8th most accurate 2008 RB rankings as reported by FFLibraian in the New York Times.
2009 F.F.T. ReDraft Running Back Rankings (July. 1, 2009)
Note: Fantasy Points-based on 1 point per 10 yards rushing and receiving, 6 points for every rushing and receiving touchdown. Adjust accordingly to your league. Auction values based on $200 budget.
1. Adrian Peterson-Minnesota Vikings
Auction Value: $70
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 2
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 21
After only two seasons A.P. has become the best running back in the league and I believe he still has untapped upside. 2000 yards and 20 touchdowns are not out of the realm of possibilities, he is that good! I would like to see him become more involved in the passing game and if Brett Favre comes to town, I think that could be a distinct possibility. One thing he needs to work on his reducing his nine fumbles from last season.
(09’ Proj: 358 carries, 1750 yards, 14 touchdowns, 30 receptions, 240 yards, 1 touchdown) 289 Fantasy Points
2. Matt Forte-Chicago Bears
Auction Value: $68
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 27
Forte had a super rookie season posting 1238 yards rushing and eight touchdowns while adding 477 yards and four touchdowns receiving. The addition of Jay Cutler should take pressure off Forte allowing him to increase his 3.9 yards per carry average.
(09’ Proj: 323 carries, 1350 yards, 10 touchdowns, 70 receptions, 550 yards, 4 touchdowns) 274 Fantasy Points
3. Maurice Jones-Drew-Jacksonville Jaguars
Auction Value: $66
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 14
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 17
Fred Taylor is finally gone and M.J.D. gets his chance to be the workhorse, now it is just a matter of if he can handle the role. He is one of the few backs in the league that has a chance to put up 1000 yards rushing and 1000 yards receiving. My only concern is that his yards per carry average has gone down each season from 5.7 as a rookie, 4.6 in 2007, and only 4.2 last season.
(09’ Proj: 255 carries, 1050 yards, 13 touchdowns, 73 receptions, 660 yards, 3 touchdowns) 267 Fantasy Points
4. Michael Turner-Atlanta Falcons
Auction Value: $64
Bye Week: 4
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 24
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 43
I am not surprised that Turner was successful last season but there is no way I say 1669 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns in the works. Of course, I also did not think the Falcons would turn out to be a playoff team either. It will not be easy to match last season’s numbers but I fully expect the Falcons to once again use Turner as their workhorse. The one concern I have is that very few running backs that had the amount of carries Turner had last season follow it up with another amazing season.
(09’ Proj: 323 carries, 1500 yards, 15 touchdowns, 5 receptions, 40 yards, 0 touchdowns)
244 Fantasy Points
5. Chris Johnson-Tennessee Titans
Auction Value: $60
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 40
There may not be a running back with more upside than C.J., his speed, agility, and receiving ability makes him one of the best duel threats in the league. The only down side is the presence of LenDale White who gets the majority of the goal line carries.
(09’ Proj: 264 carries, 1270 yards, 10 touchdowns, 50 receptions, 440 yards, 2 touchdowns) 243 Fantasy Points
6. DeAngelo Williams-Carolina Panthers
Auction Value: $56
Bye Week: 4
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 28
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 19
I guess all DeAngelo needed was for the Panthers to draft a star rookie running back to light a fire under his ass. After racking up only 1218 yards and five touchdowns on 265 carries in his first two years, he broke out last year for 1515 yards and 18 touchdowns on just eight more carries. Jonathan Stewart will get his share of touches again this season but Williams looks likely is finally turning into the stud we predicted he would be coming out of Memphis.
(09’ Proj: 270 carries, 1330 yards, 14 touchdowns, 24 receptions, 120 yards, 1 touchdown)
235 Fantasy Points
7. Clinton Portis-Washington Redskins
Auction Value: $50
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 6
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 14
I predicted 1500 yards and 15 touchdowns for Portis last season, the yards were right on 1487 but the nine touchdowns were a disappointment. Portis does not get the same hype as many other running backs in the league but in my opinion he should. Take away 2006 when he only played in eight games and Portis has never rushed for less than 1262 yards in a season. Other backs may have more upside but you know what you are going to get with Portis.
(09’ Proj: 333 carries, 1400 yards, 11 touchdowns, 33 receptions, 260 yards, 0 touchdowns) 232 Fantasy Points
8. Brandon Jacobs-New York Giants
Auction Value: $48
Bye Week: 10
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 17
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 31
Jacobs could be a steal this season if he could just find a way to stay healthy. He has averaged 5 yards per carry each of the past two seasons, putting up over 1000 yards but only played 13 and 11 games. I expect the Giants to run more this season and while he may not match his 15 touchdowns, the rest of his stats should improve.
(09’ Proj: 240 carries, 1200 yards, 12 touchdowns, 30 receptions, 210 yards, 1 touchdown) 219 Fantasy Points
9. Steven Jackson-St. Louis Rams
Auction Value: $46
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 3
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 2
I love his potential and the fact that he will only be 26 this year but the fact that he has only played in all 16 games once in his career and only 12 games in each of the past two seasons concerns me. He showed in 2006 just how high he could soar but he needs Marc Bulger and the receiving core to find some semblance of a passing game to take the pressure off Jackson, if they falter, Jackson will be facing many eight and nine men fronts, however if they succeed then the sky is the limit for Jackson.
(09’ Proj: 300 carries, 1230 yards, 8 touchdowns, 45 receptions, 380 yards, 1 touchdown) 215 Fantasy Points
10. Frank Gore-San Francisco 49ers
Auction Value: $46
Bye Week: 6
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 7
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 4
Much like Steven Jackson, I love Gore’s potential but he has only played in all 16 games once in his career and has never put up more than eight rushing touchdowns. New offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye has implemented a run first and run often offense with a play action vertical passing game thrown in the mix. It would not be a surprise if Gore received more than his 312 career rushing attempts he put up in 2006.
(09’ Proj: 285 carries, 1260 yards, 7 touchdowns, 45 receptions, 360 yards, 1 touchdown) 210 Fantasy Points
11. Steve Slaton-Houston Texans
Auction Value: $44
Bye Week: 10
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 70
Sure, I ranked this guy at number 70 last season but at least I called him a sleeper that I would not bet against. A healthy Matt Schaub for a complete season would not only help the Texans have a much improved offense but can only take pressure off Slaton. I like the kid a lot but he will find it difficult to average 4.8 yards per carry again this season.
(09’ Proj: 275 carries, 1120 yards, 10 touchdowns, 40 receptions, 310 yards, 1 touchdown) 209 Fantasy Points
12. Pierre Thomas-New Orleans Saints
Auction Value: $40
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 59
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
The Saints thought enough of Thomas to not only pass on Beanie Wells but on every other running back in the draft as well. With Reggie Bush nothing more than a change-of-pace back that is used a majority of the time in the passing game, Thomas will be carrying the load. I expect big things out of Thomas and he could be the steal of the year.
(09’ Proj: 240 carries, 1110 yards, 10 touchdowns, 35 receptions, 310 yards, 1 touchdown) 208 Fantasy Points
13. LaDainian Tomlinson-San Diego Chargers
Auction Value: $38
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 1
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 1
L.T. is 30, has seen his numbers decrease each of the past three seasons, and he is no longer on top of the fantasy world BUT how can you just write off a guy who has never rushed for less than 1110 yards or 10 touchdowns in his eight year career. Throw in the fact that he has never had less than 51 receptions or 367 receiving yards and you have one of the best backs in NFL history. He will never approach his 2006 numbers (1815 yards, 28 touchdowns) but I am betting he still has at least one top 10 year in him.
