Rotoworld Dynasty Rankings RBs (1 Viewer)

[Max Power]

RUNNING BACKS

TIER ONE

1. Adrian Peterson MIN 23 - Simply the most talented player on the field

2. Steven Jackson STL 25 - Rams and new offensive coordinator Al Saunders are committed to building the offense around the multi-dimensional S-Jax

3. LaDanian Tomlinson SD 29 - Have we seen the last of the truly dominant LT2? He may bounce back with a vengeance after all the flack he took for the Pats game, but it's tough to rank him higher at the crucial RB age of 29

4. Brian Westbrook PHI 29 - Money in PPR leagues and still underrated, but injuries are a constant concern; is this off-season the time to flip him for a younger talent before it's too late?

5. Frank Gore SF 25 - Talented, well-rounded, great job security, and in line to haul in a ton of receptions in Martz' offense which saw Marshall Faulk take his game to the next level

6. Joseph Addai IND 25 - Safe call in the Colts offense, but is 300 touches per year his limit?

7. Maurice Jones-Drew JAX 23 - One of the best players in the NFL and averages a TD per game even in limited touches; his time for Westbrook-like domination is coming like a freight train

8. Marshawn Lynch BUF 22 - Should see his role expand on the heels of an impressive rookie season

TIER TWO

9. Marion Barber III DAL 25 - He and Ronnie Brown have consistently given me the most trouble since I've started these rankings, and this offseason is no different. Barber's distinct strengths (runs hard, scores often, well-rounded) and weaknesses (runs too hard, likely to wear down with major increase in carries, could lead to short career, Cowboys likely to add a talented counterpart) make for a complex value judgment for dynasty leaguers

10. Clinton Portis WAS 27 - Something is askew here: his owners are constantly trying to deal him, but they also consider him an elite back. The problem is he's not quite the ideal RB1 that dynasty leaguers want to rely on, but it's increasingly difficult to trade him for an upgrade

11. Reggie Bush NO 23 - We have to accept the fact that he's not the dynamic homerun hitter he was hyped to be, but he's still gold in PPR leagues and was used at the goal-line while Deuce was injured

12. Larry Johnson KC 28 - With the dwindling yards per carry, the 400+ carry season of '06, the foot injury, the perdition of what was once possibly the best O-Line in NFL history, and now a punchless Croyle-led offense, L.J. simply has too much going against him to return to '05-'06 form. Those days are gone

13. Ronnie Brown MIA 26 - Here's the crux of the problem: even with the advances of modern medical technology, no RB in history has returned as the same back immediately after ACL surgery. If Brown won't be truly himself again until '09, what's his dynasty value? Can he be counted on as a fantasy starter at all in '08? The answer to that last question is going to count for a lot in determining his value

14. Willis McGahee BAL 26 - High marks in job security and consistent production, but the Ravens offense inspires so little faith

15. Ryan Grant GB 25 - The Packers love his game, so there's no worry about job security any time soon; how will Favre's exit affect the value of the running game?

16. Laurence Maroney NE 23 - It will be interesting to see if the Pats trust Maroney in short yardage after his success there late in the season; Maroney is a talented back in a great offense, but there are still legit concerns about his usage patterns in that offense

TIER THREE

17. Willie Parker PIT 27 - When you lose goal-line carries and third-down work, you lose a hefty portion of your fantasy value; I like FWP, but I've always sensed that the Steelers don't trust him to be a true workhorse

18. DeAngelo Williams CAR 25 - Not likely to get regular goal-line work regardless, but if Carolina stays with Toefield as his timeshare partner, Williams gets another spike in value. If they draft a talented back, the questions will linger

19. Jamal Lewis CLE 29 - Too many dynasty owners are writing off a talented back playing very well with fresh legs; there aren't too many RBs around the league with this much job security and a guaranteed prominent role in a highly productive offense. Frankly, I probably have him too low as opposed to too high

20. Michael Turner ATL 26 - Will be the Thunder to Norwood's Lightning in ATL, meaning Turner will get the early down and short-yardage work but will likely lose some value in the passing game. Will he find the end zone enough to make up for Norwood's production drain?

21. Brandon Jacobs NYG 26 - He will always face questions about staying healthy and being a bit of a novelty act, and now he has to contend with an Ahmad Bradshaw problem

TIER FOUR

22. Earnest Graham TB 28 - Most of his value is going to be tied up in the 2008 season with the Bucs showing a definite interest in finding another reliable RB by hook or by crook; he can help you win now, but there's just not enough long-range value here

23. Julius Jones SEA 27 - New starting RB for the Seahawks could regain quite a bit of value; now let's see what they do in the draft

24. LenDale White TEN 23 - In addition to the dedication, weight, and maturity issues, BakeSale has picked up a couple more: (1) He's useless if the Titans are playing from behind and (2) The Titans are going to be continually on the lookout for a quality RB to pair with him and siphon production

25. Pierre Thomas NO 23 - Like Willie Parker a couple of years ago, Thomas could capitalize on a huge Week 17 game to carve out a prominent role in his team's offense especially if Deuce's microfracture right knee and ACL left knee hold him back

26. Justin Fargas OAK 28 - What are the chances he stays healthy and holds off all of the competition for his job throughout the whole season? Sell (relatively) high if it's not too late

27. Ahmad Bradshaw NYG 22 - I was eyeballing his game for weaknesses throughout the playoffs, but I didn't find any glaring ones; he may not be able to carry a full load, but the question is moot with Jacobs in front of him

TIER FIVE

28. Michael Bush OAK 24 - Now that he's healthy, can he stay healthy? If so, he has a better chance to eat into Fargas' work than Rhodes or Jordan do; is he more of a time-share back or a guy who can carry the load in the future?

29. Thomas Jones NYJ 30 - With the Jets' revamped O-Line, he could move up a bit as long as the Jets don't draft a RB in the first couple of rounds; unfortunately, many suspect the Jets are the likely McFadden landing spot

30. Edgerrin James ARI 30 - His goal-line and passing game production have already been taken away, and the Cardinals are now looking for his successor in the draft; still a possibility of being cut this spring/summer

31. Travis Henry DEN 29 - The definition of ethereal value; if stability is London, then Henry is Tokyo

32. Rudi Johnson CIN 28 - He looks like he's running on dead legs, but there's some chance his poor production was more the result of the hamstring injury than being washed up. Either way, he's reached the point where he could lose his job at a moment's notice . . . if he hasn't already

33. Selvin Young DEN 24.9 - Talented, explosive, and well-liked by his head coach, but he's never going to dominate the carries

TIER SIX

34. Jerious Norwood ATL 25 - As expected, Norwood won't be given an opportunity to shoulder the load in ATL; how valuable can he be with limited touches?

