Top 2008 Rookies. My opinions on possible team factors that can make or break the RBs this year or in the 2009 season.
Please answer the poll questions and rank the major rookie running backs if you like based on how you feel they will do this year and next year. Please briefly detail your reasoning, like i tried to do!
RB Darren McFadden, OAK -- His talent will win out over the other RBs in Oakland, although Russell's inexperience and a weak offense line are big worries. Should be a major player by the end of 2008, and ready for 75% of the carries by next season.
RB Jonathan Stewart, CAR -- With DeAngelo Hall playing the way he is, Stewart might not be able to pass him this season. He will get some tough yards for the Panthers and some TDS in 2008, but role should increase in the 2009 season.
RB Rashard Mendenhall, PIT -- Willie Parker worries me. Injury and lack of TDs is troublesome. Mendenhall could be a success this year with yards and TDs. The Steelers might prefer the big back to start over Parker if not late this season then in 2009.
RB Matt Forte, CHI -- Forte seems to be in a good position, but Chicago has major line issues and quarterback issues. I know the Bears want to run the ball, but how much will their issues affect Forte? Will Chicago fix problems for 2009?
RB Kevin Smith, DET -- Smith could be a major player this season. Two big time WRs to keep defenses honest and the Lions are committed to running the ball. They also added a big tackle in the draft, but the Lion D must stop teams for Smith in 2008, 2009.
RB Felix Jones, DAL -- Great offensive line. More of an explosive runner, Jones will be serving only as a compliment to Barber this year. he could get more touches in 2009 but i really don’t see major value in 2008 or 2009 unless Barber is injured.
RB Chris Johnson, TEN -- His hot start has people talking. Combine Johnson's start with L. White's bad attitude and poor physical shape, he could pass White early in the 2008 season. Tennessee is a balanced team, should have success in 2008 and in 2009.
RB Ray Rice, BAL -- After his last preseason game, it seems that "Everyone loves Raymond." McGahee's still the starter, but if you draft Willis, Rice is now a MUST handcuff. With McGahee’s injury history Rice could have good seasons in both 2008 and 2009.
Please answer the poll questions and rank the major rookie running backs if you like based on how you feel they will do this year and next year. Please briefly detail your reasoning, like i tried to do!
RB Darren McFadden, OAK -- His talent will win out over the other RBs in Oakland, although Russell's inexperience and a weak offense line are big worries. Should be a major player by the end of 2008, and ready for 75% of the carries by next season.
RB Jonathan Stewart, CAR -- With DeAngelo Hall playing the way he is, Stewart might not be able to pass him this season. He will get some tough yards for the Panthers and some TDS in 2008, but role should increase in the 2009 season.
RB Rashard Mendenhall, PIT -- Willie Parker worries me. Injury and lack of TDs is troublesome. Mendenhall could be a success this year with yards and TDs. The Steelers might prefer the big back to start over Parker if not late this season then in 2009.
RB Matt Forte, CHI -- Forte seems to be in a good position, but Chicago has major line issues and quarterback issues. I know the Bears want to run the ball, but how much will their issues affect Forte? Will Chicago fix problems for 2009?
RB Kevin Smith, DET -- Smith could be a major player this season. Two big time WRs to keep defenses honest and the Lions are committed to running the ball. They also added a big tackle in the draft, but the Lion D must stop teams for Smith in 2008, 2009.
RB Felix Jones, DAL -- Great offensive line. More of an explosive runner, Jones will be serving only as a compliment to Barber this year. he could get more touches in 2009 but i really don’t see major value in 2008 or 2009 unless Barber is injured.
RB Chris Johnson, TEN -- His hot start has people talking. Combine Johnson's start with L. White's bad attitude and poor physical shape, he could pass White early in the 2008 season. Tennessee is a balanced team, should have success in 2008 and in 2009.
RB Ray Rice, BAL -- After his last preseason game, it seems that "Everyone loves Raymond." McGahee's still the starter, but if you draft Willis, Rice is now a MUST handcuff. With McGahee’s injury history Rice could have good seasons in both 2008 and 2009.
Last edited by a moderator:
Pre-season hype is exactly that. IF Stewart can get/stay healthy, he is the guy. You don't draft someone that high to ride the pine.
