Avoid Lloyd1975
06-04-2008, 06:22 PM
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DISCUSS: They posted 1-64 but it was pointless to post all of them after the top 40. Mendenhall cracked the top 30. I am just shocked to see where Willie fell in.
Ranking the top running backs is about as easy as tackling any of them in the open field. Still, Scouts Inc. looked at every back in the league -- from the superstars to the rookies to the established veterans to those still looking for a job -- and listed them 1-64.
Some were easy. Others caused some long and loud arguments. And this list will undoubtedly cause many more debates. But ultimately, we looked at a variety of factors. We studied the player's body of work as well as looked ahead and projected future production. We took into account the kind of offense they play in, the scheme and supporting cast around them. We compared players who were every-down backs against those who didn't play as much. We factored in durability and versatility. We looked at everything we could think of and when all else failed, we just asked who would we want on our team right now.
So here is our list of the top running backs in the NFL from 1 to 64. Let the second-guessing begin.
1. LaDainian Tomlinson, San Diego Chargers
Watch: Tomlinson highlights
Superpower -- Tomlinson is the most versatile back in the NFL. He has elite vision and ranks among the best ever to play the game when it comes to finding cutback lanes. He has an excellent combination of size, strength and speed, can run inside or outside, catches the ball like a receiver and blocks effectively. In short, LT is the most dangerous back in the league today.
Kryptonite -- None. Wear and tear could soon become a factor because of the sheer amount of touches he has had during his career, and a knee injury that hindered him in last season's AFC Championship Game proved he is indeed human.
2. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
Watch: Peterson highlights
Superpower -- Peterson runs behind the best offensive line in the NFL but also is the most physically dominating back in the league. He runs with elite power and strength, gains a lot of yards after contact and knows how to finish runs. The Viking has deceptive quickness in the hole for a back his size. He is the most explosive finisher in the NFL with his combination of strength, power and speed.
Kryptonite -- Not surprisingly, durability always will be a concern. Even though Peterson does a nice job of lowering his pads on contact and delivers a bigger blow than he receives, his running style lends itself to taking big hits. And though it often was because he tried to extend runs, he fumbled the ball too often (four times) last season.
3. Steven Jackson, St. Louis Rams
Superpower -- His versatility. Jackson is an excellent inside-out runner who is smooth and fluid. He is light on his feet for his size and can make the first defender miss in the hole. He can run around or through defenders, making it difficult to get him off his feet. He has excellent hands and creates numerous mismatches for an opposing defensive coordinator.
Kryptonite -- Like many backs who get many touches, durability is a concern. At times, he could run a little more physically in short-yardage situations.
4. Brian Westbrook, Philadelphia Eagles
Superpower -- Westbrook can align anywhere on the field and create mismatches. No linebacker in the NFL can handle Westbrook in man-to-man coverage. He has elite quickness to get on the edges and turn the corner. He is a better receiver than runner, and that is saying a lot because as a runner he shows excellent vision and instincts.
Kryptonite -- Lack of size. He is not a guy who will carry the ball 30 times per game and wear down opposing defenses.
5. Larry Johnson, Kansas City Chiefs
Superpower -- Johnson fits the definition of a "bell cow" better than any back on the list. The Chiefs can feed him the ball all day long, and he'll wear down an opposing defense. He is a physical inside runner who moves the pile after contact and can get tough yards otherwise. Though he's a bigger back, he has breakaway speed when he hits the second level at full speed.
Kryptonite -- He is not an elite receiver out of the backfield, nor is he very quick or elusive. For Johnson to be effective, he needs a solid offensive line, because he won't make defenders miss or create on his own if there is no initial hole for him to reach.
6. Joseph Addai, Indianapolis Colts
Watch: Addai highlights
Superpower -- Addai's No. 1 asset as a runner is his patience, which is a must in the Colts' scheme. He is a one-cut runner who can get downhill in a hurry when he sees a hole. Addai is shifty at the second level as well and has excellent hands and feel in the passing game. He is dangerous in the open field after the catch because he does an excellent job of setting up his blocks.
Kryptonite -- Though he has not had major injuries, there have been some nicks. We would not describe Addai as a tough or physical runner. He runs a little upright and takes some big hits. We also wonder whether he is a "system" player and whether he would have the same value in another offense.
7. Frank Gore, San Francisco 49ers
Superpower -- We're not sure we have seen a back who is so explosive yet has dealt with so many injuries. Gore shows exceptional quickness to and through the hole and can plant and change directions quickly. He runs with good balance and is tough to get off his feet. His hands are an asset, and he likely will catch close to 100 balls in 2008 in the scheme of new offensive coordinator Mike Martz.
Kryptonite -- Durability. Gore has had two major knee injuries dating back to college, and in the NFL he has been nicked up often. We wonder about his longevity as a feature back. The 49er did not run as hard last season and became frustrated with his role in the offense. He needs to mature and become a more effective leader.
8. Marion Barber, Dallas Cowboys
Watch: Barber highlights
Superpower -- Second only to Minnesota's Peterson as a physical inside runner, Barber delivers a huge blow on contact and always falls forward or keeps his feet moving after contact. He catches the ball well and is tough to get off his feet in space. He is an excellent leader and motivator, and you can see the spark he brings to the offense when he gets in the game.
Kryptonite -- Questions exist about whether he can produce as an every-down back. Barber just got a new mega contract but never has been the true starter in Dallas. He is not shifty and does not avoid contact well, and even though he packs a punch, he gets hit hard often as a runner. You wonder whether he can hold up long-term with the amount of hits he takes. His lack of game-breaking speed also needs to be noted.
9. Clinton Portis, Washington Redskins
Watch: Portis highlights
Superpower -- Portis is simply impressive in terms of production. He is near the top of the league every year and is a tough player who will fight through bumps and bruises. He attacks the line of scrimmage and can make the first defender miss in the hole. He does not have elite size but knows how to finish his runs.