35. Chester Taylor MIN 29 - As valuable of a pure backup as any RB in the league, Taylor is still most valuable to Adrian Peterson owners; won't be a free agent until after the '09 season when he'll be almost 31-years-old

36. Kevin Jones UFA 26 - Won't be back by week one, will be less than 100% when he does play, will be injured quickly as soon as he does come back, and will likely be splitting carries wherever he winds up. What's the fantasy football equivalent of a "face for radio" or a "face only a mother could love"? A running back only an intractably twitterpated owner could love

37. Ricky Williams MIA 31 - Could be a good story here if Brown is slow to return to last year's form; after a couple of seasons away from football, Ricky should have fresh legs and is one of the few backups who can carry a full load if needed

38. Kenny Irons CIN 25 - There's definitely a window of opportunity in Cincinnati's backfield right now, but it's going to tough for Irons to exploit it at less than 100% in the year following ACL surgery

39. Tatum Bell DET 27 - Currently the starting RB in Detroit, but that's likely to change before long

40. Cedric Benson CHI 25 - Injury prone, headcase RB lacking in explosiveness and receiving ability just lost a step he couldn't afford to lose and now likely to be splitting carries at best. Where do I sign up?

41. Fred Taylor JAX 32 - Has as much value as a 32-year-old, part-timer without goal-line and passing game opportunities can possibly have

42. Ahman Green HOU 31 - Mistakenly regarded as washed up when he should more accurately be portrayed as a RB who can still play and play well but can't stay healthy under a full workload at this stage of his career

43. Chris Brown HOU 27 - Picked a good situation with Texans' zone blocking scheme and no dominant RB in front of him, but Brown just can't be relied on as more than a committee back

TIER SEVEN

44. Ladell Betts WAS 29 - Now more of an insurance for Portis as opposed to a backfield complement; startable in the event of a Portis injury but valueless in the meantime

45. Derrick Ward NYG 28 - Looks like his injury history scared off potential suitors, so he re-signed with the Giants dampening his value in the process

46. Chris Henry TEN 23 - Titans are continually on the lookout for a backfield upgrade, but Henry is the choice for third down work and White right now

47. Lamont Jordan OAK 29.8 - Just release him already! He turns 30 this season and the chronic back problems leave him as nothing more than a backup option, but he has a chance to be startable for a few games at a time if he gets the opportunity

48. Cadillac Williams TB 26 - We've heard everything from "career's over" to "suiting up by week one." The most likely scenario is that he'll start the season on the PUP list and will be a shadow of his former self once he does return . . . and truth be told his former self wasn't all that hot to begin with

49. Leon Washington NYJ 26 - A homerun hitter, but just not physical enough to ever be more than a part-timer; his only hope for value is to catch enough passes to be useful in PPR leagues

TIER EIGHT

50. Deuce McAllister NO 29 - Wait, ACL surgery on his left knee and microfracture surgery on his formerly reconstructed right knee? Now that's a horse of a different color for a 30-year-old RB. Why weren't we informed of this microfracture surgery? I can't envision a scenario where Deuce is not washed up at this point

51. Shaun Alexander SEA 31 - Just a matter of time before he's cut by Seattle; could end up in the mix for his hometown Bengals. His days as a workhorse are long gone, and he's going to struggle to ever maintain fantasy relevance again

52. Sammy Morris NE 31 - Was a good fit in New England's offense, but Maroney stepped up when Morris was out with his sternum/clavicle injury; will he keep the short-yardage/goal-line work? Always a chance for an increased role with the whims of Belichick

53. Chris Perry CIN 26 - As brittle as brittle can be, and likely lost more than a step by now, but there's a window of opportunity in Cincy's backfield

54. Kenny Watson CIN 30 - Too pedestrian to grab hold of the starting RB job and run with it, but a repeat of his effective '07 season is possible if no other RB steps up for the Bengals

55. Brandon Jackson GB 22 - Jackson owners who drafted him with a high rookie pick want to believe he could eventually win the job from Grant, but it's just not going to happen. Jackson is buried behind Grant, and he'll be lucky to get regular 3rd down duty

56. Lorenzo Booker MIA 24 - Only hope for value is as a flex player in PPR leagues. Can he catch enough passes to make himself relevant?

57. Musa Smith UFA 26 - Not without talent, but too unreliable due to injury history; would have to land in the ideal situation to merit a look beyond a stash option

58. Najeh Davenport PIT 29 - Likely to keep goal-line/short yardage duties as Parker's complement, but Moore could take over on third downs; has startable value if Parker goes down with an injury again

59. Mewelde Moore PIT 26 - A weapon in the passing game and likely to take over punt-return duties; has a track record of impressive performance in small doses but gets nicked up too easily

60. Dominic Rhodes OAK 29 - Strictly a backup to Fargas and could find himself behind Bush by the time the season starts

61. Kenton Keith IND 28 - Would have some nice value as a sidekick to Addai if the Colts weren't looking to upgrade at RB in this year's draft

62. Darren Sproles SD 25 - Explosive. Could find fantasy value as a receiving weapon out of the backfield if the Chargers made it a point to get the ball to him, but his slight build and the presence of LT2 will ultimately keep him from handling the ball enough to make a sizable fantasy impact

63. Kolby Smith KC 23 - Was decent in a five-game trial at the end of the season, but he's limited to backup duty going forward

64. Adrian Peterson CHI 29 - Right now he's the most effective RB in Chicago, but will likely go back to his former role when new talent is added in the draft

65. DeShaun Foster SF 28 - Signed a meager contract to head West as Frank Gore's backup; don't look for a heavy role in the offense unless Gore gets injured

TIER NINE

66. Andre Hall DEN 26 - Any RB in DEN could get a shot, but he's definitely third on the depth chart even before April's draft; didn't ingratiate himself to his coach by getting arrested last month

67. Antonio Pittman STL 22 - More of a pure backup than Brian Leonard at this point

68. Tony Hunt PHI 22 - Could become the short-yardage back in Philly, but not likely to ever be more than one half of a time share backfield

69. J.J. Arrington ARI 25 - Appears the Cardinals don't see him as anything more than a third down back

70. Fred Jackson BUF 27 - Coaching staff is high on him, but he's more of a change of pace/backup as opposed to a guy with an opportunity

71. DeShawn Wynn GB 24 - Green Bay sees him as more of a pure backup than Jackson, but Wynn's injuries have put him solidly on the bench behind Ryan Grant

72. Chris Taylor HOU 24.8 - Long shot, but the coaching staff seems high on him

73. Vernand Morency GB 28 - Ceiling is third down back

74. T.J. Duckett SEA 27 - Same old Duckett, should take over the short-yardage in Seattle

75. LaBrandon Toefield CAR 28 - Could be D-Willy's short-yardage legs in Carolina if they don't grab a high round RB in the draft

76. Jesse Chatman NYJ 29 - Thomas Jones insurance

77. Warrick Dunn TB 33 - Ill-suited to third down work at this point in his career, but that's where he's going to play

 

[gianmarco]

I actually like this list A LOT. But, I am shocked how high Pierre Thomas is.

 

[Max Power]

I'll go out on a limb and say Cedric Benson is too low... He has talent when he wants to play, hopefully he knows this is his last chance to show it and steps up this year. Unless Chicago Drafts a RB in rd 1 or 2, I don't see anyone who will be taking the carries away.

