Teams most likely to draft a RB high in the draft in 2009 (1 Viewer)

[gianmarco]

So, where are some of the top RB's going to land? Which teams are going to invest a high pick on a RB in 2009?

1. Seattle -- J. Jones/M. Morris (FA)

2. Arizona -- Hightower/Arrington (FA)

3. Cincy -- Benson

4. Cleveland -- Lewis/Harrison

5. NE -- Maroney/Morris/BJE/Faulk/Jordan (FA)

6. Indy -- Addai/Rhodes (FA)

7. Denver -- Torain/Hillis/Young

8. TB -- Graham/Dunn

9. NYJ -- T. Jones/Washington

I think most every other team has clear-cut starters and/or depth. Even some of the ones above are questionable (Indy, NYJ, Cleveland). Also, there's a good chance that one of Jacobs/Ward ends up with one of these teams in a starting role. Of the ones listed, the only ones I see where a rookie could come in and get the job right away are:

Seattle

Arizona

Cincy

NE

Denver

So where are the top RB's in the 2009 rookie class gonna go? Which ones will have a chance to start from day 1 (if any)?

 

[David Yudkin]

The Pats ended the year with almost 2,300 rushing yards. They have way more pressing needs than a RB and it's unlikely they would want to tie up a lot of money in a position where they ranked 6th in the league for very low dollars. The Pats will probably look to add another retread like Kevin Jones or someone similar, but I doubt they make a big splash given their needs on the defensive side of the ball.

 

[gianmarco]

The Pats ended the year with almost 2,300 rushing yards. They have way more pressing needs than a RB and it's unlikely they would want to tie up a lot of money in a position where they ranked 6th in the league for very low dollars. The Pats will probably look to add another retread like Kevin Jones or someone similar, but I doubt they make a big splash given their needs on the defensive side of the ball.

I agree for the most part. But, I can see them getting a RB in the 2nd or 3rd round that is of decent quality. Part of the reason is that their RB's are VERY old. Sammy Morris will be 32. Faulk will be 33. Jordan will be 31. These guys made up the bulk of the production. There comes a point where they simply won't be as efficient given their ages. Waiting until that time is not what I would expect them to do.You're probably right that they will look to add an older vet for less, but I think it's also possible they use a 2nd or 3rd round pick on one as well. Nevertheless, if they do take one that high, I would think he could come in and start right away if things work out. At the same time, I know you're much more familiar with the team workings of the Patriots so if you really think they'll ignore a RB in the draft completely, I'll trust what you say about it.

 

[David Yudkin]

At the same time, I know you're much more familiar with the team workings of the Patriots so if you really think they'll ignore a RB in the draft completely, I'll trust what you say about it.

The Pats are notorious for going all over the place on draft day and trying to figure out their tendancies can be maddening. I have heard some talk that their likely draft strategy will be secondary help, linebacker help, and another offensive lineman. Next after that was TE and RB. That's what I've heard listed as needs in order . . . but what they will actually do is a crapshoot.As for RB, the mystery known as Maroney is still around, and who knows if he can get his act together (I would vote no) and be a contributor.

 

[Enforcer]

So, where are some of the top RB's going to land? Which teams are going to invest a high pick on a RB in 2009? 1. Seattle -- J. Jones/M. Morris (FA)

At 1.04? I don't see it. If they take a skill position player it will be WR Crabtree. If not a Crabtree, LT Smith or LT Oher.I think Morris was a Holmgren favorite, and that's why Jones was a nonfactor at the end of the season. Jones flashed the "me" attitude and fumbled a few times. He was certainly in Holmgren's doghouse. I'm really up in the air about Morris returning. No clue what will happen there.No idea how Mora feels about Jones and/or Morris. However, my gut says that Duckett was signed specically because Mora was going to be the head coach next year. Duckett will definitely be a factor next year. Actually, he was this year with 8 TDs and handled ALL the short yardage carries.My guess is they head into the season next year with a combo of Jones, Duckett, and Forsett.