Kryptonite -- He puts the ball on the ground too often and at times does so in critical situations. He can be aloof when he needs to take care of the ball, dropping easy passes to kill drives and missing blocks in pass protection. He has great physical tools but at times seems to check out mentally.
10. Marshawn Lynch, Buffalo Bills
Watch: Lynch highlights
Superpower -- For a back who had concerns about toughness, Lynch sure does know how to finish. He lowers his pads and breaks tackles on first contact. He showed solid vision and run instincts last year as a rookie, something many first-year backs struggle with.
Kryptonite -- Lynch needs to develop his receiving skills; he had 18 receptions out of the backfield last season. He does not show a lot of wiggle and can be a bit of a straight-line runner. He needs to become a better blocker, as he missed some blitz pickups that resulted in QB sacks last season.
11. Fred Taylor, Jacksonville Jaguars
Superpower -- Taylor keeps getting better. He is still extremely explosive to the hole and has an excellent stutter-step to show patience while the hole develops. He's elusive and can make defenders miss with a spin move or foot quickness.
Kryptonite -- He is no longer an every-down back and does not catch the ball out of the backfield as well as he once did. Age does not seem to be a factor right now, but his legs are not getting any younger.
12. Willis McGahee, Baltimore Ravens
Superpower -- He is much more explosive than he appears to be. At times he seems methodical in his movements, but he does show explosiveness to and through the hole. McGahee is a solid inside runner who occasionally bounces the ball to the edge. He is an underrated player who is extremely tough -- he's even played despite having cracked ribs.
Kryptonite -- He is not very flashy or explosive. He is not a home run threat in the open field nor does he show the consistent quickness to get out on the edges and make plays. He put the ball on the ground a few times last season in critical situations.
13. Willie Parker, Pittsburgh Steelers
Superpower -- Parker has been an explosive playmaker since taking over as the starter in 2005. He is an explosive player who can strike from anywhere on the field and has the speed and acceleration to pressure the edges of a defense.
Kryptonite -- Parker doesn't have the size you look for in a three-down back. He lacks a variety of moves in open space and doesn't run with a lot of tackle strength on the second level. He can be a liability as a pass-blocker when isolated in one-on-one situations.
14. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville Jaguars
Watch: Jones-Drew highlights
Superpower -- Jones-Drew is an explosive playmaker who can break a big run from anywhere. He runs with excellent power and strength with enough toughness to be effective as an inside runner. If he can find a crease he can use his speed, balance and body control to make big plays. He has additional value in the passing game and as a return specialist.
Kryptonite -- He never has been the featured guy while playing behind Fred Taylor in Jacksonville. He lacks the size to be a consistently effective blocker, and there are some concerns about his ability to run between the tackles as an every-down player.
15. Jamal Lewis, Cleveland Browns
Superpower -- Lewis played at a very high level last season as the Browns' featured running back. He has a solid, thick frame and runs with a low center of gravity. He also shows good vision and the power to run between the tackles. Lewis breaks arm tackles and keeps his balance to gain extra yards after initial contact. He still has game-breaking ability and the other tools he needs to be productive.
Kryptonite -- His overall athletic ability has declined throughout his career. His first step, though effective, isn't as quick as it was in his 2,000-yard season of 2003. He doesn't provide much as a blocker in pass protection and is average at best as a receiver out of the backfield.
16. Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons
Watch: Turner highlights
Superpower -- Turner played behind Tomlinson in San Diego but showed enough to say he has the talent to give the Falcons a huge lift on first and second down. He was an excellent change-of-pace runner behind LT and runs with good pad level, showing good downhill acceleration when attacking holes. He is a very productive north-south runner.
Kryptonite -- He has never been a featured back and has earned limited playing time in his career. He is not very elusive in space and contributed mainly on first and second down with limited value as a receiver out of the backfield. He has not been consistent as a pass-blocker, either.
17. Brandon Jacobs, New York Giants
Superpower -- Jacobs has an excellent combination of size, strength and functional play speed. He is most effective when he uses his size to attack downhill between the tackles. He has good vision and run instincts with above-average speed and acceleration to get downhill and press the hole. He is a powerful runner who can lower his shoulder to gets yards after contact.
Kryptonite -- Jacobs has enough speed to get on the edge but is not a true home run threat. He has decent hands out of the backfield but still has a tendency to double-catch at times. He's not elusive as an open-field runner and struggles at times as a pass-blocker.
18. Laurence Maroney, New England Patriots
Superpower -- Maroney has shown flashes of everything the Patriots hoped he would be with his combination of speed, power and explosiveness. He has all the tools to be a productive front-line runner in the NFL. He is a natural jump-cutter with the ability to turn a short gain into an explosive downfield play. Kryptonite -- Maroney has not been consistent and has struggled with durability issues. He lacks the bulk to run over defenders and the size to consistently match up in pass protection schemes. He's not a natural receiver out of the backfield.
19. Ronnie Brown, Miami Dolphins
Superpower -- Brown is an extremely talented player who can contribute on first and second down. He is a tough, strong inside runner who has the ability to wear down defenses. He has an excellent combination of athleticism and size around which new head coach Tony Sparano can build his offensive system.
Kryptonite -- Injuries. Brown started the first seven games of the season last year before landing on injured reserve with a knee injury. He has never played a full 16-game season in his short career and has yet to prove he can carry a consistent load. Brown is more natural running behind a fullback and doesn't have much value as a receiver out of the backfield at this point in his career.
20. Ryan Grant, Green Bay Packers
Superpower -- Grant came out of nowhere last season to put up impressive numbers (five 100-yard games) in the Packers' zone-running scheme. He has good size, functional strength and play speed. He is a natural one-cut runner who has the speed and acceleration to press the hole. He is an instinctive runner with good vision through the hole.