 

[mcintyre1]

I actually like this list A LOT. But, I am shocked how high Pierre Thomas is.

I think he is a little high as well, but I do think he has a good shot at being productive with the Saints. They would be foolish not to give him a chance after what he showed last year.

 

[Donnybrook]

I'll go out on a limb and say Cedric Benson is too low... He has talent when he wants to play, hopefully he knows this is his last chance to show it and steps up this year. Unless Chicago Drafts a RB in rd 1 or 2, I don't see anyone who will be taking the carries away.

Bears | Forte to work out for teamMon, 17 Mar 2008 15:22:56 -0700J.J. Pesavento, of Next Level Scouting, reports University of Tulane RB Matt Forte will work out for the Chicago Bears next week.

Hypothetically, who would win this training camp battle? I do not know much about Forte.

 

[Demons]

http://dynastyrankings.blogspot.com/

Seems like the same list?

 

[Craig_MiamiFL]

Pretty solid list. Especially like the Thomas ranking (I have him ranked even higher).

Only way he doesn't have a big role for the Saints in 2008 is if Deuce wants to play for peanuts.

 

[Riffraff]

http://dynastyrankings.blogspot.com/

Seems like the same list?

Yup, by the same guy (Chris Wesseling).

 

[Jedimaster21]

I'll go out on a limb and say Cedric Benson is too low... He has talent when he wants to play, hopefully he knows this is his last chance to show it and steps up this year. Unless Chicago Drafts a RB in rd 1 or 2, I don't see anyone who will be taking the carries away.

Bears | Forte to work out for teamMon, 17 Mar 2008 15:22:56 -0700J.J. Pesavento, of Next Level Scouting, reports University of Tulane RB Matt Forte will work out for the Chicago Bears next week.

Hypothetically, who would win this training camp battle? I do not know much about Forte.

Until this news, I was thinking about attempting to tryout and steal the job from Benson.On a side note, I am a 29 year old that has never played organized football...and is pretty out of shape.I think if Forte is drafted by Chicago, or any rookie for that matter, they have a great shot at obtaining the job.

 

[Faust]

 

[Hawkeyeskin]

Pretty solid list. Especially like the Thomas ranking (I have him ranked even higher).Only way he doesn't have a big role for the Saints in 2008 is if Deuce wants to play for peanuts.

Great. Now Pasquino will never trade him. BTW, I couldn't agree more with Craig! Thomas is gonna be a good one.

 

[Carter_Can_Fly]

I want to say thanks for the post and actually like it.

One thing I did not like was.........

-Unless they know that the Jets are drafting a RB early on in the draft Leon Washignton is not ranked low enough. How can he be ranked 49th when at the age of 25 he finished as the RB 32 in his rookie year then in his sophmore year he finished as RB 25. The Jets have revamped their O-line and he may actually get more touches then he did this previous year where he finished as RB 25.

They have Norwood age 25 ranked at 34 who has never finished higher then RB 46 and the Falcons went out and acquired a 26 year old stud RB in the making in Turner. I think Washington playing behind 30 year old T. Jones is better in dynasty than Norwood playing behind Turner.

 

[Donnybrook]

I'll go out on a limb and say Cedric Benson is too low... He has talent when he wants to play, hopefully he knows this is his last chance to show it and steps up this year. Unless Chicago Drafts a RB in rd 1 or 2, I don't see anyone who will be taking the carries away.

Bears | Forte to work out for teamMon, 17 Mar 2008 15:22:56 -0700J.J. Pesavento, of Next Level Scouting, reports University of Tulane RB Matt Forte will work out for the Chicago Bears next week.

Hypothetically, who would win this training camp battle? I do not know much about Forte.

Until this news, I was thinking about attempting to tryout and steal the job from Benson.On a side note, I am a 29 year old that has never played organized football...and is pretty out of shape.I think if Forte is drafted by Chicago, or any rookie for that matter, they have a great shot at obtaining the job.

 

[Demons]

http://dynastyrankings.blogspot.com/

Seems like the same list?

Yup, by the same guy (Chris Wesseling).

He seems to get "IT" better than the staff Dynasty rankings here. Plus he updates every week. Plus he explains his reasoning behind the ranking. Before I make a trade I check his rankings, to make certain I'm not missing something. Scary how close his logic follows my own on value, plus he refers to the age of the player in the same manner that I do (age at the start of the season).He is right-on about Portis.

 

[weasel3515]

A few observations:

1. I'm glad I own ADP, but injury is a serious concern as is being in a virtual RBBC.

2. Gore in the top tier-with Martz running the offense look for him to go south even more than last year. Evidence? Look at any Detroit RB last year. Having no QB doesn't help either.

3. Maroney-the prominence of the passing game for the Pats will always lower his value.

4. Jamal Lewis-great for another year, but for dynasty purposes, this might be it.

5. Graham-See Jamal Lewis above.

6. Thomas Jones-commitment to OL will help as long as a rookie isn't drafted. I think they give him one more year to show what he can do.

 

[Fear & Loathing]

I want to say thanks for the post and actually like it.One thing I did not like was.........-Unless they know that the Jets are drafting a RB early on in the draft Leon Washignton is not ranked low enough. How can he be ranked 49th when at the age of 25 he finished as the RB 32 in his rookie year then in his sophmore year he finished as RB 25. The Jets have revamped their O-line and he may actually get more touches then he did this previous year where he finished as RB 25.They have Norwood age 25 ranked at 34 who has never finished higher then RB 46 and the Falcons went out and acquired a 26 year old stud RB in the making in Turner. I think Washington playing behind 30 year old T. Jones is better in dynasty than Norwood playing behind Turner.

Hi Carter_Can_Fly,I'd say that's a fair quibble. I would say that every RB above Leon Washington is either a starter, has a chance to start, or would be startable as a fantasy RB if given the opportunity due to injury. Leon Washington, on the other hand, isn't ever going to be given the reigns in the backfield. As a guy who consistently manages only about 35-50 yards per week, his only value is as a flex play in deep leagues. I guess you could say the same for Norwood, though, as well. I was always one of Norwood's bigger detractors for dynasty value because he was just never going to be a lead back in the NFL, but I do think he has a better chance to get you 75-90 yards in a given week than Washington does. But I think you're right that they are probably closer in value than where I have them.

 

[Fear & Loathing]

http://dynastyrankings.blogspot.com/

Seems like the same list?

Yup, by the same guy (Chris Wesseling).

He seems to get "IT" better than the staff Dynasty rankings here. Plus he updates every week. Plus he explains his reasoning behind the ranking. Before I make a trade I check his rankings, to make certain I'm not missing something. Scary how close his logic follows my own on value, plus he refers to the age of the player in the same manner that I do (age at the start of the season).He is right-on about Portis.

Thanks Demons. Good to hear.

 

[Fear & Loathing]

Pretty solid list. Especially like the Thomas ranking (I have him ranked even higher).Only way he doesn't have a big role for the Saints in 2008 is if Deuce wants to play for peanuts.