 

[massraider]

So, where are some of the top RB's going to land? Which teams are going to invest a high pick on a RB in 2009? 1. Seattle -- J. Jones/M. Morris (FA)

At 1.04? I don't see it. If they take a skill position player it will be WR Crabtree. If not a Crabtree, LT Smith or LT Oher.I think Morris was a Holmgren favorite, and that's why Jones was a nonfactor at the end of the season. Jones flashed the "me" attitude and fumbled a few times. He was certainly in Holmgren's doghouse. I'm really up in the air about Morris returning. No clue what will happen there.No idea how Mora feels about Jones and/or Morris. However, my gut says that Duckett was signed specically because Mora was going to be the head coach next year. Duckett will definitely be a factor next year. Actually, he was this year with 8 TDs and handled ALL the short yardage carries.My guess is they head into the season next year with a combo of Jones, Duckett, and Forsett.

Maybe not at 1.04, but any back they take at the top of the 2nd would be a top 6 rookie draft pick. I could see the Hawks going after a rook back. Jones/Duckett/Forsett makes the RB position a major question mark in SEA.

 

[kevjones22]

Seahawks need a Crabtree, DT, and FS. I hope they don't even draft a RB

 

[Enforcer]

Seahawks need a Crabtree, DT, and FS. I hope they don't even draft a RB

Two Seahawks homers in agreement here.

 

[twr]

generally its teams that look like they dont have a RB need that will draft a rB.... which will complicate things even more!

 

[JHuber77]

Seahawks need a Crabtree, DT, and FS. I hope they don't even draft a RB

Two Seahawks homers in agreement here.

Don't count out Detroit taking Crabtree. You know how they love to draft WR's in the first round. Even with Millen gone, you have to suspect they might be tempted to take Crabtree then trade him.

 

[JPeso]

If Bradford declares, he goes to Detroit at 1.1. I originally thought Cassel to Detroit was likely, but with Brady's knee, I think the Pats will do everything they can to franchise Cassel.

Crabtree to Seattle is a virtual lock. I also think Cleveland will take Wells as the first running back drafted. Whether they move down a few slots remains to be seen, as taking Wells at 1.5 is a bit too early.

Of the teams you mention, gian, I think NYJ is the least likely to draft a back. T. Jones is getting up in age, but Leon has proved to be capable, and T. Jones is not done yet in this league. Because he had relatively low carries early on in his career he could be a horse for two more seasons. Leon is a great compliment.

THIS is the year that Shanny drafts a top running back. Call it a gut feeling, but seeing Moreno, or McCoy if he declares in Denver would be great. This was arguably the first year where the motley crue and lack of running game cost Denver games. Look for that to change.

New England will go after D. Ward, K. Jones, or Benson in free agency.

 

[Tanner9919]

I doubt Cincy drafts a RB, Benson got better as the season wore on, he's there to stay..he's a legit soon-to-be-stud RB in the making..he's young, runs hard ( who knew?! ) I've been very impressed with his ability to turn things around since being dumped by Chicago...I mean, he goes to Cincy of all places, a team without its star QB and internal turmoil from a loud-mouthed WR named Ocho Cinco..and Benson STILL manages to produce! kudos, great job by him!

remember, this is a cheap organization..they're saving money with every Cincy win,because they continue to drop down in draft position, thus saving $$ on signing bonuses..but they have no need to draft a RB , especially since their last few years have been terrible in terms of finding quality depth at the position, via the draft...Benson is that starting RB they've been looking for!

 

[Balance]

Seahawks need a Crabtree, DT, and FS. I hope they don't even draft a RB

Two Seahawks homers in agreement here.

Don't count out Detroit taking Crabtree. You know how they love to draft WR's in the first round. Even with Millen gone, you have to suspect they might be tempted to take Crabtree then trade him.

this poor attempt at humor has long since run its course.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

I doubt Cincy drafts a RB, Benson got better as the season wore on, he's there to stay..he's a legit soon-to-be-stud RB in the making..he's young, runs hard ( who knew?! ) I've been very impressed with his ability to turn things around since being dumped by Chicago...I mean, he goes to Cincy of all places, a team without its star QB and internal turmoil from a loud-mouthed WR named Ocho Cinco..and Benson STILL manages to produce! kudos, great job by him!

remember, this is a cheap organization..they're saving money with every Cincy win,because they continue to drop down in draft position, thus saving $$ on signing bonuses..but they have no need to draft a RB , especially since their last few years have been terrible in terms of finding quality depth at the position, via the draft...Benson is that starting RB they've been looking for!

