zone as well.  He is playing on a revamped KC team and 2011 should be a year for him to shine.  He is a sleep-easy pick for the first round.

Ray Rice

Ray was a little beast at the end of last year but it took him a little while to find his groove.  He is young and knows how to stay healthy.  I love this pick in PPR leagues for 2011.

Chris Johnson

Please don't hold out, young man.  You need to get out there and run.  This guy likes to talk a big game, but really missed him towards the end of last year.  I would like to see him get his head on straight, because most people will be grabbing him in Round 1.  If he can recommit himself, then he is a stud.

LeSean McCoy

Wow, he has Michael Vick to open up holes for him, but he is also dangerous after the catch.  I think McCoy is a sneaky top-10 back and I wouldn't hesitate to grab him in the first round.

Maurice Jones-Drew

Jones-Drew has proven that he can be a top back and safe pick, but we need him to stay healthy and continue to run strong.  He gets extra points in a PPR format.

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