Thanks Craig,I'm still having trouble figuring out how Deuce is going to play RB in the NFL with both knees reconstructed and one of them recently having undergone microfracture surgery. I just don't see it. I think Pierre Thomas' upside in that offense is worth quite a bit if he can get a sliver of opportunity, and I obviously believe that opportunity is forthcoming.

 

[big country]

Michael Bush jumps out to me. Why so low?

 

[cstu]

25. Pierre Thomas NO 23 - Like Willie Parker a couple of years ago, Thomas could capitalize on a huge Week 17 game to carve out a prominent role in his team's offense especially if Deuce's microfracture right knee and ACL left knee hold him back26. Justin Fargas OAK 28 - What are the chances he stays healthy and holds off all of the competition for his job throughout the whole season? Sell (relatively) high if it's not too late27. Ahmad Bradshaw NYG 22 - I was eyeballing his game for weaknesses throughout the playoffs, but I didn't find any glaring ones; he may not be able to carry a full load, but the question is moot with Jacobs in front of him

Suuuurrrrre.

 

[EBF]

Michael Bush jumps out to me. Why so low?

28 is low for a backup who has never carried the football in an NFL game? Bush has upside, but I don't know how much higher you could really expect to see him at this point.EDIT: Nevermind. I think we're using opposite definitions of the word "low" here.

 

[cstu]

Michael Bush jumps out to me. Why so low?

The guy has Fargus at 26.

 

[big country]

Michael Bush jumps out to me. Why so low?

28 is low for a backup who has never carried the football in an NFL game? Bush has upside, but I don't know how much higher you could really expect to see him at this point.EDIT: Nevermind. I think we're using opposite definitions of the word "low" here.

Haha yeah my low=lower #'s

 

[loose circuits]

only problem I have with this list is that Ryan Grant is too low...

 

[Fear & Loathing]

25. Pierre Thomas NO 23 - Like Willie Parker a couple of years ago, Thomas could capitalize on a huge Week 17 game to carve out a prominent role in his team's offense especially if Deuce's microfracture right knee and ACL left knee hold him back26. Justin Fargas OAK 28 - What are the chances he stays healthy and holds off all of the competition for his job throughout the whole season? Sell (relatively) high if it's not too late27. Ahmad Bradshaw NYG 22 - I was eyeballing his game for weaknesses throughout the playoffs, but I didn't find any glaring ones; he may not be able to carry a full load, but the question is moot with Jacobs in front of him

Suuuurrrrre.

Thanks for the thoughtful response. This is the kind of reward that makes it all worth while.

Michael Bush jumps out to me. Why so low?

The guy has Fargus at 26.

Thanks again for the thought that went into your response. It's nice to know you can put hours and hours of preparation and analysis into a piece of work and have it reduced to straight jacket material by a faceless message board hack. Most of us around here are interested in meaningful discussion and intelligent debate. That's what the ranking have always been there for. If all you can manage is a drive-by insult that can't even be intelligently discussed one way or another, then take a hike, Spike. Oh, and cstu, please point me toward the work that you have created for others to discuss intelligently.

 

[loose circuits]

25. Pierre Thomas NO 23 - Like Willie Parker a couple of years ago, Thomas could capitalize on a huge Week 17 game to carve out a prominent role in his team's offense especially if Deuce's microfracture right knee and ACL left knee hold him back26. Justin Fargas OAK 28 - What are the chances he stays healthy and holds off all of the competition for his job throughout the whole season? Sell (relatively) high if it's not too late27. Ahmad Bradshaw NYG 22 - I was eyeballing his game for weaknesses throughout the playoffs, but I didn't find any glaring ones; he may not be able to carry a full load, but the question is moot with Jacobs in front of him

Suuuurrrrre.

Thanks for the thoughtful response. This is the kind of reward that makes it all worth while.

Michael Bush jumps out to me. Why so low?

The guy has Fargus at 26.

Thanks again for the thought that went into your response. It's nice to know you can put hours and hours of preparation and analysis into a piece of work and have it reduced to straight jacket material by a faceless message board hack. Most of us around here are interested in meaningful discussion and intelligent debate. That's what the ranking have always been there for. If all you can manage is a drive-by insult that can't even be intelligently discussed one way or another, then take a hike, Spike. Oh, and cstu, please point me toward the work that you have created for others to discuss intelligently.

you encourage this behavior by validating it with a response...just sayingany good football mind appreciates the effort put into this type of analysis

 

[cstu]

The guy has Fargus at 26.

Thanks again for the thought that went into your response. It's nice to know you can put hours and hours of preparation and analysis into a piece of work and have it reduced to straight jacket material by a faceless message board hack. Most of us around here are interested in meaningful discussion and intelligent debate. That's what the ranking have always been there for. If all you can manage is a drive-by insult that can't even be intelligently discussed one way or another, then take a hike, Spike. Oh, and cstu, please point me toward the work that you have created for others to discuss intelligently.

With you way you reacted you'd think you're related to Huggy Bear. Sorry that I offended you. I thought it was pretty much understood around here that 26 is too high for Fargas in dynasty. There are many RB's available there who would better for your team. If you really want reasons here you go:1) Age - he turned 28 in January2) Injuries - have been a major problem for him and it's unlikely he'll ever be a guy a team will feel comfortable depending on to carry the load. 3) Production - one season where a guy barely hits 1000 yards in his 5th year doesn't make him a guaranteed starter. His YPC was good, but the OL is better than people think - look at Rhodes 2 100-yard games at the end of the season.4) Competition - the team drafted a Michael Bush last year who would have been an early pick if he hadn't been injured. Even if he isn't the answer the team is likely to look for someone else for him to compete with. 5) Contract - he basically got a 1 year deal for $6.6M with the option to keep him for two more years. If he gets injured or just doesn't perform well, the cap hit next year will only be $1.5M more than keeping him ($4M - $2.5M). That doesn't sound like a contract for RB that the team plans to keep for a long time.This isn't redraft rankings, it's dynasty. It's certainly possible that Fargas puts together a decent season and if you're lucky maybe he'll even stay healthy to help you in the playoffs. But can anyone honestly say they think he'll be the starting RB in 2009? The way I see it, you have to look at Fargas a one-year back - in which case why not go for someone like Edge, Thomas Jones or even Henry (rookies not considered for now since McFadden could still end up in Oak)? I'd much rather take a chance on a younger back like Michael Bush or some other back with more long-term upside (KJ, Norwood, Irons).

 

[DoubleG]

The guy has Fargus at 26.

Thanks again for the thought that went into your response. It's nice to know you can put hours and hours of preparation and analysis into a piece of work and have it reduced to straight jacket material by a faceless message board hack. Most of us around here are interested in meaningful discussion and intelligent debate. That's what the ranking have always been there for. If all you can manage is a drive-by insult that can't even be intelligently discussed one way or another, then take a hike, Spike. Oh, and cstu, please point me toward the work that you have created for others to discuss intelligently.