I don't think the Benson success will continue but I do think Cinci will roll with Benson in 2009.

 

[MAC_32]

I'd rather the Browns not draft a RB in the 2nd, it's possible though.

We're not drafting one in the first though, we're drafting the best defensive player available. I'm looking in the direction of Orakpo, Jenkins, Rey, and Curry.

 

[Chachi]

So, where are some of the top RB's going to land? Which teams are going to invest a high pick on a RB in 2009? 1. Seattle -- J. Jones/M. Morris (FA)2. Arizona -- Hightower/Arrington (FA)3. Cincy -- Benson4. Cleveland -- Lewis/Harrison5. NE -- Maroney/Morris/BJE/Faulk/Jordan (FA)6. Indy -- Addai/Rhodes (FA)7. Denver -- Torain/Hillis/Young8. TB -- Graham/Dunn9. NYJ -- T. Jones/WashingtonI think most every other team has clear-cut starters and/or depth. Even some of the ones above are questionable (Indy, NYJ, Cleveland). Also, there's a good chance that one of Jacobs/Ward ends up with one of these teams in a starting role. Of the ones listed, the only ones I see where a rookie could come in and get the job right away are:SeattleArizonaCincyNEDenverSo where are the top RB's in the 2009 rookie class gonna go? Which ones will have a chance to start from day 1 (if any)?

I agree with your list, all of the teams as possibilities. It's hard to listen to some of the responses in this thread about what teams will for positive not draft a RB especially when saying Benson is a stud and Duckett is going to have a huge role.Anyhow, I agree with all the teams you have up there and would also put these teams in the mix to draft a RB high (first 3 rounds)Rams - Jackson is not dependable and the backups are not up to snuff. Won't spend a 1st obviously but maybe a 2nd/3rdChiefs - LJ may force his way out of KC, I don't see a first rounder because they pick so high but maybe in round 2 or 3Saints - I could see them taking a RB in round 1,2 or 3 (I will get bashed for this comment, heads up I like Bush)Packers - I could see round 1,2 or 3 alsoJaguars - I could see round 2 or 3Eagles - I could see round 1,2 or 3Chargers - I could see round 1,2 or 3Before I get bashed on some of these teams like the Chargers, Eagles, Packers and Saints I am not saying it's a done deal by any stretch but if a player like Beanie Wells is available I wouldn't be surprised to see him go to any of these teams.

 

[Zot]

generally its teams that look like they dont have a RB need that will draft a rB.... which will complicate things even more!

We've seen that happen so many times. There's always some team that drafts by "best player available regardless of position" that has some RB high on their boards in round 1 and grabs him even though they already have an RB. I remember the Bills drafting McGahee when they had Travis Henry, and now they have neither and feature Lynch, and even Lynch is getting pushed by Fred Jackson. Or how about the Saints drafted Reggie Bush when they had Deuce? The Saints taking Deuce even though they had Ricky Williams? The Steelers taking Mendenhall? The Chiefs taking Larry Johnson even though they had Priest Holmes?

 

[Chachi]

generally its teams that look like they dont have a RB need that will draft a rB.... which will complicate things even more!

We've seen that happen so many times. There's always some team that drafts by "best player available regardless of position" that has some RB high on their boards in round 1 and grabs him even though they already have an RB. I remember the Bills drafting McGahee when they had Travis Henry, and now they have neither and feature Lynch, and even Lynch is getting pushed by Fred Jackson. Or how about the Saints drafted Reggie Bush when they had Deuce? The Saints taking Deuce even though they had Ricky Williams? The Steelers taking Mendenhall? The Chiefs taking Larry Johnson even though they had Priest Holmes?