Kryptonite -- Grant still needs to be more patient when getting on the second level. He has a tendency to try to bounce to the sideline instead of lowering his shoulder and running north-south on the second level. You don't see the consistent second gear on the second level. He's still a young player who lacks experience as a starter in a 16-game season.
21. Edgerrin James, Arizona Cardinals
Superpower -- Has good vision and acceleration to press the hole, and even though his longest run was 27 yards, James still managed to rush for 1,000 yards last season. Runs with a low center of gravity with good balance and control. Still has the speed to get outside on the edge with natural cutback ability. He can be an effective receiver out of the backfield.
Kryptonite -- He has shown declining skills and is not the same back he was a few years ago. He is no longer a threat to strike from anywhere on the field, is not much of a blocker and doesn't always give consistent effort in pass pro. Will put the ball on the ground at times in critical situations.
22. LenDale White, Tennessee Titans
Superpower -- He is a young player with outstanding size and lower-body strength. He is a physical runner who can be very effective as an inside runner. Has vision, control and the burst to bounce outside and attack different levels in the defense.
Kryptonite -- Not always going to be in the best shape and will always have weight and work ethic concerns. Lacks breakaway speed and is not elusive in open space. Must improve his pass pro skills.
23. Darren McFadden, Oakland Raiders
Superpower -- Easily the best football player in the 2008 draft. He is a very talented running back with the speed and quickness to be dangerous anywhere on the field. He is very elusive and runs with a purpose and has the ability to be a difference-maker at the next level. He should be the featured runner in Oakland from day one if he is signed and under contract. Kryptonite -- Lacks NFL experience and will need time to develop. He must improve his lower-body strength and run after contact on the second level. He will need a lot of refinement as a pass-blocker when reacting to zone dogs and blitzes.
24. Thomas Jones, New York Jets
Superpower -- He is a short, well-built athlete with excellent athleticism and deceptive power, and his presence last season allowed the Jets to rely more on a power rushing attack. He has excellent inline vision, foot agility, balance and quickness. He has patience to let blocking schemes develop while utilizing his ability to move the pile or elude defenders with short-area quickness and wiggle.
Kryptonite -- Thomas had his least productive season as a starter in 2007 behind a very ineffective offensive line. He has just adequate hands as a receiver out of the backfield and has shown only decent ability to run after the catch. Thomas is a willing pass-blocker but can get out-leveraged at times due to lack of height.
25. Reggie Bush, New Orleans Saints
Superpower -- If Bush is used properly within the offensive scheme, he has the speed and ability to make explosive plays in the running and passing games. He must be accounted for within the defensive game plan when involved in certain personnel groupings. He has great body control and quickness, game-changing speed and impressive instincts. He is a very good receiver who catches passes at full speed and is a dangerous runner after the catch.
Kryptonite -- He is not an every-down back. Bush lacks elite size and the bulk to move the pile, and is susceptible to wearing down. Does not do an effective job as a pass-blocker and still needs to improve his technique. He is only a multiple threat in the right kind of situations and personnel groupings.
26. Chester Taylor, Minnesota Vikings
Superpower -- There isn't really anything you can say he does poorly. He is a tough runner who also catches the ball well and is very capable of picking up the blitz. He is effective running outside or between the tackles. While he isn't the most dynamic runner around, he is an exceptional No. 2 that any team would love to have. It went under the radar a bit as he ended up being the backup to Adrian Peterson, but Taylor did rack up 844 yards on the ground last year and gained a whopping 5.4 yards per carry.
Kryptonite -- One word: Peterson. While Taylor doesn't excel in any one area, he would be the one posting impressive numbers if the Vikings hadn't taken Peterson in the 2007 draft. Hard to blame a guy for a situation like that.
27. DeAngelo Williams, Carolina Panthers
Superpower -- Williams has very good natural running skills. He sees a play develop, is patient letting his blockers to do their jobs and then explodes through the hole with excellent burst. He runs low and has very good balance. There is a lot to like about how he carries the football.
Kryptonite -- He has not gotten a true chance to show what he can do with a high number of carries. While he isn't an exceptional pile-mover inside and isn't built like a typical workhorse, he is productive when given the chance. With more touches -- which is now unlikely after the Panthers drafted Jonathan Stewart -- Williams could potentially break out.
28. Rudi Johnson, Cincinnati Bengals
Superpower -- He is tough, falls forward on contact and does an excellent job of taking what is given to him. He can wear a defense down and punish tacklers, which pays dividends late in games. Johnson had always been a player whom Cincinnati could count on to do the heavy lifting and get the tough yards, which opens up its dangerous passing game.
Kryptonite -- As evidenced by his paltry 2.9 yards per carry last year, the end might be approaching quickly for Johnson. He has a lot of wear and tear on his body and wasn't the niftiest guy to begin with. When pounding backs like Johnson lose the little burst and quickness that they have, getting out of the way of aggressive defenders becomes a big problem. This year is pivotal for Johnson's career.
29. Jonathan Stewart, Carolina Panthers
Superpower -- Stewart has a lot of big-play ability for a back of his size and should complement DeAngelo Williams very well. Carolina wants to pound the rock and Stewart should eventually see the bulk of the carries for the Panthers. He can wear a defense down and also has the ability to break long runs. Exactly what you are looking for in a first-round running back.
Kryptonite -- Like any rookie, adapting to the NFL will not be easy. But for Stewart it could be more difficult, because he is nursing a nagging toe injury. Although running back might be the easiest transitional position for first-year players, rookies need all the reps they can get, and Stewart is presently unable to perform due to his injury.
30. Rashard Mendenhall, Pittsburgh Steelers
Superpower -- The rookie is big and is very fast for such a powerful runner. He cuts sharply and wastes little motion and doesn't have to gear down when changing directions. He is a developing receiver who should only get better in this area. Pittsburgh is an excellent place for his short- and long-term development, and Mendenhall could have a very bright future.