With you way you reacted you'd think you're related to Huggy Bear. Sorry that I offended you. I thought it was pretty much understood around here that 26 is too high for Fargas in dynasty. There are many RB's available there who would better for your team. If you really want reasons here you go:1) Age - he turned 28 in January2) Injuries - have been a major problem for him and it's unlikely he'll ever be a guy a team will feel comfortable depending on to carry the load. 3) Production - one season where a guy barely hits 1000 yards in his 5th year doesn't make him a guaranteed starter. His YPC was good, but the OL is better than people think - look at Rhodes 2 100-yard games at the end of the season.4) Competition - the team drafted a Michael Bush last year who would have been an early pick if he hadn't been injured. Even if he isn't the answer the team is likely to look for someone else for him to compete with. 5) Contract - he basically got a 1 year deal for $6.6M with the option to keep him for two more years. If he gets injured or just doesn't perform well, the cap hit next year will only be $1.5M more than keeping him ($4M - $2.5M). That doesn't sound like a contract for RB that the team plans to keep for a long time.This isn't redraft rankings, it's dynasty. It's certainly possible that Fargas puts together a decent season and if you're lucky maybe he'll even stay healthy to help you in the playoffs. But can anyone honestly say they think he'll be the starting RB in 2009? The way I see it, you have to look at Fargas a one-year back - in which case why not go for someone like Edge, Thomas Jones or even Henry (rookies not considered for now since McFadden could still end up in Oak)? I'd much rather take a chance on a younger back like Michael Bush or some other back with more long-term upside (KJ, Norwood, Irons).

Not that Fear and Loathing needs any help, but look where Fargas is in the rankings compared to guys like Lewis, Graham, etc. - just below them. (Or just above guys like Rudi) My point is that virtually every consideration you list for Fargas (age, injury, competition) are concerns for all the players around him in the rankings. Lewis and Graham have less competition and are thus ranked higher - Rudi, has had more of an issue with injury recently and is older - thus ranked lower. Simply put, it is far from looney for Fargas, currently a starter on an NFL team in the mid to late 20's. A better way to respond to the question (rather than " I wouldn't rank him there") would be who would you put ahead of him?

 

[kneeshooter]

2. Gore in the top tier-with Martz running the offense look for him to go south even more than last year. Evidence? Look at any Detroit RB last year. Having no QB doesn't help either.

I don't think comparing Gore to the 2007 Detroit RBs is fair. Gore is uber-talented, and I see him being used more like Faulk in the Martz/Rams era than the mess of RBs in Detroit last year.And the jury is still out on Alex Smith. The kid was a top pick and is still only 23 years old. Obviously the 9ers liked enough of what they saw to give him an extension. They've upgraded the WR around him (say what you want, but it's better than last year) and given him a pass happy OC. I like the SF offense to significantly imprve over last year.

 

[Yitbos69]

The guy has Fargus at 26.

Thanks again for the thought that went into your response. It's nice to know you can put hours and hours of preparation and analysis into a piece of work and have it reduced to straight jacket material by a faceless message board hack. Most of us around here are interested in meaningful discussion and intelligent debate. That's what the ranking have always been there for. If all you can manage is a drive-by insult that can't even be intelligently discussed one way or another, then take a hike, Spike. Oh, and cstu, please point me toward the work that you have created for others to discuss intelligently.

With you way you reacted you'd think you're related to Huggy Bear. Sorry that I offended you. I thought it was pretty much understood around here that 26 is too high for Fargas in dynasty. There are many RB's available there who would better for your team. If you really want reasons here you go:1) Age - he turned 28 in January2) Injuries - have been a major problem for him and it's unlikely he'll ever be a guy a team will feel comfortable depending on to carry the load. 3) Production - one season where a guy barely hits 1000 yards in his 5th year doesn't make him a guaranteed starter. His YPC was good, but the OL is better than people think - look at Rhodes 2 100-yard games at the end of the season.4) Competition - the team drafted a Michael Bush last year who would have been an early pick if he hadn't been injured. Even if he isn't the answer the team is likely to look for someone else for him to compete with. 5) Contract - he basically got a 1 year deal for $6.6M with the option to keep him for two more years. If he gets injured or just doesn't perform well, the cap hit next year will only be $1.5M more than keeping him ($4M - $2.5M). That doesn't sound like a contract for RB that the team plans to keep for a long time.This isn't redraft rankings, it's dynasty. It's certainly possible that Fargas puts together a decent season and if you're lucky maybe he'll even stay healthy to help you in the playoffs. But can anyone honestly say they think he'll be the starting RB in 2009? The way I see it, you have to look at Fargas a one-year back - in which case why not go for someone like Edge, Thomas Jones or even Henry (rookies not considered for now since McFadden could still end up in Oak)? I'd much rather take a chance on a younger back like Michael Bush or some other back with more long-term upside (KJ, Norwood, Irons).

Not that Fear and Loathing needs any help, but look where Fargas is in the rankings compared to guys like Lewis, Graham, etc. - just below them. (Or just above guys like Rudi) My point is that virtually every consideration you list for Fargas (age, injury, competition) are concerns for all the players around him in the rankings. Lewis and Graham have less competition and are thus ranked higher - Rudi, has had more of an issue with injury recently and is older - thus ranked lower. Simply put, it is far from looney for Fargas, currently a starter on an NFL team in the mid to late 20's. A better way to respond to the question (rather than " I wouldn't rank him there") would be who would you put ahead of him?

I am not high on Fargas at all....that said F&L puts out one of the best Dynasty rankings out there free of charge.....Thanks again F&L keep up the great work

 

[Max Power]

I'll go out on a limb and say Cedric Benson is too low... He has talent when he wants to play, hopefully he knows this is his last chance to show it and steps up this year. Unless Chicago Drafts a RB in rd 1 or 2, I don't see anyone who will be taking the carries away.

Bears | Forte to work out for teamMon, 17 Mar 2008 15:22:56 -0700J.J. Pesavento, of Next Level Scouting, reports University of Tulane RB Matt Forte will work out for the Chicago Bears next week.

Hypothetically, who would win this training camp battle? I do not know much about Forte.

Until this news, I was thinking about attempting to tryout and steal the job from Benson.On a side note, I am a 29 year old that has never played organized football...and is pretty out of shape.I think if Forte is drafted by Chicago, or any rookie for that matter, they have a great shot at obtaining the job.

Everyone is quick to point the finger at Benson for being "un-motivated" as the reason he didn't put up numbers last season. I will partially agree with that. However the Bears O-line might currently be the Worst in the NFL. Kruetz is still a great player. Tait is showing the signs of aging (33). Garza probably isn't a starter on 80% of teams. Then who? The Bears only have 3 proven linemen. It doesn't say much about the backups either when they can't get on the field over a couple vets (R.Brown/F.Miller) who are vastly underperforming. Now Benson is currently not an All-Pro player, but he has decent talent. The Bears Run game will be terrible again next season. I can't see how any D coordinator will respect the pass with this QB/WR combo. To think a 3rd round guy will jump in and beat out Benson for the job is just crazy IMO. Now this isn't a knock on Forte. I don't much about the kid. It is more a "until the O-line gets fixed any back would look terrible" rant.