Excellent post and examples. Yet someone here said Cincy won't touch a RB because they got Cedric Benson???

 

[gianmarco]

generally its teams that look like they dont have a RB need that will draft a rB.... which will complicate things even more!

We've seen that happen so many times. There's always some team that drafts by "best player available regardless of position" that has some RB high on their boards in round 1 and grabs him even though they already have an RB. I remember the Bills drafting McGahee when they had Travis Henry, and now they have neither and feature Lynch, and even Lynch is getting pushed by Fred Jackson. Or how about the Saints drafted Reggie Bush when they had Deuce? The Saints taking Deuce even though they had Ricky Williams? The Steelers taking Mendenhall? The Chiefs taking Larry Johnson even though they had Priest Holmes?

Exactly. And it will happen again, I'm sure. Overall, I think there are relatively few spots that a rookie RB could land next year and get the starting job from Day 1. To add onto that, those teams have more pressing needs, IMO. We're gonna see guys like Moreno, Wells, and McCoy (if he comes out) land in less than ideal spots.

 

[Buckna]

Houston will be looking for a backup and/or complimentary RB to Slaton. Whether they draft the guy in the 2nd to 4th rounds or pick him up in FA remains to be seen.

 

[Jeff Tefertiller]

Philly and SD each have aging stud backs with the backup becoming a free agent. One or both could shock the fantasy world by taking a running back in the first round since each should be picking late in the round.

 

[thriftyrocker]

Philly and SD each have aging stud backs with the backup becoming a free agent. One or both could shock the fantasy world by taking a running back in the first round since each should be picking late in the round.

If Philly gets a skill player in the 1st , more likely they draft Pettigrew at TE. No secret they will make a play at TE whether it is KWII, Gonzo, or one of their firsts. Their other first will be BOTA. Best OT available. I could see them getting someone in the 2nd or 3rd.

 

[Riffraff]

I can see SD taking a RB.

I believe they gave up their 2nd rounder this year to take Hester last year. But they should get a 3rd or 4th round compensatory pick for the coin and production by Turner. Maybe I'm getting the years mixed up though, been a long day at work.

 

[weasel3515]

There should be surprises regarding RBs on draft day because so little is certain from the list of needs to who is the best RB. Wells will fall to the second round. Denver is the team in most of need but may not be the first to take a RB. I can see McCoy being the first one taken, or even Moreno. The Broncos will draft Greene out of Iowa because he comes from their same zone-blocking, one-cut system and always gains yards and has a nose for the end zone. Reminds me of a faster Mike Anderson. Should be a good fit. Shanahan takes a RB in the first round, not because he wants to, but because of injuries, he HAS to. Denver really needs defensive line help more though.

 

[gonzobill5]

Philly and SD each have aging stud backs with the backup becoming a free agent. One or both could shock the fantasy world by taking a running back in the first round since each should be picking late in the round.

If Philly gets a skill player in the 1st , more likely they draft Pettigrew at TE. No secret they will make a play at TE whether it is KWII, Gonzo, or one of their firsts. Their other first will be BOTA. Best OT available. I could see them getting someone in the 2nd or 3rd.

i think they take a rb high as well. buck is a FA and reid has changed his tune lately with the run/pass ratio. would love to see a guy that could share carries with westy and help him stay healthy all year. tackle is also a priority as well as TE, but they do have 2 first rounders.

 

[Bears_Man2]

Given the Broncos D is in shambles & Mike's success of plugging later round RB's into serviceable seasons, I'd be shocked to see them go RB in Round 1. They do need a fixture at RB (though they did the whole plug and play at RB with some sucxess this year). Their issues go well beyond getting that stud RB. If that D doesn't improve dramatically, they'll continue being a .500 team at best. To me, they resemble the Bengals of a couple seasons ago)

 

[32 Counter Pass]

Uummm, didn't Caddy show enough to at least merit a mention?