Kryptonite -- Mendenhall carried the ball a lot during his one year as the starter at Illinois, but he was not asked to do much in the way of pass blocking. He has the mentality and physical ability to be a fine pass-blocker, but this is a difficult skill for a rookie to learn. It is tough to put a running back on the field if he will likely get his star quarterback blindsided by a blitzing linebacker.
31. Justin Fargas, Oakland Raiders
Superpower -- Fargas attacks the line of scrimmage with vigor and fights for yardage with impressive passion. He runs very hard and breaks tackles, but is still an explosive athlete with the speed to take it the distance. Fargas is the kind of guy you like to have in a rotation and should form a very productive pair with McFadden.
Kryptonite -- Because of his aggressiveness and high running style, Fargas has proved to be a durability risk. Adding another ball carrier to lighten his load will surely prolong his career and keep him fresh late in games and as the season progresses. He is a bit of a straight-line player and doesn't show the lateral agility of many of the top backs on this list.
32. Carnell Williams, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Superpower -- Williams can be a great running back with his rare vision, aggressiveness and natural running instincts. He plays the game with passion and has an excellent burst to attack a defense. It is difficult to predict how he will recover from his latest injury, but when he is right, there are few who run the ball like Williams.
Kryptonite -- He just cannot stay on the field. He runs extremely hard and isn't really built to take that kind of pounding. Making matters worse, he just seems to have bad luck when it comes to injuries. He very well could get healthy and re-establish himself a great back, but he might also never play effectively again.
33. Deuce McAllister, New Orleans Saints
Superpower -- Few backs have the combination of natural running ability, power and big-play ability that McAllister boasts. There really isn't anything that he can't do well on the field. Having McAllister back in the starting lineup at full health would allow New Orleans to better utilize Bush's impressive pass-catching ability.
Kryptonite -- Much like Cadillac Williams, McAllister's ability to stay on the field is a major issue. He is recovering from another serious knee injury and is getting to the age where players at his position begin their natural decline anyway. If he can get back to form and stay healthy, he will shoot right back up this list, but counting on him to do so is a risky proposition.
34. Kevin Jones, No team
Superpower -- His talent is apparent and Jones has a lot going for him when he is healthy. He can break long runs or carry the ball with power. He cuts sharply and shows good feet in tight quarters. There is surely a team out there that will jump on him once he proves he is recovered from injury.
Kryptonite -- Health is obviously a huge problem for Jones right now, because he is a talented player without a home. He has had a difficult time staying healthy over his short career and isn't really someone who a coach can comfortably count on to carry the load on a game-to-game basis.
35. Julius Jones, Seattle Seahawks
Superpower -- Jones is a talented running back with enough size, good speed and impressive explosiveness. While he wasn't much of a receiver in Dallas, he has the ability to step up in this department, especially in Seattle's pass-heavy attack. The change of scenery to the Northwest could do him a lot of good.
Kryptonite -- Jones' toughness has been called into question at times and there are certainly instances in which you would like to see him be more physical with the ball in his hands or in pass protection. He is also a bit of a tweener in that he isn't big enough to pound a defense or quick and elusive enough to be the ideal change-of-pace runner.
36. Travis Henry, no team
Superpower -- Henry is a powerful downhill runner who runs hard. He has excellent experience and knows what it takes to be successful at the highest level. He sees the play develop well and almost always gets every yard he can. Henry is a tough player to get on the ground as well.
Kryptonite -- Comes with some off-field concerns and might not be the kind of player that every team would welcome into its locker room. Henry also has a difficult time staying healthy and has to be considered a declining player at this advanced stage of his career. He also adds little as a pass-catcher and is a two-down player at best.
37. Earnest Graham, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Superpower -- You have to love Graham's effort and work ethic. Those traits paid off for him in a big way last year and he grabbed the Buccaneers' starting running back job by the throat. He is tough and reliable and will fight for every yard possible. Graham runs low, doesn't avoid contact and has a little wiggle to his running style. Despite his age, he also has very little wear on his tires.
Kryptonite -- Before last season Graham has only been a depth runner and special teams player. Physically, he isn't overwhelming in any area and his performance last season has to be considered at or near his ceiling. He isn't big and will need to be spelled at times to stay effective, and he should not be considered the running back of the future in Tampa Bay.
38. Warrick Dunn, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Superpower -- The Bucs will be thrilled to have Dunn back in the fold. He is the ultimate professional and has outstanding character. He does all the little things well and knows what it takes to be a success. His attitude should be infectious and he can be counted on to contribute to Jon Gruden's offense on any down. Not only has he put together a great career, but Dunn is also the type of player who is very easy to root for.
Kryptonite -- Many knock Dunn for being too small, but he has proved time and time again that he can get the job done. However, he isn't a back who you want to carry the entire load at this stage of his career and his exceptional quickness and elusiveness are beginning to fade.
39. Kevin Smith, Detroit Lions
Superpower -- A smooth glider with good acceleration out of his cuts. Has good hands and receiving skills, catches the ball easily and has good buildup speed in space. He has good strength and vision for his size and runs aggressively. Smith can bounce and slide effectively to find daylight. Not the biggest or fastest guy, but a good football player.
Kryptonite -- He's not a blazer and will run a little too upright at times. Lacks some initial burst and acceleration with the ball. Needs to improve his overall technique in pass protection in order to face up and play stout when taking on linebackers.
40. Jerious Norwood, Atlanta Falcons
Superpower -- He provides explosive speed as a change-of-pace runner for the Falcons. He has good burst into space on toss plays or when bouncing to the outside. Runs with good vision and instincts, doing a very good job making subtle moves at full speed and keeping his momentum alive to produce long gains. Also shows good hands as a receiver out of the backfield with the ability to outrun defenders after the catch.
Kryptonite -- He lacks nifty feet in tight areas in traffic. Will take extra steps to gear down or gather himself when attempting to make hard cuts and is missing power between the tackles and good pass pro awareness.