(09’ Proj: 280 carries, 1020 yards, 10 touchdowns, 50 receptions, 380 yards, 1 touchdown) 206 Fantasy Points
14. Brian Westbrook-Philadelphia Eagles
Auction Value: $34
Bye Week: 4
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 4
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 9
Westbrook has only rushed for over 1000 yards twice in his career and has never rushed for double digit touchdowns but what he lacks in the rushing game he makes up for in the passing game. Over the past six seasons, he has averaged 65 receptions, 587 yards, and 5 touchdowns. He turns 30 this year, and likely will lose some carries to rookie LeSean McCoy but I still think his combined numbers will be a lot better than the majority of running backs.
(09’ Proj: 220 carries, 900 yards, 7 touchdowns, 58 receptions, 470 yards, 4 touchdowns) 203 Fantasy Points
15. Kevin Smith-Detroit Lions
Auction Value: $30
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 31
Despite playing for a team that was playing from behind every game Smith still had 238 carries for 976 yards, and eight touchdowns. Smith looks to be in the same situation most of the time this season and similar numbers can likely be expected.
(09’ Proj: 250 carries, 1050 yards, 7 touchdowns, 35 receptions, 250 yards, 1 touchdown) 178 Fantasy Points
16. Ronnie Brown-Miami Dolphins
Auction Value: $30
Bye Week: 6
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 19
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 15
Unlike many experts I am just not a big Brown fan, I know he has good upside and now that the Dolphins run the “wildcat” offense from time to time he is definitely fun to watch. The fact that he has never had more than 241 carries in any season, never had more than 1008 yards rushing, and only has two career touchdowns receiving are concerning. What really concerns me though is the fact that he finally played in all 16 games last season and he still only had 214 carries. He may repeat his 10 rushing touchdown performance of a year ago but the fact that he only had 13 in the previous three seasons combined says it is not likely. I do like Brown; I just do not think he is a top 15 running back but he is close.
(09’ Proj: 225 carries, 950 yards, 7 touchdowns, 35 receptions, 300 yards, 1 touchdown) 173 Fantasy Points
17. Marion Barber-Dallas Cowboys
Auction Value: $30
Bye Week: 6
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 9
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 23
Barber has limited upside but he is consistent and you know what you get. He will not get you many yards but he will get you touchdowns and you never have to question his worth ethic and heart. I expect Barber to get less carries this season with both Felix Jones and Tashard choice getting their share.
(09’ Proj: 195 carries, 800 yards, 8 touchdowns, 40 receptions, 280 yards, 2 touchdowns) 168 Fantasy Points
18. Ryan Grant-Green Bay Packers
Auction Value: $28
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 11
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
It seemed like Grant had a poor year in 2008 but he still rushed for over 1200 yards and had five total touchdowns, not number one fantasy numbers but not awful either. I keep thinking Brandon Jackson will take a chunk of Grant’s carries but the fact that he only had 45 carries in 13 games last season’s tells me the Packers do not think he is ready. I expect Grant to put up numbers somewhere in between what he has done the past two seasons.
(09’ Proj: 300 carries, 1200 yards, 6 touchdowns, 20 receptions, 120 yards, 0 touchdowns)
168 Fantasy Points
19. Darren McFadden-Oakland Raiders
Auction Value: $28
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 12
The one team I really have trouble predicting is the Raiders because they have been in such disarray for so long it is difficult to know what their plan is going to be. I am still a big McFadden fan but the presence of Justin Fargas and the emergence of Michael Bush will limit Big Mac’s carries this season. In the fantasy world, it is all about now and he may not be a number one now guy but do not write him off.
(09’ Proj: 185 carries, 800 yards, 6 touchdowns, 40 receptions, 380 yards, 2 touchdowns)
166 Fantasy Points
20. Marshawn Lynch-Buffalo Bills
Auction Value: $26
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 8
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 18
Lynch is suspended the first three games of the season which obviously hurts his ranking but he only played in 13 games his rookie season, posting 1115 yards and 7 touchdowns. I expect similar numbers this season.
(09’ Proj: 260 carries, 1050 yards, 6 touchdowns, 25 receptions, 200 yards, 0 touchdowns) 161 Fantasy Points
21. Knowshon Moreno-Denver Broncos
Auction Value: $26
Bye Week: 4
Rookie
The twelfth overall pick of the 2009 draft is arguably the best fantasy prospect of this class.
The Broncos have some running backs that will be in the mix for playing time but none of them are as talented as Moreno. Seven different running backs carried the ball for the Broncos last season and none of them carried it more than 76 times, look for Moreno to get at least twice as many carries this season.
(09’ Proj: 200 carries, 900 yards, 7 touchdowns, 28 receptions, 220 yards, 1 touchdown)
160 Fantasy Points
22. Jamal Lewis-Cleveland Browns
Auction Value: $24
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 16
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 32
He will turn 30 in August and is no longer near the running back he was when he rushed for over 2000 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2003 but he still rushed for over 1000 yards for a dismal Browns offense last season. The Browns are counting on at least one more solid season out of Lewis.
(09’ Proj: 285 carries, 1080 yards, 5 touchdowns, 27 receptions, 210 yards, 0 touchdowns)
159 Fantasy Points
23. Reggie Bush-New Orleans Saints
Auction Value: $24
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 20
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 8
After three years, it is obvious that a) Bush is not, and never will be, a feature back and b) he is injury prone, missing 10 games over the past two seasons. He is still a threat to take it to the house any time he has the ball in his hands but his real value is PPR (points per reception) leagues and leagues that award points for individual return men.
(09’ Proj: 150 carries, 550 yards, 4 touchdowns, 70 receptions, 560 yards, 4 touchdowns) 159 Fantasy Points
24. LenDale White-Tennessee Titans
Auction Value: $24
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 22
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 41
I have to admit I am not a White fan but how much can you really put down a guy that found the end zone 15 times last year? He is a slow lumbering back with only a 3.8 career yards per carry average and has been known to have a poor off-season work ethic but word out of Titans camp is that White is in shape and ready to go. Chris Johnson will continue to get the attention, as well as the yards, but White again will be the short yardage master.
(09’ Proj: 195 carries, 750 yards, 13 touchdowns, 13 receptions, 50 yards, 0 touchdowns)
158 Fantasy Points
25. Thomas Jones-New York Jets
Auction Value: $22
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 30
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 22
Jones disproved the theory that 30-year-old running backs are past their prime by posting career highs in rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, and receiving touchdowns. Now can he disprove the theory that 31 year old’s are even less apt to have anything less in the tank. I believe his age along with the Jets quarterback situation brings Jones’s statistics back to earth.
(09’ Proj: 250 carries, 1000 yards, 6 touchdowns, 33 receptions, 200 yards, 0 touchdowns)
156 Fantasy Points
26. Derrick Ward-Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Auction Value: $22
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 57
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
Ward posted 1025 rushing yards on only 182 carries last season and now will get a chance to shine as the feature back in Tampa. There is reason for concern however, Ward will be 29 at the end of August and only scored twice last season. He will likely lose goal-line carries to Earnest Graham and at least for now Cadillac Williams is in the mix as well.