 

[JohnnyU]

I'll go out on a limb and say Cedric Benson is too low... He has talent when he wants to play, hopefully he knows this is his last chance to show it and steps up this year. Unless Chicago Drafts a RB in rd 1 or 2, I don't see anyone who will be taking the carries away.

Bears | Forte to work out for team

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 15:22:56 -0700

J.J. Pesavento, of Next Level Scouting, reports University of Tulane RB Matt Forte will work out for the Chicago Bears next week.

Hypothetically, who would win this training camp battle? I do not know much about Forte.

Until this news, I was thinking about attempting to tryout and steal the job from Benson.On a side note, I am a 29 year old that has never played organized football...and is pretty out of shape.

I think if Forte is drafted by Chicago, or any rookie for that matter, they have a great shot at obtaining the job.

Everyone is quick to point the finger at Benson for being "un-motivated" as the reason he didn't put up numbers last season. I will partially agree with that. However the Bears O-line might currently be the Worst in the NFL. Kruetz is still a great player. Tait is showing the signs of aging (33). Garza probably isn't a starter on 80% of teams. Then who? The Bears only have 3 proven linemen. It doesn't say much about the backups either when they can't get on the field over a couple vets (R.Brown/F.Miller) who are vastly underperforming. Now Benson is currently not an All-Pro player, but he has decent talent. The Bears Run game will be terrible again next season. I can't see how any D coordinator will respect the pass with this QB/WR combo. To think a 3rd round guy will jump in and beat out Benson for the job is just crazy IMO.

Now this isn't a knock on Forte. I don't much about the kid. It is more a "until the O-line gets fixed any back would look terrible" rant.

The reason a 3rd round guy can jump in and beat out Benson, is because Benson isn't liked by the fans or his teammates. That makes it a lot easier to replace him, current salary notwithstanding.

 

[Sweet Love]

only problem I have with this list is that Ryan Grant is too low...

Interesting because I thought Brandon Jackson was too low at 55. Sure he lost out to Grant, but unless RB is addressed in the draft, BJ is just a poor performance or injury away from being the starter on an up and coming team that may have some issues at QB and run more than last year.

 

[Craig_MiamiFL]

Thanks again for the thought that went into your response. It's nice to know you can put hours and hours of preparation and analysis into a piece of work and have it reduced to straight jacket material by a faceless message board hack. Most of us around here are interested in meaningful discussion and intelligent debate. That's what the ranking have always been there for. If all you can manage is a drive-by insult that can't even be intelligently discussed one way or another, then take a hike, Spike. Oh, and cstu, please point me toward the work that you have created for others to discuss intelligently.

I'd just ignore him. Not worth your time.Don't let one guy looking to get a rise out of you/anyone else overshadow the many of us that appreciate your efforts.

 

[Sidewinder16]

While I certainly appreciate the effort, and think you've put together a solid ranking for most players, a couple comments really jumped out at me.

9. Marion Barber III DAL 25 - He and Ronnie Brown have consistently given me the most trouble since I've started these rankings, and this offseason is no different. Barber's distinct strengths (runs hard, scores often, well-rounded) and weaknesses (runs too hard, likely to wear down with major increase in carries, could lead to short career, Cowboys likely to add a talented counterpart) make for a complex value judgment for dynasty leaguers

36. Kevin Jones UFA 26 - Won't be back by week one, will be less than 100% when he does play, will be injured quickly as soon as he does come back, and will likely be splitting carries wherever he winds up. What's the fantasy football equivalent of a "face for radio" or a "face only a mother could love"? A running back only an intractably twitterpated owner could love

I think speculation on a players future health are fine, as long as you present them as such, and not as if they were fact, which is what you make these sound like, IMO. While Barber's and Jones' health history may lead you to believe these comments are more likely to happen than not, I think any reasonable FFer can see that those situations are far from a given.Other than that, a big for having 3 of my dynasty league RBs in the top tier.

 

[Ron_Mexico]

only problem I have with this list is that Ryan Grant is too low...

Interesting because I thought Brandon Jackson was too low at 55. Sure he lost out to Grant, but unless RB is addressed in the draft, BJ is just a poor performance or injury away from being the starter on an up and coming team that may have some issues at QB and run more than last year.

I like Grant a lot, but 15 seems like a decent ranking for him right now.,There is a lot of legitimate RB talent in the top 15..I have to totally disagree with Loose Circuits that Grant is one poor performance away from losing his job. Are you kidding ? Dude was the #2 leading rusher in the NFL after taking over the starting job in GB. He is fully cemented as the #1 RB in Green Bay, without question.Brandon Jackson looked like a complete bust when given the opportunity.I think he is buried behind DeShawn Wynn on the depth chart going into 2008.55 seems like a fair ranking for him, imo.

 

[EBF]

I don't see a problem with Fargas at 26. He's a starter coming off a productive season. It's not like you'd be passing on franchise RBs if you took him as the 26th back off the board. If you ask me, there are only 18-20 decent dynasty RBs in the league right now. Once you get beyond those guys, there isn't a lot to get excited about.

 

[Max Power]

I'll go out on a limb and say Cedric Benson is too low... He has talent when he wants to play, hopefully he knows this is his last chance to show it and steps up this year. Unless Chicago Drafts a RB in rd 1 or 2, I don't see anyone who will be taking the carries away.

Bears | Forte to work out for team

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 15:22:56 -0700

J.J. Pesavento, of Next Level Scouting, reports University of Tulane RB Matt Forte will work out for the Chicago Bears next week.

Hypothetically, who would win this training camp battle? I do not know much about Forte.

Until this news, I was thinking about attempting to tryout and steal the job from Benson.On a side note, I am a 29 year old that has never played organized football...and is pretty out of shape.

I think if Forte is drafted by Chicago, or any rookie for that matter, they have a great shot at obtaining the job.

Everyone is quick to point the finger at Benson for being "un-motivated" as the reason he didn't put up numbers last season. I will partially agree with that. However the Bears O-line might currently be the Worst in the NFL. Kruetz is still a great player. Tait is showing the signs of aging (33). Garza probably isn't a starter on 80% of teams. Then who? The Bears only have 3 proven linemen. It doesn't say much about the backups either when they can't get on the field over a couple vets (R.Brown/F.Miller) who are vastly underperforming. Now Benson is currently not an All-Pro player, but he has decent talent. The Bears Run game will be terrible again next season. I can't see how any D coordinator will respect the pass with this QB/WR combo. To think a 3rd round guy will jump in and beat out Benson for the job is just crazy IMO.

Now this isn't a knock on Forte. I don't much about the kid. It is more a "until the O-line gets fixed any back would look terrible" rant.

The reason a 3rd round guy can jump in and beat out Benson, is because Benson isn't liked by the fans or his teammates. That makes it a lot easier to replace him, current salary notwithstanding.

I don't think the front office will allow it to begin with. And I also disagree with the notion that this draft has 10 backs or so with more talent/skills than Ced. O-line pays a huge role in RB production...Just look at LJ.

 

[travdogg]

I like this list a lot.