DISCUSS: They posted 1-64 but it was pointless to post all of them after the top 40. Mendenhall cracked the top 30. I am just shocked to see where Willie fell in.
Ranking the top running backs is about as easy as tackling any of them in the open field. Still, Scouts Inc. looked at every back in the league -- from the superstars to the rookies to the established veterans to those still looking for a job -- and listed them 1-64.
Some were easy. Others caused some long and loud arguments. And this list will undoubtedly cause many more debates. But ultimately, we looked at a variety of factors. We studied the player's body of work as well as looked ahead and projected future production. We took into account the kind of offense they play in, the scheme and supporting cast around them. We compared players who were every-down backs against those who didn't play as much. We factored in durability and versatility. We looked at everything we could think of and when all else failed, we just asked who would we want on our team right now.
So here is our list of the top running backs in the NFL from 1 to 64. Let the second-guessing begin.
1. LaDainian Tomlinson, San Diego Chargers
Watch: Tomlinson highlights
Superpower -- Tomlinson is the most versatile back in the NFL. He has elite vision and ranks among the best ever to play the game when it comes to finding cutback lanes. He has an excellent combination of size, strength and speed, can run inside or outside, catches the ball like a receiver and blocks effectively. In short, LT is the most dangerous back in the league today.
Kryptonite -- None. Wear and tear could soon become a factor because of the sheer amount of touches he has had during his career, and a knee injury that hindered him in last season's AFC Championship Game proved he is indeed human.
2. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
Watch: Peterson highlights
Superpower -- Peterson runs behind the best offensive line in the NFL but also is the most physically dominating back in the league. He runs with elite power and strength, gains a lot of yards after contact and knows how to finish runs. The Viking has deceptive quickness in the hole for a back his size. He is the most explosive finisher in the NFL with his combination of strength, power and speed.
Kryptonite -- Not surprisingly, durability always will be a concern. Even though Peterson does a nice job of lowering his pads on contact and delivers a bigger blow than he receives, his running style lends itself to taking big hits. And though it often was because he tried to extend runs, he fumbled the ball too often (four times) last season.
3. Steven Jackson, St. Louis Rams
Superpower -- His versatility. Jackson is an excellent inside-out runner who is smooth and fluid. He is light on his feet for his size and can make the first defender miss in the hole. He can run around or through defenders, making it difficult to get him off his feet. He has excellent hands and creates numerous mismatches for an opposing defensive coordinator.
Kryptonite -- Like many backs who get many touches, durability is a concern. At times, he could run a little more physically in short-yardage situations.
4. Brian Westbrook, Philadelphia Eagles
Superpower -- Westbrook can align anywhere on the field and create mismatches. No linebacker in the NFL can handle Westbrook in man-to-man coverage. He has elite quickness to get on the edges and turn the corner. He is a better receiver than runner, and that is saying a lot because as a runner he shows excellent vision and instincts.
Kryptonite -- Lack of size. He is not a guy who will carry the ball 30 times per game and wear down opposing defenses.
5. Larry Johnson, Kansas City Chiefs
Superpower -- Johnson fits the definition of a "bell cow" better than any back on the list. The Chiefs can feed him the ball all day long, and he'll wear down an opposing defense. He is a physical inside runner who moves the pile after contact and can get tough yards otherwise. Though he's a bigger back, he has breakaway speed when he hits the second level at full speed.
Kryptonite -- He is not an elite receiver out of the backfield, nor is he very quick or elusive. For Johnson to be effective, he needs a solid offensive line, because he won't make defenders miss or create on his own if there is no initial hole for him to reach.
6. Joseph Addai, Indianapolis Colts
Watch: Addai highlights
Superpower -- Addai's No. 1 asset as a runner is his patience, which is a must in the Colts' scheme. He is a one-cut runner who can get downhill in a hurry when he sees a hole. Addai is shifty at the second level as well and has excellent hands and feel in the passing game. He is dangerous in the open field after the catch because he does an excellent job of setting up his blocks.
Kryptonite -- Though he has not had major injuries, there have been some nicks. We would not describe Addai as a tough or physical runner. He runs a little upright and takes some big hits. We also wonder whether he is a "system" player and whether he would have the same value in another offense.
7. Frank Gore, San Francisco 49ers
Superpower -- We're not sure we have seen a back who is so explosive yet has dealt with so many injuries. Gore shows exceptional quickness to and through the hole and can plant and change directions quickly. He runs with good balance and is tough to get off his feet. His hands are an asset, and he likely will catch close to 100 balls in 2008 in the scheme of new offensive coordinator Mike Martz.
Kryptonite -- Durability. Gore has had two major knee injuries dating back to college, and in the NFL he has been nicked up often. We wonder about his longevity as a feature back. The 49er did not run as hard last season and became frustrated with his role in the offense. He needs to mature and become a more effective leader.
8. Marion Barber, Dallas Cowboys
Watch: Barber highlights
Superpower -- Second only to Minnesota's Peterson as a physical inside runner, Barber delivers a huge blow on contact and always falls forward or keeps his feet moving after contact. He catches the ball well and is tough to get off his feet in space. He is an excellent leader and motivator, and you can see the spark he brings to the offense when he gets in the game.
Kryptonite -- Questions exist about whether he can produce as an every-down back. Barber just got a new mega contract but never has been the true starter in Dallas. He is not shifty and does not avoid contact well, and even though he packs a punch, he gets hit hard often as a runner. You wonder whether he can hold up long-term with the amount of hits he takes. His lack of game-breaking speed also needs to be noted.
9. Clinton Portis, Washington Redskins
Watch: Portis highlights
Superpower -- Portis is simply impressive in terms of production. He is near the top of the league every year and is a tough player who will fight through bumps and bruises. He attacks the line of scrimmage and can make the first defender miss in the hole. He does not have elite size but knows how to finish his runs.