(09’ Proj: 200 carries, 850 yards, 5 touchdowns, 35 receptions, 280 yards, 1 touchdown)
149 Fantasy Points
27. Cedric Benson-Cincinnati Bengals
Auction Value: $20
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 67
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 24
Benson is a very intriguing player in my mind, after underachieving for three years in Chicago he came to Cincinnati and ran for 747 yards in 12 games with defenses gearing up to stop the run with Carson Palmer out. The return of Palmer should open up the running game and the Bengals have proven in the past with Rudi Johnson and Kenny Watson that they will run the ball if it is effective. I believe there is excellent upside for Benson as long he keeps his head on straight.
(09’ Proj: 250 carries, 950 yards, 5 touchdowns, 30 receptions, 230 yards, 0 touchdowns) 148 Fantasy Points
28. Larry Johnson-Kansas City Chiefs
Auction Value: $20
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 10
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 3
In 2005 and 2006 you would have been hard pressed to find a better back than Johnson but in the past two seasons he has only combined for 1433 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns, both less than either 2006 or 2007’s numbers. Take away those two years and Johnson has never played in more than 12 games in his six-year career. L.J. did average 4.5 yards per carry last season while rushing for 874 yards and five touchdowns in only 12 games so he may still have some gas left in the tank but he is no longer the elite back he was just three years ago.
(09’ Proj: 220 carries, 900 yards, 7 touchdowns, 20 receptions, 130 yards, 0 touchdowns)
145 Fantasy Points
29. Willis McGahee-Baltimore Ravens
Auction Value: $18
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 13
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 13
Each year I predict a breakout season for Big Willie and each year I come away disappointed, well not this time. He just cannot stay healthy and even though he should again be the Ravens number one back, he will still share carries with Ray Rice and Le’Ron McClain. Maybe now that I have talked him down he will finally have the 1200 yards and 12 touchdowns breakout season I keep waiting for, but I am no longer counting on it.
(09’ Proj: 230 carries, 920 yards, 6 touchdowns, 27 receptions, 170 yards, 0 touchdowns)
145 Fantasy Points
30. Julius Jones-Seattle Seahawks
Auction Value: $16
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 38
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 26
Maurice Morris left for Detroit so Jones should receive more than 158 and 164 carries that is all he racked up the past two seasons with a combined four touchdowns. He has only eclipsed the 1000-yard mark once in his career and has only totaled more than five touchdowns once. T.J. Duckett will continue to get his share of the carries, especially in the red zone. I think 1000 yards and five touchdowns is pretty much the best I can envision for J.J.
(09’ Proj: 230 carries, 940 yards, 5 touchdowns, 25 receptions, 210 yards, 0 touchdowns) 145 Fantasy Points
31. Joseph Addai-Indianapolis Colts
Auction Value: $16
Bye Week: 6
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 5
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 5
In 2007 Addai posted 15 total touchdowns, the same total he posted in 2006 and 2008 combined in 28 games. The fact that the Colts drafted Mike Hart last season and brought back veteran Dominic Rhodes then drafted Donald Brown this season is an indication of how much confidence they have in Addai’s ability to repeat his 2007 numbers. Addai could surprise but do not be the one to over pay for him.
(09’ Proj: 200 carries, 780 yards, 6 touchdowns, 30 receptions, 240 yards, 1 touchdown) 144 Fantasy Points
32. Jonathan Stewart-Carolina Panthers
Auction Value: $14
Bye Week: 4
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 26
DeAngelo Williams got the majority of the pub last season and for good reason but Stewart still rushed for 836 yards and 10 touchdowns on 184 carries. Expect similar numbers again this season. The only thing holding him back, aside from Williams, is his non-factor in the passing game. In touchdown only leagues he rates much higher.
(09’ Proj: 200 carries, 900 yards, 8 touchdowns, 12 receptions, 60 yards, 0 touchdowns)
144 Fantasy Points
33. Willie Parker-Pittsburgh Steelers
Auction Value: $12
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 18
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 6
Fast Willie is still the Steelers number one back but I expect a healthy Rashard Mendenhall to receive his fair share of carries this season. Take away 2006 when Parker rushed for 1494 yards and 13 touchdowns while adding three more receiving and Parker has only 12 combined total touchdowns in his four other seasons.
(09’ Proj: 250 carries, 1030 yards, 4 touchdowns, 20 receptions, 150 yards, 0 touchdowns) 142 Fantasy Points
34. Fred Jackson-Buffalo Bills
Auction Value: $10
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 79
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
Jackson is a great story, going from the Bills practice squad to a back up with fantasy value in just a few years. He racked up 571 yards and three touchdowns last season on 130 carries while adding another 317 yards on 37 receptions. He will be even more valuable this season with Marshawn Lynch slated to miss the first three games due to suspension Jackson will move into the starting role before returning to one of the better handcuffs in the league once Lynch returns.
(09’ Proj: 150 carries, 660 yards, 5 touchdowns, 40 receptions, 330 yards, 1 touchdown) 135 Fantasy Points
35. Ray Rice-Baltimore Ravens
Auction Value: $10
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 55
Rice spent his rookie season sitting behind not only Willis McGahee as expected but Le’Ron McClain as well, unexpected. Rice still managed to rush for 454 yards on 107 carries while adding 273 yards on 33 receptions but never found the end zone. McClain is expected to return to his natural fullback position this season and McGahee has always had trouble staying healthy so Rice should be more of a factor this season.
(09’ Proj: 170 carries, 700 yards, 3 touchdowns, 40 receptions, 320 yards, 1 touchdown) 126 Fantasy Points
36. Felix Jones-Dallas Cowboys
Auction Value: $10
Bye Week: 6
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 37
I would have liked to see what Jones could have done over a full season after seeing him rush for 266 yards and three touchdowns on just 30 carries in six games. I love this kid’s potential and he is the perfect lightening to Marion Barber’s thunder much like Chris Johnson and LenDale White in Tennessee. There is a chance that Jones could end up starting ahead of Barber the way Julius Jones did a couple of years ago but there is also a chance that Tashard Choice gets his share of carries. I believe Jones has the most upside of the three and could be a super steal.
(09’ Proj: 150 carries, 750 yards, 6 touchdowns, 15 receptions, 100 yards, 0 touchdowns) 121 Fantasy Points
37. Beanie Wells-Arizona Cardinals
Auction Value: $10
Bye Week: 7
Rookie
Wells fell into a perfect situation in Arizona with Edgerrin James gone and only Tim Hightower as his real competition. The Cardinals have one of the best passing games in the league, which should take pressure off the running game, and while Hightower will again receive a majority of the goal-line work Wells has the inside track on being the feature back. The Cardinals will still be a pass first offense but Wells has the potential to put up low-end number two fantasy numbers with number one potential in the future.