 

[NoFBinLA]

I doubt Cincy drafts a RB, Benson got better as the season wore on, he's there to stay..he's a legit soon-to-be-stud RB in the making..he's young, runs hard ( who knew?! ) I've been very impressed with his ability to turn things around since being dumped by Chicago...I mean, he goes to Cincy of all places, a team without its star QB and internal turmoil from a loud-mouthed WR named Ocho Cinco..and Benson STILL manages to produce! kudos, great job by him!

remember, this is a cheap organization..they're saving money with every Cincy win,because they continue to drop down in draft position, thus saving $$ on signing bonuses..but they have no need to draft a RB , especially since their last few years have been terrible in terms of finding quality depth at the position, via the draft...Benson is that starting RB they've been looking for!

I don't think the Benson success will continue but I do think Cinci will roll with Benson in 2009.

Not only that but before Cinci worries about who runs the ball, they need an offensive line worth running behind.

 

[NoFBinLA]

Uummm, didn't Caddy show enough to at least merit a mention?

Perhaps not after the second major knee injury of his young career.Reports are it isn't as bad as the first but the words 'injury prone' must be popular in TB right now.

 

[twr]

Philly and SD each have aging stud backs with the backup becoming a free agent. One or both could shock the fantasy world by taking a running back in the first round since each should be picking late in the round.

i would love to see moreno land in philly or SD

 

[TheDirtyWord]

Dark Horse Team To Take RB = Washington Redskins

 

[Chachi]

There should be surprises regarding RBs on draft day because so little is certain from the list of needs to who is the best RB. Wells will fall to the second round. Denver is the team in most of need but may not be the first to take a RB. I can see McCoy being the first one taken, or even Moreno. The Broncos will draft Greene out of Iowa because he comes from their same zone-blocking, one-cut system and always gains yards and has a nose for the end zone. Reminds me of a faster Mike Anderson. Should be a good fit. Shanahan takes a RB in the first round, not because he wants to, but because of injuries, he HAS to. Denver really needs defensive line help more though.

Sorry but this post is ridiculous on too many levels. Wells won't fall to the second round and I'd spit up chunks if McCoy went ahead of him, I could see Moreno if thats the style a team wants, Moreno is also a top flight back close to Wells caliber. Shonn Greene also will not end up going in round 1. Your prediction of Greene going round 1 and Wells round 2 funny, how about $1000 bet with the loser donating to the charity of choice?

 

[UnknownCoach]

Arizona and Denver are obviously going to add backs either by drafting one or signing/tradeing a veteran. Edge is done and Hightower is only good for short yardage. It wouldnt shock me to see Denver once again not add a big name but its what they should do given every RB they had went on IR and none of them were studs to begin with. Torrain was they only one with a chance to be good but now you got to bring in someone else. There are plenty of other teams with old backs or who could use an upgrade but those two teams are pathetic at the RB position going into next season.

I see Larry Johnson going somewhere. KC has bigger needs but could add another possible startng back if they depart with LJ.

Tampa Bay needs to add a starting back as I now believe Caddy is done (I didnt after the first knee went), Dunn has little left, and Graham isnt all that.

Holgrem leaving signals a good chance for a new starting back in Seattle although receiver is a much bigger need.

New England needs to get younger but I only consider finding a replacement for Faulk in passing situations important as he is a huge part of their success. It looks like he can still play spareingly for another year. Odds are good that Maroney will recover and return as next year's starter.

Anybody else is likely just upgradeing (there are always lots of teams who would upgrade by adding a first rounder), adding depth, or thinking a year down the road.

 

[weasel3515]

There should be surprises regarding RBs on draft day because so little is certain from the list of needs to who is the best RB. Wells will fall to the second round. Denver is the team in most of need but may not be the first to take a RB. I can see McCoy being the first one taken, or even Moreno. The Broncos will draft Greene out of Iowa because he comes from their same zone-blocking, one-cut system and always gains yards and has a nose for the end zone. Reminds me of a faster Mike Anderson. Should be a good fit. Shanahan takes a RB in the first round, not because he wants to, but because of injuries, he HAS to. Denver really needs defensive line help more though.

