2009 Fantasy Football Running Backs

A look at the top RBs in Fantasy Football 2009

In the past few years, the NFL has moved towards a running back by committee system. Many teams are splitting time in the backfield in order to keep backs fresh and help minimize injuries.

Running backs are considered the top position in fantasy football and with most leagues starting three running backs, it is important to make wise choices. Yahoo Sports has added a new wrinkle to their standard point system in points per reception. PPR leagues reward backs that catch passes as well as run the football. This will change the order of draft boards, and it is important to know which leagues are using PPR.

Rankings are based on 1 point for every 10 yards rushing and receiving, and 6 points for a TD. PPR is not a determinant in these rankings but must be considered in leagues that offer it in the scoring system.

Running Preseason Ranks

The running backs are the fantasy gold of most leagues. It is very important to land top running back talent plus depth to insure top finishing in fantasy leagues. Often, I witness an owner drafting a powerful line-up but lacking in depth. In other cases, owners draft all low grade talent and struggle. I recommend a hybrid running back team that hits with a top ten running back, but has quality depth. I also recommend a handcuff philosophy that incorporates a two-back tandem. If one back goes down, the other back is more valuable.

The Gold Standard of Running backs:

• Adrian Peterson: This running back is the top running back in 2009. He is guaranteed to jump out of the gates the first six weeks. It is important to get Chester Taylor as a cuff.

• Maurice Jones-Drew: Easy schedule. Not much wear and tear.

• Matt Forte: Can do it all and will carry the load.

• Michael Turner: Is the main back. He may only get 300 carries this year. Norwood is a good handcuff.

• DeAngelo Williams: He single-handedly won fantasy championships for owners in 2009.

The Silver Standard:

• LaDainian Tomlinson: This is the year to secure L.T. on the cheap. He has some years left.

• Frank Gore: The 49ers have an easy schedule and an offensive scheme that makes sense.

• Steven Jackson: Has the same schedule as Gore. He is the only Ram’s playmaker.

• Steve Slaton: He is moving up the charts with the emergence of the Houston Texans in the fantasy world. He iss the only running back in Houston to make an impact.

• Chris Johnson: A speedy running back that will share the rock with Lendale White. I do not recommend these two for handcuffs because Lendale doesn’t show up for the tough defensive match-ups. In auctions, the combination is too expensive.

• Brian Westbrook: He is dropping off the charts into the late 2nd round and even in the 3 rd round. Owners should set their sights on him if he drops in drafts and auction price.

• Brandon Jacobs: Just think about the fantasy numbers if he played all 16 games. Ahmad Bradshaw is an excellent cuff.

• Marion Barber: Should go back to his closer role and splitting carries with Felix Jones with a little Choice in the mix. Dallas may be similar to last year’s Giants running game.

• Clinton Portis: High miles

• Ryan Grant: What’s not to like about the starting running back for Green Bay?

• Ronnie Brown: Should see an increased load at 100% health.

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The Bronze Standard:

• Kevin Smith: Detroit is bad, but he should have clear running lanes in the 4th quarter garbage time.

• Pierre Thomas: Could be a great value pick this year. Reggie Bush has a hard time staying on the field.

• Darren McFadden: I don’t like Oakland, but I love McFadden’s explosiveness. Like Kevin Smith, McFadden should have some open running lanes in the 4th quarter garbage time.

• Thomas Jones: Advertised as a leading bust candidate, but remains at the 20 spot.

• Knowshon Moreno: It is quantity not quality in Denver. “No show” Moreno has to get in camp.

• Marshawn Lynch: Would be in the top 15 if not for the suspension. I do not like the Bills offensive line.

• Larry Johnson: Old running backs continue to drop in the standings. Even the backs who are in a one-back rotation.

• Joseph Addai: One bad year. Could be a steal in drafts if his injury is healed.

• Reggie Bush: Hopefully not damaged goods in 2009.

• Derrick Ward: Listed deep in the depth chart behind Earnest Graham. Cadillac is back in the mix.

• Jonathan Stewart: Good for 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns.

• Chris Wells: Beanie is my sleeper for 2009. Health is the only worry.

• Willie Parker: He is the starter.

The Tin Standard:

• Felix Jones: Timeshare with Barber, but still has value.

• Lendale White: Should be ok this year at the goal line.

• Jamal Lewis: Solo gig.

• Cedric Bensen: Solo gig.

• Julius Jones: Solo gig.

• Donald Brown: Great handcuff of Addai.

• Earnest Graham: At the top of the Tampa running back depth chart in early August.

• Ray Rice: Will beat out McGahee.

• Willis McGahee: Will share carries with Rice.

• Darren Sproles: Special teams, 3rd down duty, an occasional spell for L.T.

• Rashard Mendenhall: Has not done much yet.

Stay away warning: The herd of New England Patriots running backs.

By Marty Beil
ProFootball-fans.com Fantasy Football Correspondent