Tag Archives: fantasy football running back rankings

NFL Top 10 Running Backs

In continuing with the ‘Top 10′ series, today we look at running backs. To see the Top 10 quarterbacks click here.

The running back is an interesting position. Some say that running backs are a product of their offensive lines. That you could stick anyone behind a great offensive line and they will make them look like a stud. They say never spend an early draft pick on a running back because you can always find a great one or at least serviceable one later on in the draft. There is evidence to back up these claims, but opponents of this thinking will point to the importance of a running game.

They will say that you need to run the ball to control the clock and come playoff time you better have a what Merril Hodge calls a “factor back” to carry the load. They will point to Chris Johnson (drafted in the first round), who essentially carried the Titans on his back last season to eight wins last season.

I think the truth lies somewhere in between, but I would side more with the first assertion that states running backs aren’t that important and are replaceable. Times have changed. Maybe if this was still the 70′s, then I would side with Merril and his “factor back” theory, but there is no denying that the NFL is a passing league. Chris Johnson had one of the best seasons ever by a running back last year and his team only went 8-8 and it could have been worse if not for Vince Young. The teams of four leading rushers last year combined to go 25-29, wile the teams of the four highest rated passers went 40-1.  Also, running backs break down earlier than any other position. Most backs are done by the time they hit 30. It simply isn’t worth using an early round pick on a running back.

Enough about the running back debate. It’s time to unveil my Top 10 running backs in the NFL right now.

10. Ryan Grant

Not flashy, but solid in every aspect of the game.

9. Jonathan Stewart

The best “backup” running back in football. Stewart will get his chance to shine soon enough.

8. Michael Turner

“The Burner” Turner is motivated to stay healthy and prove his ’08 season was no fluke.

7. DeAngelo Williams

In a contract year, DeAngelo is primed for a big season.

6. Frank Gore

Gore will love the holes his two new offensive lineman (Mike Iupati, Anthony Davis) will open up.

5. Ray Rice

Rice can beat you running the ball and out of the backfield as a receiver.

4. Maurice Jones-Drew

Despite his small stature (5’ 7″) M.J.D. is a wrecking ball on the field.

3.  Adrian Peterson

He needs to cut down on his fumbling before it becomes what he’s best known for.

2. Steven Jackson

Jackson doesn’t get enough credit for carrying the entire Rams offense on his back the past few seasons. If he played on a better team, he could be the best running back in the game.

1. Chris Johnson

The only question is will C.J. break Eric Dickerson’s record this year?