Kryptonite -- He puts the ball on the ground too often and at times does so in critical situations. He can be aloof when he needs to take care of the ball, dropping easy passes to kill drives and missing blocks in pass protection. He has great physical tools but at times seems to check out mentally.
10. Marshawn Lynch, Buffalo Bills
Watch: Lynch highlights
Superpower -- For a back who had concerns about toughness, Lynch sure does know how to finish. He lowers his pads and breaks tackles on first contact. He showed solid vision and run instincts last year as a rookie, something many first-year backs struggle with.
Kryptonite -- Lynch needs to develop his receiving skills; he had 18 receptions out of the backfield last season. He does not show a lot of wiggle and can be a bit of a straight-line runner. He needs to become a better blocker, as he missed some blitz pickups that resulted in QB sacks last season.
11. Fred Taylor, Jacksonville Jaguars
Superpower -- Taylor keeps getting better. He is still extremely explosive to the hole and has an excellent stutter-step to show patience while the hole develops. He's elusive and can make defenders miss with a spin move or foot quickness.
Kryptonite -- He is no longer an every-down back and does not catch the ball out of the backfield as well as he once did. Age does not seem to be a factor right now, but his legs are not getting any younger.
12. Willis McGahee, Baltimore Ravens
Superpower -- He is much more explosive than he appears to be. At times he seems methodical in his movements, but he does show explosiveness to and through the hole. McGahee is a solid inside runner who occasionally bounces the ball to the edge. He is an underrated player who is extremely tough -- he's even played despite having cracked ribs.
Kryptonite -- He is not very flashy or explosive. He is not a home run threat in the open field nor does he show the consistent quickness to get out on the edges and make plays. He put the ball on the ground a few times last season in critical situations.
13. Willie Parker, Pittsburgh Steelers
Superpower -- Parker has been an explosive playmaker since taking over as the starter in 2005. He is an explosive player who can strike from anywhere on the field and has the speed and acceleration to pressure the edges of a defense.
Kryptonite -- Parker doesn't have the size you look for in a three-down back. He lacks a variety of moves in open space and doesn't run with a lot of tackle strength on the second level. He can be a liability as a pass-blocker when isolated in one-on-one situations.
14. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville Jaguars
Watch: Jones-Drew highlights
Superpower -- Jones-Drew is an explosive playmaker who can break a big run from anywhere. He runs with excellent power and strength with enough toughness to be effective as an inside runner. If he can find a crease he can use his speed, balance and body control to make big plays. He has additional value in the passing game and as a return specialist.
Kryptonite -- He never has been the featured guy while playing behind Fred Taylor in Jacksonville. He lacks the size to be a consistently effective blocker, and there are some concerns about his ability to run between the tackles as an every-down player.
15. Jamal Lewis, Cleveland Browns
Superpower -- Lewis played at a very high level last season as the Browns' featured running back. He has a solid, thick frame and runs with a low center of gravity. He also shows good vision and the power to run between the tackles. Lewis breaks arm tackles and keeps his balance to gain extra yards after initial contact. He still has game-breaking ability and the other tools he needs to be productive.
Kryptonite -- His overall athletic ability has declined throughout his career. His first step, though effective, isn't as quick as it was in his 2,000-yard season of 2003. He doesn't provide much as a blocker in pass protection and is average at best as a receiver out of the backfield.
16. Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons
Watch: Turner highlights
Superpower -- Turner played behind Tomlinson in San Diego but showed enough to say he has the talent to give the Falcons a huge lift on first and second down. He was an excellent change-of-pace runner behind LT and runs with good pad level, showing good downhill acceleration when attacking holes. He is a very productive north-south runner.
Kryptonite -- He has never been a featured back and has earned limited playing time in his career. He is not very elusive in space and contributed mainly on first and second down with limited value as a receiver out of the backfield. He has not been consistent as a pass-blocker, either.
17. Brandon Jacobs, New York Giants
Superpower -- Jacobs has an excellent combination of size, strength and functional play speed. He is most effective when he uses his size to attack downhill between the tackles. He has good vision and run instincts with above-average speed and acceleration to get downhill and press the hole. He is a powerful runner who can lower his shoulder to gets yards after contact.
Kryptonite -- Jacobs has enough speed to get on the edge but is not a true home run threat. He has decent hands out of the backfield but still has a tendency to double-catch at times. He's not elusive as an open-field runner and struggles at times as a pass-blocker.
18. Laurence Maroney, New England Patriots
Superpower -- Maroney has shown flashes of everything the Patriots hoped he would be with his combination of speed, power and explosiveness. He has all the tools to be a productive front-line runner in the NFL. He is a natural jump-cutter with the ability to turn a short gain into an explosive downfield play. Kryptonite -- Maroney has not been consistent and has struggled with durability issues. He lacks the bulk to run over defenders and the size to consistently match up in pass protection schemes. He's not a natural receiver out of the backfield.
19. Ronnie Brown, Miami Dolphins
Superpower -- Brown is an extremely talented player who can contribute on first and second down. He is a tough, strong inside runner who has the ability to wear down defenses. He has an excellent combination of athleticism and size around which new head coach Tony Sparano can build his offensive system.
Kryptonite -- Injuries. Brown started the first seven games of the season last year before landing on injured reserve with a knee injury. He has never played a full 16-game season in his short career and has yet to prove he can carry a consistent load. Brown is more natural running behind a fullback and doesn't have much value as a receiver out of the backfield at this point in his career.
20. Ryan Grant, Green Bay Packers
Superpower -- Grant came out of nowhere last season to put up impressive numbers (five 100-yard games) in the Packers' zone-running scheme. He has good size, functional strength and play speed. He is a natural one-cut runner who has the speed and acceleration to press the hole. He is an instinctive runner with good vision through the hole.