Two things:

1. Gore seems too high, he's got bad knees and has Martz running the offense which hurts RB's. Yes Gore is more talented than anything Detroit had however he isn't anywhere even close to as talented as Faulk was, and Faulk had 10 times the supporting cast. Gore seems like he should be ranked in tier 2 or at the tail end of tier 1. I can't see having a choice between Gore and Lynch and choosing Gore.

2. Addai seems low to me. He's in the NFL's most consistent offense and is a lock for at least 1000 yards and 12 TD's with the potential for much much more. 1300-18 isn't out of the question at all, keep in mind Addai really only played 13 games this season as the colts rested everyone but Manning and Wayne down the stretch. Given how safe he is, I'd rather have him than Gore or Westbrook(age) and probably more than anyone other than Peterson in a dynasty league. Addai isn't likely going to be the RB1 at any point in his career, but he will likely be a top-5 guy long after Westbrook and LT are done.

Those two gripes are minor however, and it is a very solid list.

One more thing, if Carolina doesn't add a major back, how big of a spike are we talking with DeAngelo. Up near McGahee spike?

 

[Ron_Mexico]

2. Eric Clapton- He’s a master of the blues. He’s a master of rock guitar. He has tremendous control of the acoustic guitar (see his recording of “Unplugged” for a great example). He’s been a major component of some of the greatest bands off all-time (Cream, Derek and the Dominos, and Traffic)

-------------------------------------------------------------------

F & L...

Clapton is a great guitartist, but he was never part of the band "Traffic".

This was Winwood, Jim Capaldi, Chris Wood and Dave Mason.

Clapton's claim to fame along with the bands you mentioned are

John Mayall & The Blues Breakers, The Yardbirds and Blind Faith.

Someone to consider for your #5 guitarist, Syd Barrett.

Barrett was a pioneer, he was able to generate sounds from the electric guitar

which had never been heard before. Hendrix, Page and Clapton were following Barrett

around the London underground scene in 1966-67, they have all credited Barrett for being a huge influence on them.

For those who don't know Syd Barrett, he was the founding member,

main songwriter, and lead singer and lead guitarist for a band called Pink Floyd.

His rise and fall was quick, but he produced music which was truly magical.

F & L, check out "Piper at the Gates of Dawn" 1967 and listen to Barrett's guitar.

.

 

[Carter_Can_Fly]

I want to say thanks for the post and actually like it.

One thing I did not like was.........

-Unless they know that the Jets are drafting a RB early on in the draft Leon Washignton is not ranked low enough. How can he be ranked 49th when at the age of 25 he finished as the RB 32 in his rookie year then in his sophmore year he finished as RB 25. The Jets have revamped their O-line and he may actually get more touches then he did this previous year where he finished as RB 25.

They have Norwood age 25 ranked at 34 who has never finished higher then RB 46 and the Falcons went out and acquired a 26 year old stud RB in the making in Turner. I think Washington playing behind 30 year old T. Jones is better in dynasty than Norwood playing behind Turner.

Hi Carter_Can_Fly,I'd say that's a fair quibble. I would say that every RB above Leon Washington is either a starter, has a chance to start, or would be startable as a fantasy RB if given the opportunity due to injury. Leon Washington, on the other hand, isn't ever going to be given the reigns in the backfield. As a guy who consistently manages only about 35-50 yards per week, his only value is as a flex play in deep leagues. I guess you could say the same for Norwood, though, as well. I was always one of Norwood's bigger detractors for dynasty value because he was just never going to be a lead back in the NFL, but I do think he has a better chance to get you 75-90 yards in a given week than Washington does. But I think you're right that they are probably closer in value than where I have them.

First off thanks for responding.I think the bolded part is where we disagree. Leon has proven to be more then adequate when starting in his rookie year and in the limited games that he has rushed the ball at least 15 plus times in the game he has produced very well. He also does not get nearly enough credit for his inside running ability and he is 210 pounds so not just a speedster. And if Thomas Jones is injured and the Jets don't draft a top end RB in this years draft Leon is going to be a steal considering his team was abysmal this year and he played behind Jones and still finished as RB 25.

In dynasty I feel he has more upside then drafting R. Williams, F. Taylor, A. Green, L. Betts, D. Ward, L. Jordan, C. Brown, K. Jones, E. James, J. Norwood as for sures. And others would be at least debatable. I think people underestimate Leon's ability and he is closer to RBBC with Jones then many thing ala F. Taylor and MJD although the Jets running game is not nearly as good as the Jags.

 

[Sweet Love]

only problem I have with this list is that Ryan Grant is too low...

Interesting because I thought Brandon Jackson was too low at 55. Sure he lost out to Grant, but unless RB is addressed in the draft, BJ is just a poor performance or injury away from being the starter on an up and coming team that may have some issues at QB and run more than last year.

I like Grant a lot, but 15 seems like a decent ranking for him right now.,There is a lot of legitimate RB talent in the top 15..I have to totally disagree with Loose Circuits that Grant is one poor performance away from losing his job. Are you kidding ? Dude was the #2 leading rusher in the NFL after taking over the starting job in GB. He is fully cemented as the #1 RB in Green Bay, without question.Brandon Jackson looked like a complete bust when given the opportunity.I think he is buried behind DeShawn Wynn on the depth chart going into 2008.55 seems like a fair ranking for him, imo.

Ron,I was actually the one who mentioned Grant's vulnerability and I agree with you that he did nothing but impress last year. With that said, take a look at RBs that come out of nowhere and what their staying power is. GB had Gado rip it up a few years ago, only to trade him away for Morency. Even when you look at guys like Priest Holmes after his 1200 yard year with Baltimore, they repayed him the next year by drafting Lewis. You are correct too in that Jackson looked bad when he did get his opportunities, but he was a first day pick for the Pack and he will get another shot sooner rather than later. I don't even have a problem with where Grant is listed, I just think the guy who will probably win the back up role (Jackson), should at leats be ahead of the grouping of Watson et al.

 

[Ron_Mexico]

only problem I have with this list is that Ryan Grant is too low...

Interesting because I thought Brandon Jackson was too low at 55. Sure he lost out to Grant, but unless RB is addressed in the draft, BJ is just a poor performance or injury away from being the starter on an up and coming team that may have some issues at QB and run more than last year.

I like Grant a lot, but 15 seems like a decent ranking for him right now.,There is a lot of legitimate RB talent in the top 15..I have to totally disagree with Loose Circuits that Grant is one poor performance away from losing his job. Are you kidding ? Dude was the #2 leading rusher in the NFL after taking over the starting job in GB. He is fully cemented as the #1 RB in Green Bay, without question.Brandon Jackson looked like a complete bust when given the opportunity.I think he is buried behind DeShawn Wynn on the depth chart going into 2008.55 seems like a fair ranking for him, imo.

Ron,I was actually the one who mentioned Grant's vulnerability and I agree with you that he did nothing but impress last year. With that said, take a look at RBs that come out of nowhere and what their staying power is. GB had Gado rip it up a few years ago, only to trade him away for Morency. Even when you look at guys like Priest Holmes after his 1200 yard year with Baltimore, they repayed him the next year by drafting Lewis. You are correct too in that Jackson looked bad when he did get his opportunities, but he was a first day pick for the Pack and he will get another shot sooner rather than later. I don't even have a problem with where Grant is listed, I just think the guy who will probably win the back up role (Jackson), should at leats be ahead of the grouping of Watson et al.