(09’ Proj: 170 carries, 750 yards, 6 touchdowns, 9 receptions, 60 yards, 0 touchdowns)
117 Fantasy Points
38. Donald Brown-Indianapolis Colts
Auction Value: $10
Bye Week: 6
Rookie
Had a magical season last year at UConn as the only division I player to rush for 2000+ yards while adding 18 touchdowns. Joseph Addai will remain the Colts starter but Brown will get plenty of opportunities and history has shown us that backs with less talent have been valuable fantasy weapons for the Colts, i.e. Dominic Rhodes and Kenton Keith. Brown has the potential to take over Addai’s role in the next couple of years if Addai cannot stay healthy.
(09’ Proj: 150 carries, 700 yards, 5 touchdowns, 20 receptions, 160 yards, 0 touchdowns)
116 Fantasy Points
39. Chester Taylor-Minnesota Vikings
Auction Value: $8
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 33
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 39
He turns 30 in September and is second fiddle to Adrian Peterson but he has proven to be an excellent second fiddle and is arguably the best handcuff in the league. He has proven a capable starter, if A.P. were to go down, rushing for over 1200 yards and six touchdowns the year before his Purple Majesty came to town.
(09’ Proj: 130 carries, 530 yards, 4 touchdowns, 38 receptions, 310 yards, 1 touchdown)
114 Fantasy Points
40. Ahmad Bradshaw-New York Giants
Auction Value: $8
Bye Week: 10
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 45
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 93
Despite sitting behind Brandon Jacobs and Derrick Ward last season Bradshaw still posted 355 rushing yards and a touchdown on just 67 carries while adding another receiving touchdown. Derrick Ward went to Tampa Bay in the off-season so Bradshaw should see his role and thus his numbers increase this season. He is an injury to Jacobs away from having excellent fantasy value.
(09’ Proj: 150 carries, 750 yards, 4 touchdowns, 15 receptions, 110 yards, 1 touchdown)
110 Fantasy Points
41. Tim Hightower-Arizona Cardinals
Auction Value: $8
Bye Week: 4
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
I called Tim Hightower a sleeper last season but somehow he did not end up in my rankings last year, well that is not going to happen again this year. The Cardinals released Edgerrin James but brought in Beanie Wells to take his place, which could limit Hightower’s role to the goal line again this season, we can deal with that if he puts up another 10 touchdowns. The one thing that really sticks out to me is his pathetic 2.8 yards per carry average; yes, his total is slightly skewed by his goal-line carries but not by much.
(09’ Proj: 150 carries, 510 yards, 7 touchdowns, 20 receptions, 150 yards, 0 touchdowns)
108 Fantasy Points
42. LeSean McCoy-Philadelphia Eagles
Auction Value: $8
Bye Week: 4
Rookie
Going to the Eagles looks like a match made in heaven not only for McCoy and the Eagles but for fantasy owners as well. I compare McCoy to a bigger Warrick Dunn, which gives him value similar to the man listed ahead of him on the depth chart right now, Brian Westbrook. McCoy looks like the future back of the Eagles and I love his upside. As long as Westbrook is healthy, McCoy will not have a lot of value but Westbrook will be 30 years old and has had a history of injuries so McCoy could turn out to be a very nice sleeper.
(09’ Proj: 150 carries, 650 yards, 3 touchdowns, 20 receptions, 170 yards, 1 touchdown)
106 Fantasy Points
43. Jerious Norwood-Atlanta Falcons
Auction Value: $6
Bye Week: 4
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 47
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 36
Norwood is kind of becoming a Michael Turner, a guy who looks like he would be a solid sleeper that just does not have his chance yet. As long as Turner is healthy Norwood will not do much more than what he’s done for the past three years but that is still enough to give him top 50 value. One thing to keep in mind is that Turner had a lot of carries last season and history shows that a number of backs do not make it through the next season uninjured so Norwood could turn out to be a very valuable handcuff to Turner just in case.
(09’ Proj: 110 carries, 500 yards, 3 touchdowns, 30 receptions, 270 yards, 1 touchdown)
101 Fantasy Points
44. Sammy Morris-New England Patriots
Auction Value: $6
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 43
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 78
Despite missing three games last season, Morris set career highs in carries, yards, yard per carry average, and touchdowns. Morris has only 615 career carries so his legs are fresh but he is 32 years old and now has to compete with Fred Taylor as well as Laurence Maroney, Kevin Faulk, and BenJarvis Green-Ellis. I am just skeptical about a 10-year guy who only averages 5.4 carries per game but he will have some quality games, good luck pegging them tough, that is just the way it is with the Patriots.
(09’ Proj: 130 carries, 540 yards, 5 touchdowns, 17 receptions, 130 yards, 0 touchdowns) 97 Fantasy Points
45. Earnest Graham-Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Auction Value: $6
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 21
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
He hit his ceiling in 2007 rushing for 898 yards and 10 touchdowns, better numbers across the board than the other four years of his career combined. The addition of Derrick Ward and the possibility of a healthy Cadillac Williams will limit Graham’s numbers. He should see some goal line carries which the only thing is giving him much value at this point.
(09 Proj: 120 carries, 520 yards, 5 touchdowns, 20 receptions, 140 yards, 0 touchdowns)
96 Fantasy Points
46. Leon Washington-New York Jets
Auction Value: $6
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 56
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 51
Much like Darren Sproles, I do not see any chance that Washington will ever be a feature back due to his size and last season’s numbers may have been the ceiling for Washington. He is still a nice handcuff for Thomas Jones owners and will have quality games like last year but good luck picking the right games to start him.
(09’ Proj: 75 carries, 360 yards, 4 touchdowns, 40 receptions, 300 yards, 1 touchdown)
96 Fantasy Points
47. Darren Sproles-San Diego Chargers
Auction Value: $6
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 68
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
I am not near as high on Sproles as many people, I love his jitterbug moves as much as the next guy but I see very limited fantasy production unless you are in leagues that award extra points for running back receiving and special teams statistics. He will see time again as a change-of-pace back to LaDainian Tomlinson but if L.T. were to go down to injury I do not see the Chargers going with the 5’6” Sproles as their feature back. Numbers similar to last season is all you can expect in my opinion.
(09’ Proj: 70 carries, 320 yards, 2 touchdowns, 35 receptions, 330 yards, 3 touchdowns)
95 Fantasy Points
48. Jamaal Charles-Kansas City Chiefs
Auction Value: $4
Bye Week: 8
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 58
Larry Johnson is still the main man in KC but he has only played in 20 games over the past two seasons and Charles showed last season he has the tools to succeed if given the chance. He gained 357 yards on 67 carries while adding 272 yards and a touchdown on 27 receptions. I look for improved numbers from Charles over the next few years.
(09’ Proj: 100 carries, 460 yards, 2 touchdowns, 30 receptions, 290 yards, 1 touchdown)
93 Fantasy Points
49. Le’Ron McClain-Baltimore Ravens
Auction Value: $4
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 13
Nobody could have seen last season coming from a player that started out the season as a fullback and had eight carries for 18 yards in 2007. Last season he took advantage of the injuries to Willis McGhaee and the youth of Ray Rice to rush for 902 yards and 10 touchdowns on 232 carries while adding a receiving touchdown. McGahee returns to the starting role and Ray Rice will be his primary backup while McClain returns to his natural fullback role. What exactly that means for his fantasy value remains to be seen but it is hard to envision him not at least getting a majority of the goal-line carries.