Kryptonite -- Grant still needs to be more patient when getting on the second level. He has a tendency to try to bounce to the sideline instead of lowering his shoulder and running north-south on the second level. You don't see the consistent second gear on the second level. He's still a young player who lacks experience as a starter in a 16-game season.
21. Edgerrin James, Arizona Cardinals
Superpower -- Has good vision and acceleration to press the hole, and even though his longest run was 27 yards, James still managed to rush for 1,000 yards last season. Runs with a low center of gravity with good balance and control. Still has the speed to get outside on the edge with natural cutback ability. He can be an effective receiver out of the backfield.
Kryptonite -- He has shown declining skills and is not the same back he was a few years ago. He is no longer a threat to strike from anywhere on the field, is not much of a blocker and doesn't always give consistent effort in pass pro. Will put the ball on the ground at times in critical situations.
22. LenDale White, Tennessee Titans
Superpower -- He is a young player with outstanding size and lower-body strength. He is a physical runner who can be very effective as an inside runner. Has vision, control and the burst to bounce outside and attack different levels in the defense.
Kryptonite -- Not always going to be in the best shape and will always have weight and work ethic concerns. Lacks breakaway speed and is not elusive in open space. Must improve his pass pro skills.
23. Darren McFadden, Oakland Raiders
Superpower -- Easily the best football player in the 2008 draft. He is a very talented running back with the speed and quickness to be dangerous anywhere on the field. He is very elusive and runs with a purpose and has the ability to be a difference-maker at the next level. He should be the featured runner in Oakland from day one if he is signed and under contract. Kryptonite -- Lacks NFL experience and will need time to develop. He must improve his lower-body strength and run after contact on the second level. He will need a lot of refinement as a pass-blocker when reacting to zone dogs and blitzes.
24. Thomas Jones, New York Jets
Superpower -- He is a short, well-built athlete with excellent athleticism and deceptive power, and his presence last season allowed the Jets to rely more on a power rushing attack. He has excellent inline vision, foot agility, balance and quickness. He has patience to let blocking schemes develop while utilizing his ability to move the pile or elude defenders with short-area quickness and wiggle.
Kryptonite -- Thomas had his least productive season as a starter in 2007 behind a very ineffective offensive line. He has just adequate hands as a receiver out of the backfield and has shown only decent ability to run after the catch. Thomas is a willing pass-blocker but can get out-leveraged at times due to lack of height.
25. Reggie Bush, New Orleans Saints
Superpower -- If Bush is used properly within the offensive scheme, he has the speed and ability to make explosive plays in the running and passing games. He must be accounted for within the defensive game plan when involved in certain personnel groupings. He has great body control and quickness, game-changing speed and impressive instincts. He is a very good receiver who catches passes at full speed and is a dangerous runner after the catch.
Kryptonite -- He is not an every-down back. Bush lacks elite size and the bulk to move the pile, and is susceptible to wearing down. Does not do an effective job as a pass-blocker and still needs to improve his technique. He is only a multiple threat in the right kind of situations and personnel groupings.
26. Chester Taylor, Minnesota Vikings
Superpower -- There isn't really anything you can say he does poorly. He is a tough runner who also catches the ball well and is very capable of picking up the blitz. He is effective running outside or between the tackles. While he isn't the most dynamic runner around, he is an exceptional No. 2 that any team would love to have. It went under the radar a bit as he ended up being the backup to Adrian Peterson, but Taylor did rack up 844 yards on the ground last year and gained a whopping 5.4 yards per carry.
Kryptonite -- One word: Peterson. While Taylor doesn't excel in any one area, he would be the one posting impressive numbers if the Vikings hadn't taken Peterson in the 2007 draft. Hard to blame a guy for a situation like that.
27. DeAngelo Williams, Carolina Panthers
Superpower -- Williams has very good natural running skills. He sees a play develop, is patient letting his blockers to do their jobs and then explodes through the hole with excellent burst. He runs low and has very good balance. There is a lot to like about how he carries the football.
Kryptonite -- He has not gotten a true chance to show what he can do with a high number of carries. While he isn't an exceptional pile-mover inside and isn't built like a typical workhorse, he is productive when given the chance. With more touches -- which is now unlikely after the Panthers drafted Jonathan Stewart -- Williams could potentially break out.
28. Rudi Johnson, Cincinnati Bengals
Superpower -- He is tough, falls forward on contact and does an excellent job of taking what is given to him. He can wear a defense down and punish tacklers, which pays dividends late in games. Johnson had always been a player whom Cincinnati could count on to do the heavy lifting and get the tough yards, which opens up its dangerous passing game.
Kryptonite -- As evidenced by his paltry 2.9 yards per carry last year, the end might be approaching quickly for Johnson. He has a lot of wear and tear on his body and wasn't the niftiest guy to begin with. When pounding backs like Johnson lose the little burst and quickness that they have, getting out of the way of aggressive defenders becomes a big problem. This year is pivotal for Johnson's career.
29. Jonathan Stewart, Carolina Panthers
Superpower -- Stewart has a lot of big-play ability for a back of his size and should complement DeAngelo Williams very well. Carolina wants to pound the rock and Stewart should eventually see the bulk of the carries for the Panthers. He can wear a defense down and also has the ability to break long runs. Exactly what you are looking for in a first-round running back.
Kryptonite -- Like any rookie, adapting to the NFL will not be easy. But for Stewart it could be more difficult, because he is nursing a nagging toe injury. Although running back might be the easiest transitional position for first-year players, rookies need all the reps they can get, and Stewart is presently unable to perform due to his injury.
30. Rashard Mendenhall, Pittsburgh Steelers
Superpower -- The rookie is big and is very fast for such a powerful runner. He cuts sharply and wastes little motion and doesn't have to gear down when changing directions. He is a developing receiver who should only get better in this area. Pittsburgh is an excellent place for his short- and long-term development, and Mendenhall could have a very bright future.
