2012 NFL Mock Draft: 5 Best RBs to Keep an Eye on

The NFL has transitioned to a quarterback league, but in no way does that mean the running back position is any less important. If you can't run the ball in the NFL, then it's going to be very hard to succeed. Even the top quarterbacks in the NFL rely on a strong running back to help take the pressure off, as well as to keep the defense on their toes. 

The 2012 class of running backs isn't very strong, and just like the 2011 draft, there may only be one taken in the first round. NFL teams don't want to risk taking a running back in the first round when they know they can get good ones in the second, third and fourth rounds. 

With that said, here are the top five running backs eligible for the 2012 NFL Draft.

Trent Richardson, Alabama Crimson Tide

 Labeled the best running back in the nation to start the season. Richardson hasn't exploded like we expected. But there is still plenty of time left in the season, and now that the Crimson Tide are hitting the meat of their schedule, they'll call on Richardson to step up. 

At 5'11" and 224 pounds, Richardson has the speed and power to excel at the next level. Likely the only running back selected in the first round next year, he should step in right away for a team and do well.

He has great vision, as well as that never quit attitude, and teams will love his ability to bust a big play. He's already had one rush for 71 yards this year, and in 2010, his long rush was for 30 or more yards in six games. 

Montee Ball, Wisconsin Badgers 

 Ball emerged in the mid to late part of the 2010 season as a serious threat for opponents, rushing for over 125 yards for five straight games.

He lost weight in the offseason to gain speed, and in just three games, he already has seven touchdowns. Despite being third on the team in rushing in 2010, he lead the team with 18 touchdowns, and I wouldn't be surprised if he has more in 2011. 

The 5'11", 210-pound workhorse should be the second back taken in the 2012 NFL draft because he has the perfect blend of power and speed that scouts love so much. Plus, the fact that he excels in a pro-style offense only helps his draft status. 

LaMichael James, Oregon Ducks 

Strictly a speed back, James may drop in the draft because of the type of offense he plays in at Oregon. The main concern with him is whether or not he can run between in the tackles at the next level, but because of his speed, he will get a ton of looks. 

James may lead the NCAA in rushing again this year, but the junior running back will have to work hard to prove to scouts that he can produce at the next level. I see him joining a team that loves the two-back system, and James will obviously play on obvious passing downs. 

NFL teams know he is blazing fast and very dangerous with the ball, which is why they will scheme for him to get the ball in space. However, he has to be able to protect his quarterback at the next level, and at 5'9" and 185 pounds, it's tough to tell if he can stop massive NFL lineman headed his way.

Cyrus Gray, Texas A&M Aggies 

 The best senior running back, Gray is a very crucial part of the Aggies success in 2011. His numbers aren't up to everyone else's so far this season, but that's only because the Aggies have played just two games.

In those two games, Gray has rushed for an average of 116 yards and two touchdowns. The 5'10", 200-pound power back will run over players, and he is also a great receiver out of the backfield—something scouts will love because more and more teams are are dumping the ball off to their running backs, especially against teams with great coverage skills.

Cray has a great combination of power and speed, and he is very capable of braking off the long touchdown runs. He's had rushes of 84 yards, 60 yards and 54 yards during his career so far, and with 10 games remaining on the schedule, who knows what else he'll do.

Chris Polk, Washington Huskies 

 In 2010, Polk was 13th in the nation in rushing, and after three games, he is currently in 10th place with 362 yards. He is sure to stay in the top 10 all season long, as he is the primary focus for the Huskies offense.

Last week, Polk rushed for 130 yards against a very tough Nebraska defense, which is further proof of his phenomenal skills. The 5'11", 215-pound back hits the hole hard, and with his exceptional vision, Polk is sure to succeed at the next level.

The Huskies don't have one of the best offensive lines in the country, which only means Polk has had to work extra hard to pick up yards. Add Polk to the list of guys with breakaway speed that can beat you for a big run.

Others to Watch For:

 Andre Ellington, Clemson

Lamar Miller, Miami

Ray Graham, Pittsburgh

Tauren Poole, Tennessee

Isaiah Pead, Cincinnati