NFL running backs are a little like those beautiful, just-off-the-bus model-actresses that flock to Hollywood each year. Both head for the Big Time with bright eyes and dreams of stardom. They are welcomed with open arms by rich, repressed white men who hold the power within their industry. The backs and the model-actresses are then summarily used up, beaten down, broken and then cast aside for the insurance, real estate, and food service industries to take advantage of.
And only a select few ever realize their dreams.
Below I've compiled some 2009 NFL Draft running back rankings. I've given a rundown of the Top 10 running backs in the 2009 NFL Draft and then tossed in some potential sleepers. But of the 15 running backs in these rankings the odds suggest that only about three of them will ever be anyone that you'd actually want on your fantasy football team. And, after all, isn't that what really counts?
Without further ado, here are Doc's Sports 2009 NFL Draft running back rankings:
1. Knowshon Moreno, Georgia
I've said before that I think that Moreno is a better version of Marshawn Lynch. Moreno is tough, he's fast, and he's got better hands than what he has been given credit for. He's a reckless, fearless runner. While that's his great strength - that and his intense competitiveness - that also could limit his shelf life. He'll be an NFL starter in no time but also won't be a 300- or 350-carry guy.
2. LeSean McCoy, Pitt
McCoy had a blazing two years with the Panthers and I think he's right to leave now. McCoy is a burner, but he's also the only runner in my Top 10 running back rankings that is less than 200 pounds. And I don't see him getting much bigger. But after the splash that Chris Johnson made with the Titans last year McCoy's speed makes him a must-have accessory.
3. Chris Wells, Ohio State
Beanie is as good or better than any of the two backs in front of him. His work at the combine was exceptional and likely solidified his spot in the first round. The issue is pretty basic with Wells - can he stay healthy? And that's the kiss of death for any back coming out of college, because usually the question itself belies the answer: no.
4. Donald Brown, Connecticut
Don Brown was not a sexy name in college football circles but NFL scouts have certainly taken notice. His numbers at the combine were just a shade off what Wells put up. The most impressive thing about Brown, in my eyes, was the way he dominated games in November New England weather. He was great in the elements and was a workhorse for the Huskies.
5. Andre Brown, N.C. State
The thing that always stuck out to me about watching Andre Brown was that distinctive crack of shoulder pads when he hit a linebacker or a member of the opposing secondary in the second level. Make no mistake: Brown is nasty, and that streak will serve him well at the next level. He ran below a 4.5 at the combine and I don't think that many backs did more to help his stock over the past weekend….
6. Cedric Peerman, Virginia
This is another guy, like Andre Brown, that you get even more of an appreciation for once you see game tape of him. This kid is tough as nails and is deceptively fast. He ran a 4.45 and did 27 bench reps over the weekend at the combine, which certainly made him one of the pleasant surprises. There are some durability issues here, but nothing outside of the normal realm.
7. Ian Johnson, Boise State
I am positive that no one did more to help his stock over the weekend than this cat. I don't know why everyone was dogging Johnson prior to the combine but he shut up a lot of "experts". This kid dominated on the Smurf Turf and he always showed up in bowl games. Yeah, he didn't have a huge senior year. But that was more scheme than skill. Johnson's 26 bench reps and 4.46 40-yard dash might have vaulted him into the second round instead of having to settle for the second day.
8. Shonn Green, Iowa
Green is a thumper and has the build to be an every-down back. I am a bit worried about the fact that he was kind of a one-year wonder and that his numbers were inflated against the dregs of the Big Ten this year. But the kid runs hard and he had a 10-feet, 1-inch broad jump at the combine.
9. James Davis, Clemson
Davis had a terrible senior season and wasn't eye-popping at the combine. But I think if this kid can get his head right he has the tools to be an NFL back. His offensive line was pathetic last year so I don't hold that against him. But his physical numbers - he ran a 4.6 and only did 17 bench reps - at the combine were terrible. Got plenty of work to do, but I still have some hope.
Are you enjoying this column? Check out Doc's betting on futures page. If you plan on betting NFL you'll also want to read our NFL draft order page. Doc's Sports NFL Strength of Schedule page is and excellent NFL resource as well. For 35+ years the team at Doc's Sports Service has provided and insight on NFL handicapping.
10. Javon Ringer, Michigan State
Ringer really did not have a good weekend but I'm still going to defer to my own private eyeball test. He never had great offensive lines to work with at Michigan State but simply put up numbers in the rugged Big Ten. I have to say that Michigan State has provided plenty of busts in recent drafts but I think the Ringer can contribute as a No. 2 somewhere.
Some potential sleepers:
Glen Coffee, Alabama
Shun White, Navy
LaRod Stephens-Howling, Pitt
Keegan Herring, Arizona State
Rashad Jennings, Liberty
For info about Robert's picks? Check out his Insider's Page Here.
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