Sorry but this post is ridiculous on too many levels. Wells won't fall to the second round and I'd spit up chunks if McCoy went ahead of him, I could see Moreno if thats the style a team wants, Moreno is also a top flight back close to Wells caliber. Shonn Greene also will not end up going in round 1. Your prediction of Greene going round 1 and Wells round 2 funny, how about $1000 bet with the loser donating to the charity of choice?

Considering how the NFL respects it's farm teams of USC, tOSU, etc., it is probably impossible Greene goes above Wells. But look down the road from now...and I predict Greene will be the better back as he already is right now.

 

[David Yudkin]

I can see SD taking a RB. I believe they gave up their 2nd rounder this year to take Hester last year. But they should get a 3rd or 4th round compensatory pick for the coin and production by Turner. Maybe I'm getting the years mixed up though, been a long day at work.

SD traded their second round pick to NE.

 

[Banger]

Given that the Cowboys, Titans and Steelers unexpectedly took 1st round RB's this year I think any team can take a RB. It all depends on value and how they rate the players.

 

[Traders2001]

Uummm, didn't Caddy show enough to at least merit a mention?

Caddy's career is probably over with the injury to his knee last Sunday.

 

[Traders2001]

Dont forget that there will be some RB available via transaction .

I see a Michael Bush that would be very interesting to try to acquire via a trade , Ward ( a little old ) but a free agent .

I personally think Bush is more interesting then any of the RB coming out this year .

 

[Banger]

Dont forget that there will be some RB available via transaction .I see a Michael Bush that would be very interesting to try to acquire via a trade , Ward ( a little old ) but a free agent .I personally think Bush is more interesting then any of the RB coming out this year .

Yup. The Chargers tried to snag him before the deadline and will probably try again. He's a good Rb on a team deep in RB's.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

Teams that need a long term starter:

Seattle - Jones/Morris not the answer. Maybe a 2nd round pick, probably not 4th overall

New England - have an extra 2nd rounder. Maroney maybe gets another shot though. And to Yuds point they have a big stable right now

Cleveland - Jamal is not the long term answer

Cincy - wouldnt be surprised to see Benson back

Denver - what a mess

Tampa - caddy hurt (again), graham/dunn not an anwser - need a QB more though

Teams Looking to add depth:

San Diego - LT, Hester sproles is an UFA

Detroit - Kevin Smith and thats it

Washington - Portis/Betts

Arizona - I dont think Hightower is the answer

 

[MAC_32]

Dont forget that there will be some RB available via transaction .I see a Michael Bush that would be very interesting to try to acquire via a trade , Ward ( a little old ) but a free agent .I personally think Bush is more interesting then any of the RB coming out this year .

I don't think Bush is going anywhere, Fargas should be a cap casualty which will open the door for Bush to be the compliment to Run DMC in 09.

 

[David Yudkin]

Fargas should be a cap casualty.

I'm many degrees removed from anything that goes on in Oakland, but Fargas signed a new deal earlier in 2008. If they cut him, they would have paid him $6.65 million to play one season (which seems high). He's due $2.5 million in 2009 and $1.5 million in 2010. Not sure that he's paid so much that he would require getting cut. At the very least it seems like they could trade him if they felt they had better options or enough depth . . .

 

[belljr]

At the same time, I know you're much more familiar with the team workings of the Patriots so if you really think they'll ignore a RB in the draft completely, I'll trust what you say about it.

The Pats are notorious for going all over the place on draft day and trying to figure out their tendancies can be maddening. I have heard some talk that their likely draft strategy will be secondary help, linebacker help, and another offensive lineman. Next after that was TE and RB. That's what I've heard listed as needs in order . . . but what they will actually do is a crapshoot.As for RB, the mystery known as Maroney is still around, and who knows if he can get his act together (I would vote no) and be a contributor.

Didn't BJGE fill in decently in his time? Is he in the Doghouse? I don't see why they don't give him some opportunity to share the load going forward.

 

[David Yudkin]

At the same time, I know you're much more familiar with the team workings of the Patriots so if you really think they'll ignore a RB in the draft completely, I'll trust what you say about it.