(09’ Proj: 110 carries, 400 yards, 7 touchdowns, 10 receptions, 60 yards, 0 touchdowns)
88 Fantasy Points
50. Ricky Williams-Miami Dolphins
Auction Value: $4
Bye Week: 6
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 32
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
Williams is 32, has only combined for 334 carries since 2003, he had 392 carries in 2003, and with Ronnie Brown, finally healthy Williams may see the ball less this season. I still think he is a valuable handcuff for Brown with the potential to a possible number two if Brown goes down again. The bottom line is that 32-year-old running backs generally just do not have a lot left in the tank.
(09’ Proj: 140 carries, 550 yards, 2 touchdowns, 25 receptions, 190 yards, 0 touchdowns) 86 Fantasy Points
51. Michael Bush-Oakland Raiders
Auction Value: $4
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 81
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 44
I will be the first to admit that I was not a Bush fan but I was impressed with his 421 yards and three touchdowns last season on only 95 carries, OK so it does not take much to impress me. Darren McFadden and Justin Fargas are both currently listed ahead of Bush on the depth chart but Bush should see the majority of the goal line carries which gives him at least some value. I am going from calling this guy a bust last season to calling him a sleeper to watch this season.
(09’ Proj: 100 carries, 440 yards, 4 touchdowns, 23 receptions, 170 yards, 0 touchdowns) 85 Fantasy Points
52. T.J. Duckett-Seattle Seahawks
Auction Value: $4
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 44
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 55
Duckett only carried the ball 62 times last season and did not have a single reception but he still fan for eight touchdowns. Julius Jones will be the Seahawks number one option again this season but Duckett will again be the goal line back and should receive more carries with Maurice Morris going to Detroit.
(09’ Proj: 110 carries, 400 yards, 7 touchdowns, 3 receptions, 20 yards, 0 touchdowns)
84 Fantasy Points
53. Kevin Faulk-New England Patriots
Auction Value: $4
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 92
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 61
Faulk never did turn into the superstar I thought he would be coming out of LSU 11 years ago but he continues to have value, especially in points per receptions leagues despite the fact that he is now 33 years old. Thanks in part to a slew of injuries to Patriots backs last season Faulk rushed for 507 yards and three touchdowns on 83 carries while adding 58 receptions for 486 yards and three touchdowns. I expect a crash back to reality this season.
(09’ Proj: 70 carries, 320 yards, 1 touchdown, 45 receptions, 370 yards, 1 touchdown)
81 Fantasy Points
54. Brandon Jackson-Green Bay Packers
Auction Value: $4
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 60
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 37
I like the potential for the former third round pick but after two seasons, he only has 120 carries for 515 yards and two touchdowns. Ryan Grant is the clear-cut number one but at least Jackson has some value in the receiving game, at this point, which is about as good as it gets.
(09’ Proj: 80 carries, 320 yards, 1 touchdown, 40 receptions, 320 yards, 1 touchdown)
76 Fantasy Points
55. Rashard Mendenhall-Pittsburgh Steelers
Auction Value: $4
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 46
The Steelers drafted Mendenhall to be the running back of the future for the Steelers while contributing right away. He may very well still be the future but his rookie season was a bust due in part because he ended up on injured reserve but also due to his pathetic pre-season in which could not hang onto the ball. As long as he has learned to hold onto the ball and can stay healthy, he should be a capable backup this season. This could turn out to be a very high risk/high reward pick.
(09’ Proj: 110 carries, 450 yards, 3 touchdowns, 10 receptions 80 yards, 0 touchdowns)
71 Fantasy Points
56. Laurence Maroney-New England Patriots
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 15
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 11
I loved this kid coming out of Minnesota but after three years in New England, the love is gone. On the positive side he is only 24 years old and has put up decent numbers when the Patriots use him, the problem is the Patriots do not have the need to utilize him very often. He only played in three games last season and now will lose carries to Sammy Morris and Fred Taylor. I still think he could be a star but not until his time ends in New England.
(09’ Proj: 100 carries, 450 yards, 3 touchdowns, 8 receptions, 70 yards, 0 touchdowns)
70 Fantasy Points
57. Mewelde Moore-Pittsburgh Steelers
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 72
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 65
Moore took advantage of a struggling and injured Rashard Mendenhall to post 588 yards and five touchdowns on 140 carries while adding 326 yards and one touchdown on 40 receptions. Willie Parker and Mendenhall are the clear one and two options but Moore is a perfect change-of-pace option in this offense. As long as these two are healthy, Moore’s chances will be limited but he showed last season that value is possible.
(09’ Proj: 70 carries, 290 yards, 2 touchdowns, 24 receptions, 200 yards, 1 touchdown)
67 Fantasy Points
58. Chris Brown-Houston Texans
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 10
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 42
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 47
Brown spent the 2008 season on IR and has yet to play an entire 16 game season in his six-year career but as long as he is healthy, he has some potential fantasy value. Steve Slaton cemented his spot as the number one last season but the number two role is an open competition with Brown battling Ryan Moats, Clifton Dawson, and two undrafted rookies. Brown has rushed for over five touchdowns in three different seasons so he has the potential to at worst be a goal-line back, especially with Steve Slaton’s small frame. Brown is a total crapshoot who could end up as the Texans starter if anything happened to Slaton or he may not even make the team. Buyers beware.
(09’ Proj: 80 carries, 300 yards, 4 touchdowns, 15 receptions, 120 yards, 0 touchdowns)
66 Fantasy Points
59. Maurice Morris-Detroit Lions
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 39
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 53
For years, he sat behind Shaun Alexander waiting for his shot but after seven years, it is obvious why he has been a career backup for the most part. Five career touchdowns just is not going to cut it! He had 132 carries last season and not a single touchdown, but he did add a couple of receiving one’s at least. He will backup Kevin Smith in Detroit and likely put up numbers similar to the past few years.
(09’ Proj: 100 carries, 400 yards, 2 touchdowns, 15 receptions, 120 yards, 0 touchdowns)
64 Fantasy Points
60. Cadillac Williams-Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 78
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 16
After a rookie season where he posted 1178 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns in 14 games he has only combined for 1239 yards and 8 touchdowns in 24 games since. He came back from a major injury to play in six games last season, carrying the ball 63 times for 233 yards and four touchdowns. It is hard to say just how much the Bucs plan on using Cadillac this season but it could be enough to limit the value of Derrick Ward and Earnest Graham. Cadillac is a long shot to have any fantasy value and his career 3.8 yards per carry average must improve but it is worth monitoring his status during camp.
(09’ Proj: 100 carries, 380 yards, 3 touchdowns, 13 receptions, 70 yards, 0 touchdowns)
63 Fantasy Points
61. Justin Fargas-Oakland Raiders
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 35
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 83
Fargas could end up being the odd man out with Darren McFadden and Michael Bush both having more upside. Despite being 6’1” 220 lbs he only has seven career touchdowns on 698 career carries and has minimal value as a receiver with only 60 career receptions for 410 yards and 0 touchdowns in six years. I am not a Fargas fan but a lot of that could be the fact that I owned LaMont Jordan in 2007 when Fargas was given the starting role after Jordan was injured and despite the fact that Jordan was having a monster season the Raiders stupidly kept Fargas in the lead role while Jordan found his way to the dog house. I know, let it go man.
