As many of you probably already know, running backs can get you points on the ground or through the air. That makes it all the more important that you choose a running back that can do more than just run the ball.
Top Fantasy Running Backs
1. Adrian Peterson- Vikings
Adrian Peterson is probably the best running back in the NFL. In 2008 he rushed for over 100 yards ten times and rushed for more than 70 yards all but once. He also plays in a division that is relatively weak in rush defense excluding the Bears. His only minor downfall is that he rarely catches the ball out of the backfield.
2. Chris Johnson- Titans
Many people last year got a steal in Chris Johnson last season. Very few expected Johnson to have the year he did in 2008. You can definitely expect him to be good again this year. A running back in the Jeff Fisher system is always set up to have a good season fantasy wise. Chris Johnson plays in a offense that runs the ball like crazy and is heavily involved in passing the ball in the flats to the running back. We all know how dangerous Chris Johnson is in the open field with his blazing speed. Do yourself a favor and get this guy as your first pick if Peterson is off the board, which he probably will be.
3. Brian Westbrook- Eagles
Brian Westbrook has become a fantasy staple for many over the years. He is an all-purpose yard machine and has a great quarterback getting him the ball. You have to believe that by now Westbrook is McNabb's first choice when passing the ball. Some of the first time fantasy user may confused when they see that Westbrook's rushing stats but remember, receiving yards and touchdowns count too. He is a very viable first-round pick and you probably won't regret it later on.
Solid Picks
Michael Turner- Falcons
What a breakout of a season 2008 was for Michael Turner. Turner finally got out of the shadow of Ladanian Tomlinson and he capitalized with some great numbers. He may not have as good of a year as last season, but he'll still be a great second option for your fantasy team. He's an illusive runner who will get plenty of opportunities to rush against defensive packages that are guarding against the stellar passing game of the Falcons instead of the rushing attack. He does seem to be streaky at times so beware of that. Still a solid pick.
Matt Forte- Bears
The ground-and-pound offense that the Bears have will supply plenty of opportunities for Forte to get his fantasy points. In the cold months of November and December, the Bears will probably rely even more on the ground attack. He's also respectable at catching the ball out of the backfield. He had 477 yards receiving last season. The only risk here is if his rookie seaosn was a fluke. Most likely it wasn't.
Turn Around and Walk the Other Way!
Steven Jackson- Rams
As great as he was for me on my fantasy team in 2007, there is still no way I'm taking him this season. He was the only bright spot last season for the Rams, but this season will probably bit even more gloomy. We're talking about an offense that will be one of the worst in the league, especially at passing the ball. That makes rushing the ball that much more of a challenge. Jackson also had a fumbling problem in 2008 as he fumbled five times. It may be tempting, but just stay away.
Thomas Jones- Jets
Unexpectedly, Thomas Jones had a great year in 2008. A lot of that can be attributed to defenses be scared to death of what Brett Favre might do to them. Now defenses only have to worry about either a rookie quarterback in Mark Sanchez, or an average quarterback in Kellen Clemens. The production of Jones also dropped dramatically towards the end of the season, much like the rest of the Jets. Stay away from him unless there's nothing else left on the board.
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