Kryptonite -- Mendenhall carried the ball a lot during his one year as the starter at Illinois, but he was not asked to do much in the way of pass blocking. He has the mentality and physical ability to be a fine pass-blocker, but this is a difficult skill for a rookie to learn. It is tough to put a running back on the field if he will likely get his star quarterback blindsided by a blitzing linebacker.
31. Justin Fargas, Oakland Raiders
Superpower -- Fargas attacks the line of scrimmage with vigor and fights for yardage with impressive passion. He runs very hard and breaks tackles, but is still an explosive athlete with the speed to take it the distance. Fargas is the kind of guy you like to have in a rotation and should form a very productive pair with McFadden.
Kryptonite -- Because of his aggressiveness and high running style, Fargas has proved to be a durability risk. Adding another ball carrier to lighten his load will surely prolong his career and keep him fresh late in games and as the season progresses. He is a bit of a straight-line player and doesn't show the lateral agility of many of the top backs on this list.
32. Carnell Williams, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Superpower -- Williams can be a great running back with his rare vision, aggressiveness and natural running instincts. He plays the game with passion and has an excellent burst to attack a defense. It is difficult to predict how he will recover from his latest injury, but when he is right, there are few who run the ball like Williams.
Kryptonite -- He just cannot stay on the field. He runs extremely hard and isn't really built to take that kind of pounding. Making matters worse, he just seems to have bad luck when it comes to injuries. He very well could get healthy and re-establish himself a great back, but he might also never play effectively again.
33. Deuce McAllister, New Orleans Saints
Superpower -- Few backs have the combination of natural running ability, power and big-play ability that McAllister boasts. There really isn't anything that he can't do well on the field. Having McAllister back in the starting lineup at full health would allow New Orleans to better utilize Bush's impressive pass-catching ability.
Kryptonite -- Much like Cadillac Williams, McAllister's ability to stay on the field is a major issue. He is recovering from another serious knee injury and is getting to the age where players at his position begin their natural decline anyway. If he can get back to form and stay healthy, he will shoot right back up this list, but counting on him to do so is a risky proposition.
34. Kevin Jones, No team
Superpower -- His talent is apparent and Jones has a lot going for him when he is healthy. He can break long runs or carry the ball with power. He cuts sharply and shows good feet in tight quarters. There is surely a team out there that will jump on him once he proves he is recovered from injury.
Kryptonite -- Health is obviously a huge problem for Jones right now, because he is a talented player without a home. He has had a difficult time staying healthy over his short career and isn't really someone who a coach can comfortably count on to carry the load on a game-to-game basis.
35. Julius Jones, Seattle Seahawks
Superpower -- Jones is a talented running back with enough size, good speed and impressive explosiveness. While he wasn't much of a receiver in Dallas, he has the ability to step up in this department, especially in Seattle's pass-heavy attack. The change of scenery to the Northwest could do him a lot of good.
Kryptonite -- Jones' toughness has been called into question at times and there are certainly instances in which you would like to see him be more physical with the ball in his hands or in pass protection. He is also a bit of a tweener in that he isn't big enough to pound a defense or quick and elusive enough to be the ideal change-of-pace runner.
36. Travis Henry, no team
Superpower -- Henry is a powerful downhill runner who runs hard. He has excellent experience and knows what it takes to be successful at the highest level. He sees the play develop well and almost always gets every yard he can. Henry is a tough player to get on the ground as well.
Kryptonite -- Comes with some off-field concerns and might not be the kind of player that every team would welcome into its locker room. Henry also has a difficult time staying healthy and has to be considered a declining player at this advanced stage of his career. He also adds little as a pass-catcher and is a two-down player at best.
37. Earnest Graham, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Superpower -- You have to love Graham's effort and work ethic. Those traits paid off for him in a big way last year and he grabbed the Buccaneers' starting running back job by the throat. He is tough and reliable and will fight for every yard possible. Graham runs low, doesn't avoid contact and has a little wiggle to his running style. Despite his age, he also has very little wear on his tires.
Kryptonite -- Before last season Graham has only been a depth runner and special teams player. Physically, he isn't overwhelming in any area and his performance last season has to be considered at or near his ceiling. He isn't big and will need to be spelled at times to stay effective, and he should not be considered the running back of the future in Tampa Bay.
38. Warrick Dunn, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Superpower -- The Bucs will be thrilled to have Dunn back in the fold. He is the ultimate professional and has outstanding character. He does all the little things well and knows what it takes to be a success. His attitude should be infectious and he can be counted on to contribute to Jon Gruden's offense on any down. Not only has he put together a great career, but Dunn is also the type of player who is very easy to root for.
Kryptonite -- Many knock Dunn for being too small, but he has proved time and time again that he can get the job done. However, he isn't a back who you want to carry the entire load at this stage of his career and his exceptional quickness and elusiveness are beginning to fade.
39. Kevin Smith, Detroit Lions
Superpower -- A smooth glider with good acceleration out of his cuts. Has good hands and receiving skills, catches the ball easily and has good buildup speed in space. He has good strength and vision for his size and runs aggressively. Smith can bounce and slide effectively to find daylight. Not the biggest or fastest guy, but a good football player.
Kryptonite -- He's not a blazer and will run a little too upright at times. Lacks some initial burst and acceleration with the ball. Needs to improve his overall technique in pass protection in order to face up and play stout when taking on linebackers.
40. Jerious Norwood, Atlanta Falcons
Superpower -- He provides explosive speed as a change-of-pace runner for the Falcons. He has good burst into space on toss plays or when bouncing to the outside. Runs with good vision and instincts, doing a very good job making subtle moves at full speed and keeping his momentum alive to produce long gains. Also shows good hands as a receiver out of the backfield with the ability to outrun defenders after the catch.
Kryptonite -- He lacks nifty feet in tight areas in traffic. Will take extra steps to gear down or gather himself when attempting to make hard cuts and is missing power between the tackles and good pass pro awareness.