(09 Proj: 140 carries, 530 yards, 1 touchdown, 6 receptions, 40 yards, 0 touchdowns)
63 Fantasy Points
62. Shonn Greene-New York Jets
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 9
Rookie
I know a lot of people do not believe that Greene will ever have any fantasy value and maybe they will end up being correct but I like Greene. He ran for over 100 yards in every game last season for Iowa despite facing nine men fronts all season. Thomas Jones is on the wrong side of 30 and Leon Washington is a scat back that does not have the frame to be an every down back. Greene should get some carries this season with the possibility of being the feature back in the next couple of years, which gives him excellent dynasty potential.
(09’ Proj: 100 carries, 400 yards, 3 touchdowns, 6 receptions, 40 yards, 0 touchdowns)
62 Fantasy Points
63. Tashard Choice-Dallas Cowboys
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 6
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
Choice was not ranked in our top 96 last season but we did list him among the others to watch and we were not surprised at all by his success last season. As long as both Marion Barber and Felix Jones are healthy, Choice will be the Cowboys third option but his value increases substantially if either is out of the lineup.
(09’ Proj: 80 carries, 380 yards, 2 touchdowns, 15 receptions, 120 yards, 0 touchdowns)
60 Fantasy Points
64. Correll Buckhalter-Denver Broncos
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 88
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 58
I liked Buckhalter’s chances to have decent fantasy value before the NFL draft, but when the Broncos drafted Knowshon Moreno things have changed, especially when Buckhalter has to beat out LaMont Jordan just to be the Broncos primary backup. Numbers similar to last season would be a success.
(09’ Proj: 70 carries, 320 yards, 2 touchdowns, 17 receptions, 130 yards, 0 touchdowns)
57 Fantasy Points
65. Dominic Rhodes-Buffalo Bills
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 74
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 48
Rhodes proved again last season to be a valuable backup, posting 538 rushing yards and six touchdowns to go along with 302 receiving yards and another three touchdowns. He will not have near the value this season for the Bills. He will be behind Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson.
(09’ Proj: 80 carries, 300 yards, 2 touchdowns, 18 receptions, 140 yards, 0 touchdowns)
56 Fantasy Points
66. Fred Taylor-New England Patriots
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 29
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 29
I know some people are high on Taylor now that he is in New England but I just cannot jump on that wagon. Taylor is 33 and has only played a complete 16 game season twice in his career, the last being in 2003. He may be a nice change-of-pace back for the Patriots but I just do not see a lot of fantasy potential at this point in his career.
(09’ Proj: 100 carries, 380 yards, 2 touchdowns, 8 receptions, 50 yards, 0 touchdowns)
55 Fantasy Points
67. Ladell Betts-Washington Redskins
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 51
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 34
Betts proved in 2006 that he has potential to be more than just a handcuff option rushing for 1154 yards on 245 carries while adding 445 yards on 53 receptions but he only scored five total touchdowns. He has never had more than 93 carries in any other season of his seven-year career.
(09’ Proj: 80 carries, 330 yards, 1 touchdown, 20 receptions, 160 yards, 0 touchdowns)
55 Fantasy Points
68. LaMont Jordan-Denver Broncos
Auction Value: $2
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 71
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 28
Jordan will be 31 in November and aside from 2005 when he gained 1025 yards rushing and nine touchdowns he has not rushed for more than 549 yards or scored more than four touchdowns prior or since. I think Jordan should see some goal line work in Denver this season and some change-of-pace carries but unless Knowshon Moreno and Correll Buckhalter falter or come up lame I do not expect much more than that.
(09’ Proj: 70 carries, 260 yards, 4 touchdowns, 7 receptions, 45 yards, 0 touchdowns)
55 Fantasy Points
69. Edgerrin James-Free Agent
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: NA
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 34
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 25
At this point Edge does not even have a home so it is difficult to predict his possible 2009 numbers but we do know that he turns 31 in August and is clearly on his last legs. Luckily, for him his last legs are still better than quite a few backup’s good legs around the league. You have to figure at some point a team will swoop him up but at this point, I just cannot see numbers any better than last seasons.
(09’ Proj: 100 carries, 360 yards, 2 touchdowns, 8 receptions, 60 yards, 0 touchdowns)
54 Fantasy Points
70. Jason Wright-Arizona Cardinals
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: 4
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 74
Wright has only rushed for 588 yards and two touchdowns on 159 carries in his five-year career along with 486 yards and one touchdown on 55 receptions so he is not exactly a proven talent but signing with Arizona gives him some sleeper potential. Tim Hightower is a touchdown vulture but I do not believe he has what it takes to be an every down back and this point and rookie Beanie Wells is still an unknown. At worst Wright adds value as a receiver.
(09’ Proj: 50 carries, 180 yards, 0 touchdowns, 35 receptions, 300 yards, 1 touchdown)
54 Fantasy Points
71. Leonard Weaver-Philadelphia Eagles
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: 4
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
Arguably, the best fantasy fullback in the league, not that it means much. Going to the Eagles actually does give him some potential as he could see some red zone work and he has value as a receiver as well.
(09’ Proj: 35 carries, 140 yards, 2 touchdowns, 25 receptions, 200 yards, 1 touchdown)
52 Fantasy Points
72. Brian Leonard-Cincinnati Bengals
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 80
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 84
After rushing for 303 yards on 86 carries while adding 183 yards on 30 receptions in 2007 Leonard missed 14 games with an injury and he had off-season shoulder surgery for the second consecutive season. Leonard is the kind of guy NFL teams love, he can play running back, he can play fullback, he can block, he can run, and he can catch but from a fantasy perspective his potential is limited. He could have some value depending on how the Bengals decide to use him, but his upside is still limited.
(09’ Proj: 70 carries, 250 yards, 1 touchdown, 20 receptions, 130 yards, 1 touchdown)
50 Fantasy Points
73. Jerome Harrison-Cleveland Browns
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 79
Jamal Lewis turns 30 this season and the Browns would like to keep his legs fresh, enter Harrison. While he only has 77 career carries to go along with 23 receptions in three seasons, Harrison does have a career 5.8 yards per carry average and scored his first two career touchdowns last season. Do not expect big numbers but he does have nice sleeper potential if Lewis is out of the lineup for any amount of time.
(09’ Proj: 60 carries, 270 yards, 1 touchdown, 15 receptions, 130 yards, 0 touchdowns)
46 Fantasy Points
74. Chauncey Washington-Jacksonville Jaguars
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
With Fred Taylor departed for snowier pastures in New England the backup role for Maurice Jones-Drew is wide open with Washington, Greg Jones, and rookie Rashad Jennings in the mix. I am betting that Jones stays at his natural fullback position and while I do like Jennings I believe that Washington wins the gig and he has very good sleeper potential.
(09’ Proj: 50 carries, 150 yards, 3 touchdowns, 13 receptions, 90 yards, 0 touchdowns)
42 Fantasy Points
75. Patrick Cobbs-Miami Dolphins
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: 6
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 96
Assuming Cobbs does not sign with another team or is not released he will be the Dolphins third option behind Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams just like last season. While he only had 12 carries, he did gain 88 yards and one touchdown while adding 275 yards and two touchdowns on 19 receptions. While only 5’8” he has a large 205 lb frame and good speed. Likely will not have much value unless Brown or Williams comes up lame but both have had a history of doing just that so Cobbs has deep sleeper potential.
