Fantasy Football Rankings 2011: Adrian Peterson Should Be Your Top Pick

There always seems to be a sexier pick than Adrian Peterson.

One year, it's Chris Johnson. Now, it's Arian Foster or Michael Vick. But do you know what's been consistent, year in and year out since 2007? Adrian Peterson's production. That’s what’s been consistent.

No, 2007 isn't a long period of time, but it is for a running back. Minnesota always depends on him, and he consistently delivers.

As a No. 1 pick, you don't want to gamble. Believe me, it's a mistake that cost me a title one year. LaDanian Tomlinson was the consistent back, but Shaun Alexander was the one coming off of a great year.

I went with Alexander and watched him have an injury-prone, inconsistent season while Tomlinson had one of the best years in NFL history. It's a mistake I'll never make again.

If you're stuck between a money player and guy who is coming off of one good season that was slightly better, take the money player.

Yeah, you may be risking some production if the two seasons repeat, but that's not likely to happen. Anyone can have a great season. But until they do it again, they are one-year wonders, nothing more.

Can they turn into better than that? Absolutely. But it's not a risk worth taking. Not when there is a reliable option right below him.

Adrian Peterson is now that guy. Yes, he's been a little fumble prone, but he's also been a production machine since his first day in the NFL.

As one of the true featured backs in the game, Peterson is the only logical No. 1 pick.

Yes, I believe that you should look for depth at receiver, but that’s only if you can’t get your hands on a Peterson-like running back. The production that the reliable studs get will almost guarantee you a playoff spot on their own.

If you can build any kind of team around Peterson, you are a lock for the league title. So, if you’re fortunate enough to draw that No. 1 pick. take Peterson and never look back.