FanPost

Running Back Rankings



Recently espn.com has put out a list of position rankings compiling the average position from its divisional bloggers to finalize a top 10 list of players at each position. NFL Network has also started the rankings of the top 100 current NFL players "as voted by the players." These are more so the product of boredom in the heat of an NFL lockout. (See espn.com Helmet Rankings as example) But, I thought it entertaining and fun to join in the mayhem so here is a self-compiled Running Back's top 10 list.

1) Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans - Albeit some mediocre yards per carry numbers, and some pretty bad games statistically, it's tough when your team has no passing game to keep the ground game honest. He's a home run threat every time he touches the ball, enough said.

2) Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs - I know, AP was not forgotten, but here's a brief case for Charles at #2. Probably the most productive Running Back in the NFL per touches. Doesn't fumble, electric speed, moves the chains.

3) Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings - Maybe the most physically gifted player in all of football. Huge, but fast and great in the open field. Can run over people, and got away from the fumbler stereotype, but tends to be bottled up on first contact a little more than you'd like.

4) LaSean McCoy, Philadelphia Eagles - Great vision, lateral movement, speed, and flat out makes people miss. It's sad he doesn't receive the recognition he deserves.

5) Steven Jackson, St. Louis Rams - He finally gets a somewhat balanced offense and runs for over 1,200 yards. A lot is to be said about his lack of statistics, but he hasn't had blocking or a passing game. One of the purest power runners in football.

6) Arian Foster, Houston Texans - Flat out unbelievable numbers along with unreal combination of power and speed. Was easily a top 4 running back last year, but let's get another one under the belt to put the proof in the pudding.

7) Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville Jaguars - The most overrated running back in football besides Michael Turner, in my opinion. However he's stout, durable, solid speed, and is a great fit for a run first offense. I just wouldn't consider him elite, and would not want to build a team around him. (see Jacksonville Jaguars)

8) Darren McFadden, Oakland Raiders - Finally broke out after years of under-achievement in the Black Hole that is Oakland. Great speed and decent size. Can hit the hole with burst and explosion, great in the open field. I see more solid years in front of him.

9) Ray Rice, Baltimore Ravens - Another stout and durable RB with solid speed. Can catch out of the backfield, reliable both outside and inside, consistent.

10) LeGarrette Blount, Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Power back in a league where they are hard to come by. 1,000 yard runner in only 7 starts and 13 games played.

Near Misses: Rashard Mendenhall, Frank Gore

Overrated Off List: Michael Turner, Peyton Hillis, Beanie Wells, Marion Barber

Underrated Off List: Danny Woodhead, Ryan Torain, Chris Ivory