(09’ Proj: 20 carries, 90 yards, 0 touchdowns, 25 receptions, 250 yards, 1 touchdown)
40 Fantasy Points
76. Greg Jones-Jacksonville Jaguars
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: 7
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 91
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 82
Fred Taylor is gone and Maurice Jones-Drew is now the feature back, a role he must prove he can handle. Jones will battle, Chauncey Washington, and rookie Rashad Jennings for playing time. Jones may very well remain at his natural fullback position where his chances will be limited but he likely will steal a couple of touchdowns at some point.
(09’ Proj: 30 carries, 110 yards, 2 touchdowns, 10 receptions, 90 yards, 1 touchdown)
38 Fantasy Points
77. Antonio Pittman-St. Louis Rams
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: 9
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 82
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 95
Pittman showed some potential last season but he also ended the season third on the depth chart behind Kenneth Darby and there is cause for concern with Pittman’s 3.7 yards per carry average in his 117 career rushes and he has yet to find the end zone. I think he ends up as Jackson’s primary backup but he must show improvement to have any fantasy value.
(09’ Proj: 50 carries, 200 yards, 1 touchdown, 10 receptions, 80 yards, 0 touchdowns)
34 Fantasy Points
78. Glen Coffee-San Francisco 49ers
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: 6
Rookie
Coffee spilled into an excellent cup in San Fran with only injury prone Frank Gore ahead of him on the depth chart, assuming of course that he can beat out Michael Robinson for the honor. I like Coffee in this battle but I have to say that I think he looks like a decaf player that is lacking all of the ingredients to be Grande. All this coffee talk has me thinking it is time to take a break and make a Starbucks run.
(09’ Proj: 50 carries, 200 yards, 1 touchdown, 10 receptions, 80 yards, 0 touchdowns)
34 Fantasy Points
79. DeShawn Wynn-Green Bay Packers
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 84
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 94
Wynn is talented and proved in 2007 that he can fill in if needed; rushing for 203 yards and four touchdowns on 50 carries in just seven games. The problem is that both Ryan Grant and Brandon Jackson are head of him on the depth chart at this point. If Grant were to go out with an injury, Wynn and Jackson may share the load giving Wynn more value than a number of players on this list.
(09’ Proj: 30 carries, 140 yards, 2 touchdowns, 5 receptions, 40 yards, 0 touchdowns)
30 Fantasy Points
80. Peyton Hillis-Denver Broncos
Auction Value: $1
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
The Broncos had so many injuries last season that rookie fullback Hillis had to fill in at running back and did more than an adequate job, rushing for 343 yards and five touchdowns on 68 carries while adding 179 yards receiving with one touchdown on 14 receptions and his stats would have been even better if he didn’t tear up his hamstring in week 14. The Broncos brought in a number of running backs this season so expect Hillis to return to his fullback position but he should still steal a carry here and there.
(09’ Proj: 16 carries, 80 carries, 2 touchdowns, 10 receptions, 80 yards, 0 touchdowns)
28 Fantasy Points
81. Kolby Smith-Kansas City Chiefs
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 63
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 87
Smith filled in nicely during his rookie season when Larry Johnson was injured gaining 407 yards and two touchdowns on 112 carries while adding 148 yards receiving on 22 receptions. Last season the Chiefs drafted Jamaal Charles limiting Smith’s touches and he missed the final nine games of the season with a knee injury. Smith will be third on the depth chart but I do like his game if he sees the field.
(09’ Proj: 30 carries, 140 yards, 1 touchdown, 10 receptions, 70 yards, 0 touchdowns)
27 Fantasy Points
82. Kevin Jones-Chicago Bears
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 53
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 33
After posting eight touchdowns in 2007 Jones landed in Chicago last season and fell off the face of the earth, OK he was somewhere in Chicago but it was rarely on the field as he had a whopping 36 touches for 114 yards and 0 touchdowns. He may do a little more this season now that he is completely healthy but I would not count on much more.
(09’ Proj: 40 carries, 140 yards, 1 touchdown, 10 receptions, 60 yards, 0 touchdowns)
26 Fantasy Points
83. Mike Bell-New Orleans Saints
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 50
In 2006, Bell rushed for 677 yards and eight touchdowns on 157 carries and added 158 yards on 20 carries. Since then he has only had 45 yards and one touchdown on 19 carries. With Deuce McAllister and Aaron Stecker out of the picture, Bell will be the backup to Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush and he has some potential value should either be injured.
(09’ Proj: 30 carries, 120 yards, 1 touchdown, 10 receptions, 80 yards, 0 touchdowns)
26 Fantasy Points
84. Jacob Hester-San Diego Chargers
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 69
Hester has skills but he is too small to be a true fullback and too slow to be a true running back but on just 31 touches he did manage to find the end zone twice last season which is more than a lot of guys can say. I do not see a lot of value here but you could do worse.
(09’ Proj: 25 carries, 100 yards, 1 touchdown, 15 receptions, 100 yards, 0 touchdowns)
26 Fantasy Points
85. Kenny Watson-Cincinnati Bengals
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 49
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 73
Take away 2007 when Watson posted 763 yards and seven touchdowns on 178 carries while adding 374 yards on 52 receptions and what has he ever done? Well I will tell you what he has done, 180 carries, 888 yards, 2 touchdowns and 116/534/1 of that came in 2002 when he was still with the Redskins. Throw in the fact that he is 31 years old and you have yourself a very subpar fantasy player with zero upside. I would not be shocked if the Bengals cut him at some point, they cut him last year after week four so it is a distinct possibility.
(09’ Proj: 20 carries, 90 carries, 0 touchdowns, 20 receptions, 160 yards, 0 touchdowns)
25 Fantasy Points
86. DeDe Dorsey-Cincinnati Bengals
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 8
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 67
I like Dorsey’s potential but after three years, he has only received 26 carries along with six receptions. The Bengals do not have a proven number one back with Cedric Benson and Kenny Watson both having various issues. It is not likely that Dorsey will overtake either of them or of newly acquired Brian Leonard for that matter but if he gets a shot, he could have some sleeper potential.
(09’ Proj: 30 carries, 140 yards, 1 touchdown, 5 receptions, 40 yards, 0 touchdowns)
24 Fantasy Points
87. Kory Sheets-San Francisco 49ers
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 6
Rookie
Sheets went undrafted but I love his upside and aside from Frank Gore, the 9ers are not exactly loaded at running back. He is every bit or more talented than Michael Robinson and fellow rookie Glen Coffee who he will compete with for playing time. Sheets receiving skills and blocking ability could get him on the field as a third down back right away. I am putting the big time sleeper alert on this guy.
(09’ Proj: 10 carries, 40 yards, 1 touchdown, 15 receptions, 140 yards, 0 touchdowns)
24 Fantasy Points
88. Andre Brown-New York Giants
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 10
Rookie
Right now Brown is sitting behind Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw, Dwayne Wright, and possibly even Danny Ware and Allen Patrick but do not sleep on this kid, unless he completely bombs at camp could easily end up as third string, which may not sound great but the Giants have no problem with giving multiple backs fantasy potential. I do not expect a whole lot out of Brown this season but he has major upside.