The Pats are notorious for going all over the place on draft day and trying to figure out their tendancies can be maddening. I have heard some talk that their likely draft strategy will be secondary help, linebacker help, and another offensive lineman. Next after that was TE and RB. That's what I've heard listed as needs in order . . . but what they will actually do is a crapshoot.As for RB, the mystery known as Maroney is still around, and who knows if he can get his act together (I would vote no) and be a contributor.

Didn't BJGE fill in decently in his time? Is he in the Doghouse? I don't see why they don't give him some opportunity to share the load going forward.

He did ok, but his ypc was 3.7. Faulk's was 6.1. Morris' was 4.7. Jordan's was 4.5. BJGE wasn't even active after the other guys came back. I think he was a stop gap measure. That being said, I still don't see the Pats going hog wild to dradt a first day running back even with 2 second round picks this year.

 

[Mr Capicollo]

generally its teams that look like they dont have a RB need that will draft a rB.... which will complicate things even more!

We've seen that happen so many times. There's always some team that drafts by "best player available regardless of position" that has some RB high on their boards in round 1 and grabs him even though they already have an RB. I remember the Bills drafting McGahee when they had Travis Henry, and now they have neither and feature Lynch, and even Lynch is getting pushed by Fred Jackson. Or how about the Saints drafted Reggie Bush when they had Deuce? The Saints taking Deuce even though they had Ricky Williams? The Steelers taking Mendenhall? The Chiefs taking Larry Johnson even though they had Priest Holmes?

This looks like a deep RB draft to me, somewhat similar to last year's draft with WR's. I could see the Redskins drafting a RB early on the second day as Betts doesn't look like he's still got that burst when he gets carries, and Portis has got a LOT of mileage on him. They could pick up a guy like Stafon Johnson.

 

[JohnnyU]

Dont forget that there will be some RB available via transaction .I see a Michael Bush that would be very interesting to try to acquire via a trade , Ward ( a little old ) but a free agent .I personally think Bush is more interesting then any of the RB coming out this year .

I don't think Bush is going anywhere, Fargas should be a cap casualty which will open the door for Bush to be the compliment to Run DMC in 09.

Maybe Run DMC should be the compliment.

 

[Whiplash Inc.]

Dont forget that there will be some RB available via transaction .I see a Michael Bush that would be very interesting to try to acquire via a trade , Ward ( a little old ) but a free agent .I personally think Bush is more interesting then any of the RB coming out this year .

I don't think Bush is going anywhere, Fargas should be a cap casualty which will open the door for Bush to be the compliment to Run DMC in 09.

He's relatively cheap and capable of starting. He's also a veteran leader that team mates respect. They'd be foolish to trade him or to mess with the depth at one of our strongest positions.

 

[MAC_32]

Fargas is a replacement level talent. Why pay a replacement level injury prone guy > $1 mil when you can draft a guy on day 2 and have him compete with Rankin for the #3 job. Not only is Bush cheaper, but he offers upside at the position too.

 

[UnknownCoach]

Fargas should be a cap casualty.

I'm many degrees removed from anything that goes on in Oakland, but Fargas signed a new deal earlier in 2008. If they cut him, they would have paid him $6.65 million to play one season (which seems high). He's due $2.5 million in 2009 and $1.5 million in 2010. Not sure that he's paid so much that he would require getting cut. At the very least it seems like they could trade him if they felt they had better options or enough depth . . .

Consider the 6.65m is also a reward for 2007 when he was still under a peanut contract. They can afford to keep him for 2.5 million but they dont need him. Cutting Fargas means a little more FA money if its needed for a big signing. I wont predict that. I could also see Fargas being traded to a team who loses their starter to injury after the draft if Bell isnt traded for picks. Davis will avoid releasing Fargas early at least until Denver aquires a stud. The fact they looked for a buyer before the deadline shows Davis is interested in dealing one. Like most fans, I'd much rather see Fargas go than Bell but teams will be more interested in Bell. If no deal is made, they will both probably return.

 

[Buckna]

James expecting to leave Cardinals

If Edge is done in Arizona, you've got to figure the Card's will be looking at a RB. The question is, does it matter considering they are mostly a pass-happy offense?