SLove,I think comparing Gado's staying power to that ofRyan Grant's simply cannot be done. I also think Wynn is next in lineif Grant gets injured, not Jackson. We disagree on this point.Wynn showed more vision and burst over BJax, imo.

 

[KellysHeroes]

I'm worried about drafting MBIII in the top 10... Th guy is always going to need another back to take some of the load off.. in a top 10 position in dynasty; I'm not sure that I want a part of RBBC... even if it is the better part; as my top RB.

If reports come out that Brown's knee is good... then I might have to think of putting him ahead.

Not sure if I can Put Barber infront of CP. Both are going to last the same amount... maybe Barber will last a yr or 2 longer; but CP will always get the majority of carriers where ever he is.

 

[mcintyre1]

only problem I have with this list is that Ryan Grant is too low...

Interesting because I thought Brandon Jackson was too low at 55. Sure he lost out to Grant, but unless RB is addressed in the draft, BJ is just a poor performance or injury away from being the starter on an up and coming team that may have some issues at QB and run more than last year.

I like Grant a lot, but 15 seems like a decent ranking for him right now.,There is a lot of legitimate RB talent in the top 15..I have to totally disagree with Loose Circuits that Grant is one poor performance away from losing his job. Are you kidding ? Dude was the #2 leading rusher in the NFL after taking over the starting job in GB. He is fully cemented as the #1 RB in Green Bay, without question.Brandon Jackson looked like a complete bust when given the opportunity.I think he is buried behind DeShawn Wynn on the depth chart going into 2008.55 seems like a fair ranking for him, imo.

Ron,I was actually the one who mentioned Grant's vulnerability and I agree with you that he did nothing but impress last year. With that said, take a look at RBs that come out of nowhere and what their staying power is. GB had Gado rip it up a few years ago, only to trade him away for Morency. Even when you look at guys like Priest Holmes after his 1200 yard year with Baltimore, they repayed him the next year by drafting Lewis. You are correct too in that Jackson looked bad when he did get his opportunities, but he was a first day pick for the Pack and he will get another shot sooner rather than later. I don't even have a problem with where Grant is listed, I just think the guy who will probably win the back up role (Jackson), should at leats be ahead of the grouping of Watson et al.

SLove,I think comparing Gado's staying power to that ofRyan Grant's simply cannot be done. I also think Wynn is next in lineif Grant gets injured, not Jackson. We disagree on this point.Wynn showed more vision and burst over BJax, imo.

I've got to agree with SLove here to some extent, as he makes a valid point. Gado came on like gangbusters at the end of that year, but apparently GB didn't see as much in him as we did. Now, I'm not trying to say that Grant will also drop to nothing, but that it is not something that is unheard of. I also disagree that BJax will be the 3rd guy on the depth chart. He did show promise running behind the gelling O-line against Detroit, and he is a better pass catcher than Wynn. Once he learns to block, he'll be a solid third down back. All that said, what I really wish would happen is that BJax would show something in the preseason and get traded to a team that needs RB help so that he could get another shot. I never really thought that he fit the GB running scheme.

 

[bcr8f]

I actually like this list A LOT. But, I am shocked how high Pierre Thomas is.

I think he is a little high as well, but I do think he has a good shot at being productive with the Saints. They would be foolish not to give him a chance after what he showed last year.

That and Duece's role roll with the team isn't defined. Last week some thought he would be cut.

 

[King of the Wolfies]

I'm worried about drafting MBIII in the top 10... Th guy is always going to need another back to take some of the load off.. in a top 10 position in dynasty; I'm not sure that I want a part of RBBC... even if it is the better part; as my top RB.If reports come out that Brown's knee is good... then I might have to think of putting him ahead.Not sure if I can Put Barber infront of CP. Both are going to last the same amount... maybe Barber will last a yr or 2 longer; but CP will always get the majority of carriers where ever he is.

i'll be perfectly fine with him if he gets 15-18 carries a game

 

[bcr8f]

only problem I have with this list is that Ryan Grant is too low...

Interesting because I thought Brandon Jackson was too low at 55. Sure he lost out to Grant, but unless RB is addressed in the draft, BJ is just a poor performance or injury away from being the starter on an up and coming team that may have some issues at QB and run more than last year.

I like Grant a lot, but 15 seems like a decent ranking for him right now.,There is a lot of legitimate RB talent in the top 15..I have to totally disagree with Loose Circuits that Grant is one poor performance away from losing his job. Are you kidding ? Dude was the #2 leading rusher in the NFL after taking over the starting job in GB. He is fully cemented as the #1 RB in Green Bay, without question.Brandon Jackson looked like a complete bust when given the opportunity.I think he is buried behind DeShawn Wynn on the depth chart going into 2008.55 seems like a fair ranking for him, imo.

Wynn in TC was unmotivated and always seemed to have one injury or another. By default he was the starter. Jackson was a rookie and may develop some. Grant was the man last year and I doubt he loses anything unless hurt. I wouldn't give Wynn much opportunity unless he shows he really wants to play. He barely made the team and didn't seem interested enough to keep any job. I like Noah Herron better myself.Grant seems like the perfect player for that system. It's amazing how well he fit from almost day 1.

 

[LBH]

Pretty solid list. Especially like the Thomas ranking (I have him ranked even higher).Only way he doesn't have a big role for the Saints in 2008 is if Deuce wants to play for peanuts.

Thanks Craig,I'm still having trouble figuring out how Deuce is going to play RB in the NFL with both knees reconstructed and one of them recently having undergone microfracture surgery. I just don't see it. I think Pierre Thomas' upside in that offense is worth quite a bit if he can get a sliver of opportunity, and I obviously believe that opportunity is forthcoming.

I agree. I was a little surprised they let Stecker be the main guy toward the end of the season before PT got his chance to start in week 17. I think Thomas could have a very bright future in NO. Like you said, he just needs a sliver of oppurtunity

 

[dmac37]

Pretty solid list. Especially like the Thomas ranking (I have him ranked even higher).

Only way he doesn't have a big role for the Saints in 2008 is if Deuce wants to play for peanuts.

Thanks Craig,I'm still having trouble figuring out how Deuce is going to play RB in the NFL with both knees reconstructed and one of them recently having undergone microfracture surgery. I just don't see it.

I think Pierre Thomas' upside in that offense is worth quite a bit if he can get a sliver of opportunity, and I obviously believe that opportunity is forthcoming.

I agree. I was a little surprised they let Stecker be the main guy toward the end of the season before PT got his chance to start in week 17. I think Thomas could have a very bright future in NO. Like you said, he just needs a sliver of oppurtunity

I took a flyer on Thomas last year but with Stecker getting more looks than Thomas I dropped him. With Duece in doubt I can see Thomas as a sleeper.