(09’ Proj: 30 carries, 140 yards, 1 touchdown, 3 receptions, 20 yards, 0 touchdowns)
22 Fantasy Points
89. Michael Robinson-San Francisco 49ers
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 6
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 93
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 80
It has been three years now and aside from his two rushing touchdowns his rookie season he has done squat and at this point I just do not see much fantasy value and he may have trouble just holding off rookie Glen Coffee for second fiddle. His only slim value is his receiving ability.
(09’ Proj: 20 receptions, 70 yards, 0 touchdowns, 20 receptions, 150 yards 0 touchdowns)
22 Fantasy Points
90. Adrian Peterson-Chicago Bears
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: 48
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 52
After posting 930 total yards from scrimmage on 202 touches in 2007, the “other A.P.” only gained 145 yards on 26 touches last season. Matt Forte is the clear number one in Chicago and Kevin Jones is the short yardage guy, which again leaves Peterson on the outside looking in. Should Forte be injured then Peterson could have some value, but it will still be minimal.
(09’ Proj: 30 carries, 130 yards, 0 touchdowns, 10 receptions, 80 yards, 0 touchdowns)
21 Fantasy Points
91. Rashad Jennings-Jacksonville Jaguars
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 7
Rookie
Could turn out to be a steal for the Jaguars as he was drafted in the seventh round and was the last running back taken and I will guarantee you he is not the least talented back in the 2009 class. He will battle Chauncey Washington and Greg Jones for the right to end up behind Maurice Jones-Drew this season. My short-term money is on Washington but I like Jennings upside and he is a guy to keep track of.
(09’ Proj: 30 carries, 120 yards, 1 touchdown, 3 receptions, 20 yards, 0 touchdowns)
20 Fantasy Points
92. Vonta Leach-Houston Texans
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 10
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
Leach is a prototypical fullback at 6’0, 253 lbs, but he has soft hands a knack for finding the end zone. On three career touches, he has two touchdowns to go along with three receiving touchdowns on 48 receptions. He will not see the ball much but when he does, he knows what to do with it.
(09’ Proj: 1 carry, 1 yard, 1 touchdown, 16 receptions, 70 yards, 1 touchdown)
19 Fantasy Points
93. Javon Ringer-Tennessee Titans
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 7
Rookie
Ringer was overused at Michigan State and may not have much left in the tank but the fact that he went in the fifth round still makes him a possible steal because he has skills. Chris Johnson and LenDale White are the clear number 1, 1a but White is in a contract year, and if Ringer gets a chance to show anything, maybe the Titans will let White walk instead of paying big bucks. This high risk/reward player is somebody to watch more possibly next season.
(09’ Proj: 30 receptions, 130 yards, 1 touchdown, 0 receptions, 0 yards, 0 touchdowns)
19 Fantasy Points
94. Mike Sellers-Washington Redskins
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
Sellers has a knack for the end zone, especially receiving where he has caught 16 touchdowns on 85 receptions. His upside is limited.
(09’ Proj: 8 carries, 30 yards, 0 touchdowns, 15 receptions, 100 yards, 1 touchdown)
19 Fantasy Points
95. Mike Tolbert-San Diego Chargers
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
I would not Tolbert a worthy fantasy player but for a rookie fullback he had a decent season in 2008. His 13 carries for 37 yards are not impressive but his 171 yards and one touchdown on 13 receptions is not bad. As long as he holds off Jacob Hester and is the primary fullback, he will likely put up similar numbers this season.
(09’ Proj: 15 carries, 40 yards, 0 touchdowns, 15 receptions, 140 yards, 0 touchdowns)
18 Fantasy Points
96. Ryan Moats-Houston Texans
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 10
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
Moats was a sleeper a few years ago but that seems like a decade ago. Take away 2005 when he ran for 278 yards and three touchdowns on 55 carries along with seven yards on four receptions. Since then he has combined for 163 yards rushing and one touchdown on 48 carries along with 14 yards on three receptions. He will battle Chris Brown for the right to back up Steve Slaton, which would have some possible fantasy value. I have no faith in Moats at this point but it is worth watching camp reports.
(09’ Proj: 40 carries, 140 yards, 0 touchdowns, 4 receptions, 30 yards, 0 touchdowns)
17 Fantasy Points
97. Lorenzo Booker-Philadelphia Eagles
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 4
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 56
The Eagles traded a fourth round pick for Booker only to see him rush for 53 yards on 20 carries to go along with 11 yards on six receptions. He has yet to find the end zone and looks to once again have no fantasy value sitting behind Brian Westbrook and rookie LeSean McCoy.
(09’ Proj: 20 carries, 90 yards, 0 touchdowns, 9 receptions, 80 yards, 0 touchdowns)
17 Fantasy Points
98. Kenneth Darby-St. Louis Rams
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 4
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
Thanks to injuries to Steven Jackson and Brian Leonard along with the attitude problem of Antonio Pittman; Darby saw the field but still only had 32 rushes and 19 receptions and did not find the end zone. He will battle Pittman and Samkon Gado for playing time behind Jackson. I do not expect much out of any of them other than Jackson.
(09’ Proj: 20 carries, 90 yards, 0 touchdowns, 10 receptions, 80 yards, 0 touchdowns)
17 Fantasy Points
99. Jason Snelling-Atlanta Falcons
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 4
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: 91
Snelling will not climb any higher than third on the depth chart unless Michael Turner or Jerious Norwood get injured but I still like his potential and if either of the above go down he has some slight fantasy value.
(09’ Proj: 20 carries, 80 yards, 0 touchdowns, 10 receptions, 80 yards, 0 touchdowns)
16 Fantasy Points
100. Jason McKie-Chicago Bears
Auction Value: $0
Bye Week: 5
2008 Pre-Season Ranking: None
2007 Pre-Season Ranking: None
I am not a fan of any fullback in the league but McKie has more value than many running backs in the league. Despite only having 11 carries last season he scored twice and added another receiving touchdown on just 11 receptions. His role will again to put defenders on their butts for Matt Forte so his value is very limited but again he is still better than a number of running backs.
(09’ Proj: 10 carries, 30 yards, 1 touchdown, 10 receptions, 60 yards, 0 touchdowns)
15 Fantasy Points
Unsigned Free Agents that all have the ability to be ranked ahead of the bottom third of the above list if they sign with a team.
J.J. Arrington-A long shot at this point but I hate seeing his talent go to waste.
Reuben Droughns-There is no reason any team would sign this guy.
Warrick Dunn-He is 34 but is smart and a better runner than many backs out there.
DeShaun Foster-Mr. Underachiever at least scored twice last season.
Nick Goings-Not worth owning.
Ahman Green-He is 32 and injury prone, a combo that should signal the end.
Maurice Hicks-Hardly saw the field in Minnesota and for good reason.
Rudi Johnson-Went from stud to dud so quick that my head is still spinning.
Deuce McAllister-Four knee surgeries in three years is just too much to overcome
Travis Minor-Could have some fantasy value in the perfect situation but not likely.
Chris Perry-Proved last season that he has little to offer other than a fumble.
Michael Pittman-The old man still knows how to find the end zone.
Aaron Stecker-His potential is limited wherever he lands.
Selvin Young-He proved in Denver he has some talent but is likely just a role player.
Tatum Bell-16 touchdowns in five years is better than a lot of backs.
