2012 NFL Mock Draft: Ranking the Draft's Top 5 RBs

As the running back position continues to devalue in the NFL, so too does the incoming draft prospects. We saw just one running back (Mark Ingram) get drafted in the first round of the 2011 NFL draft.

However, the 2012 NFL draft class has the potential to produce at least two first round picks and a bunch of potential second rounders.

Let's take a look at the top five backs in the 2012 NFL draft. 

David Wilson, Va Tech/LaMichael James, Oregon

Both Wilson (5'10", 205) and James (5'9", 195) have futures in the NFL as third-down backs.

Neither are likely to carry the load of a starting NFL running back (Wilson has the best chance of the two), but there's certainly value in having an explosive change-of-pace guy. Wilson and James fit that mold.  

With fast workouts after the season, both Wilson and James have the chance to be drafted within the first 100 picks.  

Chris Polk, Washington

There's a lot to like with Chris Polk. 

He has the size (5'11", 225), vision, patience and initial burst that every team is looking for a three-down, No. 1 running back. The production is also present, even behind an average offensive line at Washington. In two seasons, Polk has rushed for almost 2,500 yards with 20 total scores. 

With strong workouts in the pre-draft process, Polk could very well end up in the first 40-50 picks. 

Montee Ball, Wisconsin

Certainly, some of the credit for Ball's success over two seasons has to do with Wisconsin's dominant offensive line. He's run behind some of the nation's best fronts in his time in Madison. 

However, Ball isn't just some product of the system like we've seen with other UW backs. He's well-built, patient setting up blockers and a vulture near the goal line.

Only Ball's burst and top-end speed will keep him from being a top 32 pick. He's a safe choice in the second to third rounds at this point.  

Lamar Miller, Miami

Somewhat of an unknown before this season, Miller has burst onto the scene as one of college football's most explosive running backs in 2011. 

He has shown elite-level burst, top end speed and lateral quickness that is rivaled by only the next player on this list. That combination of attributes make NFL GMs drool.  

All reports say that Miller will enter the 2012 draft, so that should make him a solid bet to be the second running back drafted. A solid showing at the combine will ensure he's a first-round pick. 

Trent Richardson, Alabama

We finally get to Alabama running back Trent Richardson, who may be the 2012 draft's safest draft choice. 

Richardson excels at everything you want in a back: He's physical, fast, elusive and powerful. He can catch the ball, he hardly fumbles and can block in the passing game. Most will agree that Richardson is better back right now than his former teammate Mark Ingram was at the same time last year. 

As long as no major red flags are found between now and April, Richardson should be the first back off the board, somewhere in the first 20 or so picks.